Comprehensive insights into the distribution, physicochemical characteristics, health benefits, and formulation applications of lignans from Schisandra chinensis: a review of advances in biosynthesis and bioactivity.

Schisandra chinensis is a traditional medicinal plant valued for its diverse bioactive lignans and broad pharmacological potential. This review summarises recent advances in the research on the distribution, biosynthesis, physicochemical characteristics, pharmacological effects, and pharmaceutical applications of Schisandra lignans. Available studies indicate that these lignans are unevenly distributed among different tissues, with seeds and fruit pulp serving as the major sites of accumulation. Their physicochemical properties, including solubility, stability, and antioxidant activity, strongly influence extraction, processing performance, release behaviour, and oral bioavailability. In addition, Schisandra lignans exhibit multiple biological activities, particularly antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects, highlighting their therapeutic relevance. By integrating current findings on tissue-specific distribution, chemical features, biological functions, and formulation strategies, this review offers a systematic reference for future research and supports the rational development and pharmaceutical utilisation of Schisandra lignans.