Herbal Information for Salvia Root (Dan Shen) in Cut Form
What is Dan Shen - Salvia Root In TCM?
Dan Shen, also known as Salvia Miltiorrhiza, is a traditional Chinese herb commonly referred to as "red sage." It has a long history of use in Chinese medicine for its various health benefits and is recognized for its bright red roots. Hence the common name of Chinese Red Root.
Cardiovascular Health
Dan Shen is widely known for its positive impact on cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that it can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and improve blood circulation, making it beneficial for heart health.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Dan Shen contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. It is often used to relieve conditions such as arthritis and joint pain.
Liver Support:
The herb is believed to have liver-protective effects and can help promote liver detoxification. It is often used to support liver function and treat liver-related conditions.
Skin Health:
The herb's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also extend to improving skin health. It can help reduce inflammation, promote healing, and prevent skin aging, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products.
Stress Relief:
Dan Shen is known for its calming effects on the nervous system, making it a valuable herb for managing stress and anxiety. It can help promote relaxation and improve overall mental well-being.
Digestive Support:
Some studies suggest that Dan Shen can help improve digestive function by promoting the production of digestive enzymes and reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. It may aid in digestion and alleviate symptoms of indigestion.
Chemical Composition and Active Ingredients
Phytochemical Profile
Dan Shen is rich in bioactive compounds, with the primary active constituents being tanshinones and salvianolic acids. These compounds are noted for their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective properties.
Key Active Components
- Tanshinone IIA: A major diterpenoid quinone, known for its anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects.
- Salvianolic Acid B: A powerful antioxidant that provides protection against oxidative stress and cardiovascular diseases.
Differences in Fresh and Dried Forms
Fresh Dan Shen contains higher levels of volatile oils, whereas dried roots have a more concentrated profile of its primary active constituents, making the dried form more commonly used in traditional preparations.
Traditional Uses of Dan Shen
Historical Significance in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Dan Shen has been a cornerstone in TCM for over two millennia. It has been traditionally used to invigorate the blood, remove blood stasis, and alleviate pain, particularly in conditions associated with cardiovascular health and menstrual disorders.
Applications in Traditional Remedies
In traditional practices, Dan Shen is often included in formulations aimed at benefiting issues such as angina, coronary artery disease, and menstrual irregularities. It is also used to enhance cognitive function and liver health.
Evolution of Medicinal Uses
Over time, the use of Dan Shen has expanded beyond TCM to include a broader range of applications in modern herbal medicine, particularly for its cardiovascular and neuroprotective benefits.
Modern Health Benefits of Dan Shen
Cardiovascular Health
Dan Shen is renowned for its cardiovascular benefits. It helps to improve blood circulation, reduce blood pressure, and protect against heart diseases. It works by dilating coronary arteries, improving microcirculation, and inhibiting platelet aggregation.
Neuroprotective Properties
Research has shown that Dan Shen has significant neuroprotective effects. It helps protect neurons from damage, supports brain health, and may play a role in the prevention and management of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Dan Shen help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, making it beneficial for chronic inflammatory conditions and overall health maintenance.
FAQs
1. What is Dan Shen used for?
Dan Shen is used primarily for its cardiovascular benefits, including improving blood circulation and reducing blood pressure. It also has neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.
2. How should I take Dan Shen?
Dan Shen can be taken as a decoction, tincture, or in supplement form such as capsules or tablets. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare provider.
3. Are there any side effects of Dan Shen?
While Dan Shen is generally safe, some people may experience mild side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort. It can also interact with blood-thinning medications, so caution is advised.
4. Can Dan Shen be used for liver health?
Yes, Dan Shen supports liver health by enhancing detoxification and protecting liver cells from damage. It is commonly used in traditional medicine for liver-related issues.
5. Is Dan Shen suitable for everyone?
Dan Shen should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulants should also consult a healthcare provider before use.
Conclusion:
Dan Shen, also known as Salvia Miltiorrhiza Root, is a versatile herb renowned for its extensive health benefits. It has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries to invigorate and regulate blood flow, particularly aiding cardiovascular and blood-related conditions. The herb positively impacts heart health, inflammation, antioxidant capacity, liver function, menstrual and skin health, stress relief, and digestive support. Dan Shen's efficacy in targeting the Heart, Pericardium, and Liver channels underscores its holistic contributions to overall health and vitality.
Common Name: Red Sage Root
Pin Yin Name: You Ji Dan Shen
Channels/Meridians: Heart, Liver
Botanical Name: Salviae Miltorrhizae Root
Package Size: 1 pound pouch (454 grams)
Other Names: Salvia Root
Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.
Form: Cut / Sliced, not uniform pieces.
Origin: China
Brand: Nuherbs Lab Test - Geo-Authentic Herbs
Cautions: **Do not use if pregnant. **Avoid using if you are taking blood thinners such as Warfarin or Coumadin. Incompatible with Li Lu.** Consult your health care professional for guidance. Dan Shen may interact with anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider before combining it with other medications.
Summary of Dan Shen Salvia Root
- Supports Healthy Liver Function
- Nourishes the Blood
- Calms the Spirit
- Traditionally used for Cardiovascular Issues
- Considered Bitter in Flavor
- Cold in Nature
- Promotes Blood Circulation
- Clears Heat
- Dispels Blood Stasis
- Invigorates Blood
- May Relieve Insomnia
At 1stChineseHerbs.com we're committed to providing our readers with the most comprehensive and accurate information about health and wellness.
Properties: Bitter, Slightly Cold
Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly. Our web page is constantly expanding, as of today we have articles on:
- How to make salves, poultice, tinctures, teas, capsules, gargles, and foot bathes
- How to make a citrus facial splash
- Cayenne pepper: Caterpillar and aphid spray ( Natural insect repellent )
- Citrus potpourri basket
About Nuherbs Lab Tested Quality
Each batch of herbs is dual-lab tested by our in-house lab and independent third party lab. Our in-house lab is equipped with instruments such as a high performance liquid chromatography, moisture determination meter, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, gas chromatograph, etc.
In addition, the following additional tests are performed:
- Micro bacteria
- Pesticides - over 200 pesticides tested for (Uab 2000 screen).
- Heavy Metals - Lead, Mercury and Arsenic
References
https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S0192415X13500729
https://bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12906-021-03209-1
https://cmjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1749-8546-5-22
https://medicinewithheart.com/dan-shen/
https://www.phoenixmedical.com/dan-shen-new
https://nouvelleresearch.com/index.php/product/dan-shen-extract-100-grams
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464621002620
https://www.acupuncturetoday.com/herbcentral/redsage_root.php
https://www.jadeinstitute.com/dan-shen-salvia-miltiorrhiza/
1 Review
-
Dan Shen
Very high quality, fresh product. Happy Customer.
