Schisandra Extract

Schisandra Extract: Nature’s Adaptogenic Powerhouse | Premium Supplier Guide

1. What is Schisandra Extract?

Schisandra extract is a potent bioactive concentrate derived from the dried berries of Schisandra chinensis (Chinese Magnolia Vine) or Schisandra sphenanthera. Revered for millennia in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a premier adaptogen, it contains a unique complex of dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans—primarily schisandrin, deoxyschisandrin, γ-schisandrin, schisantherin A/B, and gomisins. These lignans are responsible for its characteristic “five flavors” (sweet, sour, salty, pungent, bitter) and its diverse physiological effects, particularly supporting hepatic function, cognitive performance, stress resilience, and cellular antioxidant defense.

2. Product Source, Chemical Properties & Identifiers

• Botanical Source: Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. berries.

• Primary Active Constituents: Schisandra Lignans (≥1.5% – 10%+, standardized by HPLC).

• Key Chemical Properties:

  • Appearance: Fine reddish-brown to brown powder.

  • Solubility: Soluble in ethanol, methanol; slightly soluble in water; insoluble in non-polar solvents.

  • Stability: Sensitive to light, heat, and oxidation. Requires cool, dry storage.

• CAS: 7432-28-2 (Schisandra extract); Specific lignans have individual CAS (e.g., Schisandrin: 61281-37-6).

• MF: Varies per compound (e.g., Schisandrin: C24H32O7).

• MW: Varies per compound (e.g., Schisandrin: 432.5 g/mol).

• EINECS: 284-118-3 (Schisandra chinensis extract).

3. What is the Best Schisandra Extract? Key Considerations
Selecting the optimal Schisandra extract demands scrutiny across multiple parameters:

• Key Ingredient & Standardization: Premium extracts are standardized to Schisandra Lignans content (e.g., 5%, 9%, or higher). Lignan profile consistency is critical for efficacy. Look for HPLC-verified standardization.

• Efficacy & Compliance (Regulatory): Ensure compliance with target market regulations (e.g., FDA GRAS, EU Novel Food considerations, FSANZ, pharmacopoeial standards like USP/EP). Validated hepatoprotective, adaptogenic, and antioxidant effects are core.

• Origin & Cultivation: Sustainably cultivated berries from pristine regions (e.g., Northeast China, Korea) are ideal. Certifications (Organic, GACP) enhance quality assurance. Traceability to origin is crucial.

• Method of Use: Common formats include powder (encapsulated, in blends), liquid extracts (tinctures), and functional food/beverage fortification. Typical oral dosage: 250mg – 1500mg daily, often divided. Consult product label and healthcare provider.

• Target Audience: Adults seeking natural support for stress management, liver health, physical endurance, cognitive function, or general antioxidant protection. Not intended for children.

• Health Benefits (Science-Backed):

  • Hepatoprotection: Enhances liver detoxification enzymes (Phase I & II), protects hepatocytes from toxins (e.g., ethanol, CCl4), promotes regeneration.

  • Adaptogenic: Modulates HPA axis, reduces cortisol elevation under stress, improves resilience.

  • Antioxidant: Potent free radical scavenger, boosts endogenous glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD).

  • Neuroprotection: May improve cognitive function, focus, and protect against neuronal damage.

  • Physical Performance: Enhances endurance and reduces fatigue.

  • Skin Health: Topical application may improve skin barrier function and combat oxidative stress.

• Recommended Daily Intake: 500mg – 1500mg of standardized extract (e.g., 9% lignans), dependent on application and individual needs. Start lower and adjust.

• Precautions & Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated. Potential mild GI upset (heartburn, acid reflux). Contraindicated: Pregnancy, lactation. Caution: With anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs (potential interaction), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), epilepsy/seizure disorders. Consult physician before use if taking medications or have underlying conditions.

4. Premium Supplier: Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd.
Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd. stands as a vertically integrated high-tech enterprise at the forefront of plant extraction technology. For over 28 years, we have specialized in the advanced extraction, isolation, purification, and global commercialization of high-purity bioactive compounds for the chemical, materials, and life science industries.

• Core Competencies:

  • Advanced Botanical Extraction: Expertise in supercritical CO2 extraction, molecular distillation, preparative HPLC, membrane separation for unparalleled purity.

  • Broad Product Portfolio: High-grade Schisandra Extract, other standardized botanical extracts, cosmetic actives, nutraceutical ingredients (dietary supplements), pharmaceutical intermediates, natural pigments, food & beverage additives, plant-based sweeteners.

  • Global Sourcing: Importation of premium raw materials under strict quality protocols.

• Scientific & Technological Barriers:

  • Joint Innovation Labs: Collaborative R&D with 5 leading universities, driving innovation in phytochemistry and process optimization.

  • IP Portfolio: Holder of 20+ proprietary patents and a globally unique compound library.

  • Cutting-Edge QC: Investment in HPLC-DAD/ELSD/CAD, UPLC-QTOF-MS, GC-MS, ICP-MS, and 600MHz NMR ensures purity standards exceeding industry norms by 20%+. Full identity, purity, and potency verification.

• Global Reach: Trusted B2B supplier to multinational pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and manufacturers across 80+ countries in Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Experts in customized botanical ingredient solutions.

5. Comprehensive Certificate of Analysis (COA) Specifications
Our Schisandra Extract undergoes rigorous testing to meet international safety standards. Below is a summary table of key specifications:

Table: Schisandra Extract Standard COA Specifications

6. Advanced Production Workflow
Our manufacturing adheres to cGMP and integrates cutting-edge technology:

1. Sourcing & Identification: Raw berries sourced from qualified growers; authenticated via macroscopic/microscopic evaluation & TLC/HPLC fingerprinting.

2. Pre-processing: Cleaning, drying (<40°C), milling under controlled humidity.

3. Selective Extraction: Optimized ethanol/water solvent systems using dynamic counter-current extraction or pressurized low-temperature extraction (PLTE) to preserve thermolabile lignans.

4. Primary Purification: Macroporous resin adsorption chromatography for targeted lignan enrichment and removal of polysaccharides/sugars.

5. Advanced Separation: Employing preparative HPLC or high-speed counter-current chromatography (HSCCC) for isolation of specific high-purity fractions if required.

6. Concentration & Drying: Low-temperature vacuum concentration followed by spray drying (inlet/outlet temp controlled) or freeze-drying.

7. Standardization: Precise blending to achieve guaranteed lignan content (HPLC-controlled).

8. Stringent QC: Full battery of identity, purity, potency, and safety tests (as per COA above) before release.

7. Diverse Application Scenarios

• Nutraceuticals & Dietary Supplements: Capsules, tablets, softgels, powders for liver support, stress relief, energy, and antioxidant formulas.

• Functional Foods & Beverages: Fortified juices, health drinks, energy bars, confectionery.

• Cosmeceuticals: Active ingredient in anti-aging, antioxidant, and protective skincare serums, creams, lotions (topical antioxidant, collagen protection).

• Pharmaceutical Intermediates: Source of purified lignans (e.g., Schisandrin C) for drug discovery and development.

• Traditional Herbal Products: TCM formulations and granules.

8. Rigorous Quality Control 
Quality is embedded in every stage at Shaanxi Zhonghong. Our ISO 17025 accredited QC laboratory, equipped with Agilent 1290 Infinity II UPLC-DAD-QTOF, Shimadzu HPLC-ELSD/CAD, PerkinElmer ICP-MS NexION 2000, and Bruker Avance III HD 600MHz NMR, provides unparalleled analytical capability. We implement a multipronged QC strategy:

• Incoming Material Control: Strict vendor qualification, Certificate of Analysis review, and full identity/purity testing on all raw materials using compendial methods (EP, USP, ChP) and advanced spectroscopy (FTIR, NMR for structure confirmation).

• In-Process Control (IPC): Critical process parameters (CPPs – solvent ratio, temp, pressure, time) and critical quality attributes (CQAs – intermediate lignan profile, residual solvents) are monitored in real-time using PAT (Process Analytical Technology) tools like inline NIR spectroscopy and automated HPLC sampling. This ensures process consistency and enables immediate corrective actions.

• Finished Product Release: Every batch undergoes exhaustive testing per a comprehensive, validated specification (Identity by TLC/HPLC fingerprint vs. reference standard; Assay for lignan content by HPLC-UV; Purity – Residual solvents by GC-HS-FID, Heavy metals by ICP-MS; Safety – Pesticides by GC-MS/MS & LC-MS/MS, Microbiology per USP/EP; Physical tests – LOD, Ash, Bulk Density, Particle Size Distribution). Stability studies (ICH Q1A) under accelerated and long-term conditions define shelf-life and storage requirements. Our commitment to data integrity (ALCOA+ principles) and continuous method validation ensures results are reliable and defensible globally.

9. Secure Packaging & Global Logistics

• Primary Packaging: Food-grade polyethylene-lined kraft paper bags (5kg, 10kg, 25kg) or UN-certified HDPE drums (25kg, 50kg). Optional vacuum packing or nitrogen flushing for oxygen-sensitive extracts. Tamper-evident seals standard.

• Secondary Packaging: Sturdy export cartons or fiber drums.

• Labeling: Compliant with destination regulations. Includes Product Name, Batch #, MFG/EXP Date, Net Weight, Lignan Content %, COA QR Code, GMP/ISO Certifications.

• Storage: Store in a cool (<25°C), dry place (RH <60%), protected from light. -20°C long-term storage available for high-value fractions.

• Logistics: Expertise in global shipping (DDP, DAP, FOB). Documentation includes Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Certificate of Analysis, Certificate of Origin, Health Certificate (if required), MSDS. Compliant with international hazardous goods (if applicable) and customs regulations.

10. Deep Dive: Health Efficacy, Research & Industry Trends

• Mechanism of Action: Schisandra lignans exert effects via multiple pathways:

  • Hepatoprotection: Induction of Phase II detox enzymes (GST, UGT), upregulation of antioxidant genes via Nrf2 pathway, inhibition of CYP450-mediated toxin activation, stabilization of hepatocyte membranes.

  • Adaptogenic: Modulation of HPA axis, reduction of plasma cortisol and NO under stress, regulation of heat shock proteins (HSP70).

  • Antioxidant: Direct ROS scavenging, regeneration of vitamins C & E, elevation of intracellular GSH and SOD/GPx activity.

  • Neuroprotection: Reduction of glutamate excitotoxicity, inhibition of MAO-B, potential enhancement of BDNF signaling, anti-neuroinflammatory effects.

  • Anti-fatigue: Enhancement of mitochondrial function and ATP synthesis, reduction of lactic acid accumulation.

• Industry Applications & Innovation: Beyond supplements, research explores Schisandra in:

  • Hepatology: Adjunctive therapy in NAFLD, chemical hepatotoxicity, viral hepatitis.

  • Oncology: Chemopreventive potential via antioxidant/anti-inflammatory pathways; adjunct to reduce chemotherapy side effects (e.g., cisplatin nephrotoxicity).

  • Neurodegenerative Diseases: Potential in Alzheimer’s (Aβ aggregation inhibition) and Parkinson’s (dopaminergic protection).

  • Metabolic Health: Improving insulin sensitivity, lipid profile modulation.

  • Advanced Delivery Systems: Liposomal encapsulation, nanoemulsions, phytosome complexes (e.g., Schisandra Phytosome®) to enhance bioavailability of hydrophobic lignans.

• Research Frontiers & Challenges:

  • Frontiers: Elucidating specific receptor targets of individual lignans; large-scale human clinical trials for specific indications (e.g., cognitive decline, NAFLD); exploring synergistic effects in multi-botanical formulations; microbiome interactions.

  • Challenges: Standardization complexities due to diverse lignan profiles; optimizing bioavailability of high-MW lignans; securing sustainable wildcrafting/cultivation; navigating complex global regulatory landscapes for health claims; cost-effective production of ultra-high purity (>98%) single lignans.

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: What makes your Schisandra Extract superior? A: Our extract boasts industry-leading purity (>99.5% solvent-free, minimal impurities), guaranteed high lignan standardization (HPLC-verified), absence of harmful residues (full compliance testing), and is produced under strict cGMP using state-of-the-art extraction technology (PLTE, HSCCC) and QC (HPLC-MS, NMR).

• Q: Is Schisandra Extract safe? A: Generally safe for adults at recommended dosages. Possible mild GI upset. Contraindicated in pregnancy/lactation. Consult a doctor if taking anticoagulants, have GERD, epilepsy, or underlying health conditions. See Precautions (Section 3).

• Q: What is the recommended daily dosage? A: Typically 500mg – 1500mg daily of a standardized extract (e.g., 9% lignans), often divided. Start at the lower end. Follow product label or healthcare provider advice.

• Q: How long does it take to see benefits? A: Effects like stress resilience may be noticeable within weeks. Liver protective or significant cognitive benefits may require consistent use over several months.

• Q: Can it be used topically? A: Yes, Schisandra extract is valued in cosmetics for its antioxidant and protective properties, helping combat skin aging and environmental damage.

• Q: Does it interact with medications? A: Potential interaction with blood thinners (warfarin, clopidogrel) and drugs metabolized by CYP3A4/CYP2C9 enzymes. Consult your physician.

• Q: Is it Organic or Non-GMO? A: We offer both conventional and certified organic (e.g., USDA, EU) Schisandra Extract. All are Non-GMO. Specify your requirement.

12. Where to Buy & Request Samples
Source premium, certified Schisandra Extract directly from the manufacturer: Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd.

• Contact for Quotes & Customization: liaodaohai@gmail.com

• Explore Our Portfolio: www.aiherba.com

• Request Your Free Sample: Email us (liaodaohai@gmail.com) with your company details, intended use, and desired specification (e.g., Lignan %). Experience the Zhonghong quality difference.

13. Conclusion
Schisandra extract, standardized for its bioactive lignans, represents a scientifically validated adaptogen with significant benefits for liver health, stress management, cognitive function, and antioxidant defense. Choosing a high-quality extract is paramount for efficacy and safety. Shaanxi Zhonghong Investment Technology Co., Ltd., with its 28-year legacy, cutting-edge extraction and analytical technology, unwavering commitment to cGMP quality, and global supply chain expertise, stands as a trusted partner for premium Schisandra Extract. We provide not just an ingredient, but a commitment to purity, potency, and scientific rigor for demanding nutraceutical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications.

14. References

1. Panossian, A., & Wikman, G. (2008). Pharmacology of Schisandra chinensis Bail.: An overview of Russian research and uses in medicine. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 118(2), 183-212. (Mechanisms, Adaptogenic Effects)

2. Lu, Y., & Chen, D. F. (2009). Analysis of Schisandra chinensis and Schisandra sphenanthera. Journal of Chromatography A, 1216(11), 1980-1990. (Analytical Methods, Lignan Profiles)

3. Nowak, A., Zakłos-Szyda, M., Błasiak, J., Nowak, A., Zhang, Z., & Zhang, B. (2019). Potential of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. in Human Health and Nutrition: A Review. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 31(1), 1-24. (Comprehensive Health Benefits Review)

4. EMA. (2016). Assessment report on Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., fructus. European Medicines Agency. (Regulatory Perspective, Traditional Uses)

5. USP-NF. (2023). United States Pharmacopeia and National Formulary. (General Quality Standards)

6. ICH Q7. Good Manufacturing Practice Guide for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients. (GMP Standards)

7. ICH Q1A(R2). Stability Testing of New Drug Substances and Products. (Stability Guidelines)

8. Shaanxi Zhonghong Internal Research Data & Process Validation Reports. (Proprietary Extraction & QC Data – Available under NDA).