Research Progress on the Hepatoprotective Effect of Schisandra chinensis （Turcz.）Baill. and Related Products

Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. is a medicinal and edible herb, rich in bioactive compounds such as lignans and polysaccharides, and possesses excellent hepatoprotective, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Schisandra is not only used as a functional ingredient in food but also widely applied in traditional Chinese medicine formulations. In recent years, the active ingredients of Schisandra and its products have been applied more frequently in the treatment of liver diseases. However, the fundamental medicinal substances and mechanisms of action remain insufficiently summarized. This article reviews the protective effects of Schisandra on alcoholic, metabolic-related (non-alcoholic) fatty liver disease, drug-induced liver injury, carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) toxicity, and viral liver damage through mechanisms such as regulating lipid metabolism, enhancing antioxidant capacity, inhibiting inflammation, and modulating gut microbiota. Additionally, the review summarizes the inhibitory effects of Schisandra derived bioactive compounds and products on liver cancer, as well as the mechanisms involved, and to expand its usage in the fields of medicine and health.