What does this rating mean?
Schisandra (scientific name Schisandra chinensis) is a type of vine native to China and Russia. It produces red berries, also known as “five flavour berries” which are used in alternative medicine.
It is not known how schisandra might help depression.
There is no scientific evidence on schisandra for the treatment of depression.
Dietary and herbal supplements, including schisandra, may have negative interactions with prescribed medications or other supplements. They should always be taken under the supervision of a health care professional.
Schisandra supplements can be purchased from health food shops and alternative medicine providers.
Given the lack of evidence on schisandra, it cannot be recommended as a treatment for depression.
Last updated and reviewed: 27 November 2023
These treatments are very useful. They are strongly supported as effective by scientific evidence.
These treatments are useful. They are supported by scientific evidence as effective, but the evidence is not as strong.
These treatments are promising and may be useful. They have some evidence to support them, but more evidence is needed to be sure they work.
