Danshen

At a Glance

Common name

Danshen

Scientific name

Salvia miltiorrhiza

Family

Lamiaceae

Region

China, Japan

Plant part

Root

Caffeine

None

Evidence

Conflicting

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A respected TCM root ('red sage') traditionally used to support circulation and heart health.

A perennial sage with square stems, divided leaves, and violet flowers. The reddish, fibrous root (Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae) is the medicinal part.

Historical Background

Danshen has been a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine for over a thousand years, widely used in formulas for cardiovascular and circulatory health.

Earliest recorded uses: Recorded in the Shennong Ben Cao Jing; elaborated in later Materia Medica works.

Cultural significance: One of the most extensively studied Chinese herbs, danshen is used in both classical formulas and modern Chinese hospitals.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Mildly camphoraceous, woody

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Tanshinones and salvianolic acids show cardiovascular and antioxidant effects; some clinical use in China for angina, though evidence outside TCM settings is variable.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.