Salvia Miltiorrhiza: Complete Medicinal Profile
Salvia miltiorrhiza, also known as Chinese sage or Danshen, is a perennial plant native to China, belonging to the Lamiaceae family and characterized by its red root and fragrant leaves.
This plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, valued for its medicinal properties, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular-protective effects.
The health benefits of Salvia miltiorrhiza include improved cardiovascular function, enhanced cognitive function, and potential anti-anxiety and anti-depressive effects, making it a popular herbal remedy for heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.
Salvia miltiorrhiza can be prepared in various herbal forms, including dried root, extract, capsule, and tea, making it easily accessible for those seeking its medicinal benefits.
Study of the Day
According to Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica, Salvia miltiorrhiza has medicinal purposes that may be related to its waters-soluble constituents, which are important for evaluating the quality of the medicine.
This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Salvia miltiorrhiza.
Table of Contents
Uses and Benefits
Salvia miltiorrhiza is used to alleviate a range of health issues, including cardiovascular problems, such as high blood pressure and heart failure, as well as reducing inflammation and improving circulation.
It has been traditionally used to treat conditions like arrhythmia, thrombosis, and angina, and has also been shown to have beneficial effects on cognitive function and memory.
Studies have found that Salvia miltiorrhiza can help to lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood sugar levels, and alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats.
Additionally, it has been used to treat various other conditions, including anxiety, depression, and digestive issues, making it a versatile and valuable medicinal plant.
The health benefits of Salvia miltiorrhiza are listed below.
- Improved heart health: Salvia miltiorrhiza, also known as danshen, is often used to improve heart health by reducing blood pressure, preventing platelet aggregation, and improving blood flow to the heart.
- Antioxidant properties: The plant contains various antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress, which can contribute to aging, inflammation, and diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
- Neuroprotective effects: Salvia miltiorrhiza has been shown to have neuroprotective effects, which may help prevent or slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as alzheimer's and parkinson's.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: The plant has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate conditions such as arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory diseases.
- Cardiac arrhythmia prevention: Salvia miltiorrhiza has been used to prevent and treat cardiac arrhythmias by regulating heart rhythm and improving cardiac function.
- Antimicrobial properties: The plant has antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infections and treat conditions such as sore throats, bronchitis, and skin infections.
- Anticancer properties: Salvia miltiorrhiza has been shown to have anticancer properties, which may help prevent or slow the growth of cancer cells.
Here are the best health benefits of Salvia miltiorrhiza.
Actions
Salvia miltiorrhiza has shown to possess a wide range of therapeutic actions, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory properties, which primarily affect the cardiovascular system by improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.
Its actions as a cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective agent also impact the cardiovascular, nervous, and hepatic systems, respectively.
Additionally, it exhibits antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, influencing the immune and integumentary systems.
Furthermore, its actions as an anti-hypertensive, anti-arrhythmic, and anti-oxidant agent also benefit the cardiovascular system, while its neurostimulant and nootropic properties affect the nervous system.
The therapeutic actions of Salvia miltiorrhiza are listed below.
- Cardiotonic: Stimulates the heart to improve its function and increase blood circulation
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and cell damage
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling and pain by inhibiting the production of inflammatory chemicals
- Antimicrobial: Inhibits the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi
- Cardioprotective: Protects the heart from damage caused by ischemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation
- Hypotensive: Helps to lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow
- Neuroprotective: Protects the brain and nervous system from damage caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, and other factors
Constituents
Salvia miltiorrhiza has been found to contain a rich array of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids such as salvianolic acids and 3,4-DHPEA-EGCG, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant is also rich in phenolic acids like rosmarinic acid, which has been shown to have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.
Additionally, Salvia miltiorrhiza contains tannins, including gallocatechin and epicatechin, which have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as well as lignans like sesamin, which have been reported to have antioxidant and anti-cancer effects.
Furthermore, the plant also contains iridoids, including salvianolide, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The bioactive constituents of Salvia miltiorrhiza are listed below.
- Tanshinone i: A phenolic compound with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Salvianolic acid b: A water-soluble polyphenol with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Cryptotanshinone: A phenolic compound with potential anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
- Tanshinone iia: A phenolic compound with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Salvianolate: A phenolic compound with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Rosmarinic acid: A hydroxycinnamic acid ester with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Danshensu: A water-soluble compound with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Parts
The most commonly used parts of Salvia miltiorrhiza are its roots, leaves, and flowers, which are valued for their medicinal properties.
The roots, known as Danshen, are primarily used to treat cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure and heart failure, and are also used to alleviate symptoms of angina and arrhythmia.
The leaves and flowers of Salvia miltiorrhiza are used to treat a range of health conditions, including digestive issues, such as diarrhea and constipation, as well as respiratory problems, such as bronchitis and asthma.
Additionally, the leaves and flowers are also used to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, and exhibit antioxidant properties.
The following table displays the most used parts of of Salvia miltiorrhiza and examples of ailments they help cure.
| Parts | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Root | Cardiac failure, angina, hypertension |
| Leaves | Neuroprotection, stroke prevention, cerebral ischemia |
| Flowers | Menstrual disorders, infertility, hysteria |
Preparations
Salvia miltiorrhiza most common herbal preparations are infusions, decoctions, tinctures, and capsules.
These preparations are used to promote cardiovascular health, improve blood circulation, and reduce inflammation, with examples including treating angina pectoris, coronary heart disease, and hypertension through the use of standardized extracts in capsule form.
Infusions are often used to alleviate symptoms of menopausal hot flashes, while decoctions are prepared as a tea to support digestive health and alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders such as gastritis and diarrhea.
Additionally, tinctures are used to treat conditions such as arrhythmia, thrombophlebitis, and varicose veins due to their vasodilatory and anticoagulant properties.
The herbal preparations of Salvia miltiorrhiza are listed below.
- Salvia miltiorrhiza tincture: A concentrated liquid extract of salvia miltiorrhiza root, typically used to promote cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.
- Salvia miltiorrhiza infusion: A tea made by steeping the dried root of salvia miltiorrhiza in hot water, often used to support heart health and alleviate symptoms of anxiety.
- Salvia miltiorrhiza capsules: Standardized capsules containing a measured amount of salvia miltiorrhiza extract, used to provide a convenient and controlled dose of the herb.
- Salvia miltiorrhiza decoction: A strong liquid extract made by simmering the root of salvia miltiorrhiza in water, often used to treat digestive issues and promote circulation.
- Salvia miltiorrhiza topical cream: A cream or ointment infused with salvia miltiorrhiza extract, applied topically to alleviate pain, inflammation, and promote wound healing.
- Salvia miltiorrhiza extract powder: A powdered form of salvia miltiorrhiza extract, often used as a dietary supplement to support heart health and reduce oxidative stress.
- Salvia miltiorrhiza infused oil: A carrier oil infused with the extract of salvia miltiorrhiza, used in aromatherapy and topical applications to promote relaxation and reduce inflammation.
Side Effects
Salvia miltiorrhiza side effects are numerous and can vary depending on the individual, but those most likely to experience these side effects are individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, women in their reproductive years, and individuals taking certain medications such as anticoagulants, beta blockers, and certain antidepressants.
The side effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza may include dizziness, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and increased heart rate, as well as more severe side effects like seizures, coma, and even death in rare cases.
Additionally, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as hives, itching, and difficulty breathing, while others may experience interactions with other herbal supplements or medications, leading to further complications.
Precautions should be taken to avoid consuming Salvia miltiorrhiza if you have a history of heart problems, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking certain medications, as these individuals are more susceptible to experiencing severe side effects.
The possible side effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza are listed below.
- Abdominal pain: Abdominal pain is a common side effect of salvia miltiorrhiza, which may be caused by its high tanshinone content.
- Allergic reactions: Allergic reactions to salvia miltiorrhiza may include symptoms such as hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.
- Bleeding risks: Salvia miltiorrhiza may increase the risk of bleeding in some individuals, particularly those taking anticoagulant medications.
- Dizziness and lightheadedness: Dizziness and lightheadedness are common side effects of salvia miltiorrhiza, which may be caused by its vasodilatory properties.
- Gastrointestinal disturbances: Gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, may occur as side effects of salvia miltiorrhiza.
- Hypotension: Salvia miltiorrhiza may cause a drop in blood pressure, particularly in individuals taking medications that lower blood pressure.
- Liver damage: Prolonged use of salvia miltiorrhiza may cause liver damage in some individuals, particularly those with pre-existing liver conditions.