Dan Shen (Red Sage Root)
Salvia miltiorrhiza
丹参
Pinyin: Dān Shēn
Plant Family
Lamiaceae
Part Used
Root and rhizome
Origin
Shandong, Sichuan, Jiangsu provinces of China
Safety Level
Caution
Overview
Dan Shen is a perennial sage with purple flowers and a distinctive bright red root. It is one of the most important herbs in Chinese medicine for blood stasis and cardiovascular conditions. Dan Shen is the subject of extensive modern research for its cardioprotective effects. It is widely used in China for heart disease and is available in both oral and injectable forms.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
slightly cold
Flavors (五味)
bitter
Meridians (归经)
heart, liver, pericardium
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Invigorates blood and dispels stasis
- Cools the blood and reduces swelling (abscesses)
- Nourishes the heart and calms the spirit
- Treats chest pain and angina
- Irregular menstruation and menstrual pain from stasis
- Abdominal pain and masses
- Palpitations and insomnia
- Traumatic injury and pain
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Used in decoctions, tablets, capsules, injections (in Chinese hospitals), and tinctures. Modern preparations include standardized extracts and "compound danshen" formulations.
Suggested Dosage
Decoction: 9-15g daily (up to 30g). Capsules/Tablets: 500-2000mg daily of standardized extract. Tincture: 2-4ml 2-3 times daily.
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Autumn, after aerial parts die back, from plants 2-3 years old.
Quality Indicators
Long, thick roots with bright red-brown color and distinctive earthy scent. Cross-section shows reddish interior. The best quality comes from Zhongjiang, Sichuan ("Chuan Dan Shen"). High tanshinone content is desirable. Should be heavy and solid, not light and brittle.
Storage
Store dried root in airtight container in cool, dry place, protected from moisture. Shelf life: 2-3 years.
Safety Information
Contraindications
Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant usePregnancy (blood-moving - may cause miscarriage)Heavy menstrual bleedingLow blood pressure (may further lower)Upcoming surgery (stop 2 weeks before)Children
Possible Side Effects
- Generally well-tolerated when used appropriately
- Mild digestive upset (nausea, stomach discomfort)
- Dizziness
- Bleeding risk (with high doses or blood thinners)
- Allergic reaction (rash, itching) - rare
- Very rare: anaphylaxis (injectable form only)
Drug Interactions
- Anticoagulants / blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, heparin) - SIGNIFICANT INTERACTION
- Antiplatelet drugs (clopidogrel)
- Blood pressure medications (may increase effect)
- Statins (may interact)
- Diabetes medications (may lower blood sugar)
- Digoxin
- Important: Dan Shen has major drug interactions - consult a healthcare provider if taking any medications!
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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