Dan Shen Extract
Also known as: Danshen extract, Danshen, Chinese sage, red sage root extract, Salvia miltiorrhiza
Overview
Danshen extract is derived from the dried root of *Salvia miltiorrhiza* Bunge, a plant traditionally used in Chinese medicine. It is classified as an herbal extract and a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) botanical supplement. Key bioactive compounds include lipophilic diterpenoid tanshinones (e.g., tanshinone IIA) and hydrophilic phenolic acids (e.g., salvianolic acid B). Danshen is primarily used for its benefits in cardiovascular health, including heart failure and vascular cognitive impairment, and as an adjunct therapy for diabetic complications and certain cancers. It exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, vasodilatory, and anti-fibrotic properties. Research on Danshen extract is of moderate maturity, with multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its efficacy, though some studies have methodological limitations.
Benefits
Danshen extract offers several evidence-based benefits, particularly in cardiovascular health and cognitive function. For vascular cognitive impairment, a meta-analysis of 5 RCTs (n=560) showed Danshen preparations significantly improved clinical efficacy with an odds ratio (OR) of 3.22 (95% CI 1.99–5.23, p < 0.00001), indicating a strong positive effect. In heart failure, a meta-analysis of 9 RCTs (n=855) found Danshen decoction combined with conventional therapy improved the clinical effective rate, increased left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) by 5.46%, and significantly reduced biomarkers like BNP and NT-proBNP. As an adjunct cancer therapy, a meta-analysis of 13 studies demonstrated that Danshen formulae increased response rate (OR 2.38) and improved 1-year survival (OR 1.70). Secondary benefits include anti-inflammatory effects, evidenced by reductions in TNF-α and IL-6. These benefits are particularly relevant for patients with vascular cognitive impairment, heart failure, diabetic microvascular complications, and those undergoing cancer treatment. Effect sizes are generally moderate to large, with statistically significant improvements observed within 4 weeks to several months of treatment.
How it works
Danshen extract exerts its therapeutic effects through multiple biological pathways. Its primary mechanisms include potent antioxidant activity, which reduces oxidative stress, and anti-inflammatory effects achieved by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. Danshen also promotes vasodilation, likely through the activation of nitric oxide pathways, improving blood flow and vascular health. Furthermore, it inhibits fibrosis and platelet aggregation, contributing to its cardiovascular protective properties. At a molecular level, Danshen modulates the NF-κB pathway, inhibits TGF-β signaling involved in fibrosis, and influences endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). These actions collectively improve cardiovascular function, provide neuroprotection in cognitive impairment, modulate immune responses, and contribute to its anti-tumor effects. Tanshinones, being lipophilic, have moderate bioavailability, while hydrophilic salvianolic acids are generally better absorbed, with formulations influencing overall absorption.
Side effects
Danshen extract is generally well tolerated in clinical trials, with no serious adverse events commonly reported. The most common side effect, occurring in some studies, is mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects (1-5% frequency) may include rare allergic reactions or skin rash. No significant rare adverse events have been reported in high-quality randomized controlled trials. A critical safety consideration is its potential interaction with anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents due to its inherent blood-thinning effects; caution is strongly advised, and medical supervision is recommended for individuals on such medications or those with bleeding disorders. There is limited data regarding its use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, thus caution is warranted in these populations. Elderly patients have generally tolerated Danshen well in clinical trials.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Danshen extract varies depending on the preparation, but clinical trials have typically used doses equivalent to 10-30 grams of dried root or standardized extracts containing 20-40 mg of tanshinones daily. For specific conditions like heart failure and cognitive impairment, optimal dosages have been standardized to 20-40 mg/day of tanshinone IIA or 50-100 mg/day of salvianolic acid B. While no established maximum safe dose exists, doses up to 60 mg of tanshinones per day have been well tolerated in studies. Danshen is typically administered orally in divided doses, with treatment durations ranging from 4 weeks to 6 months depending on the therapeutic indication. Common forms include decoctions, tablets, capsules, and compound Danshen dripping pills, with bioavailability varying by form. Lipophilic components are better absorbed with fatty meals, while hydrophilic components are less affected by food intake. No specific cofactors are required, though some formulations combine Danshen with other herbs for synergistic effects.
FAQs
Is Danshen extract safe for long-term use?
Clinical trials up to 6 months show good safety and tolerability. While long-term data beyond this period are limited, no major safety signals have been reported, suggesting a favorable safety profile.
Can Danshen be used with blood thinners?
Caution is advised due to Danshen's potential additive anticoagulant effects. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for medical supervision if you are taking blood thinners.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Improvements in cardiac function and cognitive symptoms have been observed within 4-8 weeks of consistent use in clinical trials, though individual responses may vary.
Does Danshen interact with other medications?
Potential interactions exist with anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs. Data on interactions with other medications are limited, so it's best to consult a doctor about all current medications.
Is it effective as a standalone treatment?
Danshen extract is typically used as an adjunct therapy. Evidence primarily supports its benefits when combined with conventional medical treatments rather than as a sole treatment.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2022.1090665/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 5 RCTs (n=560) found that Danshen preparations significantly improved clinical efficacy in patients with vascular cognitive impairment, demonstrating a strong positive effect with an odds ratio of 3.22. The study noted some risk of bias due to unclear randomization and blinding but assessed the overall quality as moderate with low heterogeneity.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0284877 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 9 RCTs (n=855) concluded that Danshen decoction, when combined with conventional therapy, significantly improved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) by 5.46% and reduced BNP levels in heart failure patients. The study reported no adverse events and assessed the evidence as moderate quality with a low risk of bias.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6466905/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 RCTs investigated Danshen formulae as an adjunct therapy in cancer patients. It found that Danshen significantly increased the response rate (OR 2.38) and improved 1-year survival (OR 1.70). The study noted low heterogeneity and consistent findings, primarily from Chinese populations, assessing the overall quality as moderate.
Recommended Articles
Herbal Boosters & COVID-19 Antivirals: Safe Mix?
Herbal supplements may interact with COVID-19 antivirals, requiring careful consideration and further research.
Top Immune Support Ingredients: What Works?
Vitamin D, zinc, and echinacea are key ingredients in immune support supplements, backed by scientific evidence.
Top Anti-Inflammatory Supplement Ingredients
Curcumin, omega-3 fatty acids, CBD, and Vitamin D are proven to effectively reduce chronic inflammation.
Best Supplements for Cortisol Reduction: A Scientific Guide
Adaptogens like Ashwagandha and Rhodiola, along with Phosphatidylserine, are effective in reducing cortisol levels, supported by scientific studies.