Salviae Miltiorrhizae
Also known as: Danshen, Chinese Sage, Red Sage, *Salvia miltiorrhiza*
Overview
*Salvia miltiorrhiza*, also known as Danshen, is a herbal supplement derived from the roots of the plant. It has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, primarily for cardiovascular health, but its applications extend to chronic kidney disease (CKD), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and osteoporosis. The plant contains active compounds such as salvianolate and tanshinone that exhibit various health-promoting effects. Current research is moderate in maturity, with several systematic reviews and meta-analyses available, although further rigorous clinical trials are necessary to comprehensively establish its benefits, safety profile, and mechanisms of action.
Benefits
[{"condition":"Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)","evidence":"Significant improvement in kidney function markers including serum creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR).","study":"Meta-analysis with 2264 participants showed substantial clinical significance.","research_quality":"Moderate due to methodological limitations."},{"condition":"Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)","evidence":"Improved pregnancy rates and metabolic parameters such as blood glucose levels.","study":"Systematic review analysis involving 390 patients, indicating potential reproductive health benefits.","research_quality":"Moderate, requiring more extensive studies for confirmation."},{"condition":"Osteoporosis","evidence":"Preclinical studies suggest it may inhibit bone resorption and promote formation.","research_quality":"Preliminary evidence; clinical trials are lacking."}]
How it works
*Salvia miltiorrhiza* exerts its effects through key bioactive compounds that have been shown to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory properties. These compounds, including salvianolate and tanshinone, participate in various biochemical pathways that influence cardiovascular function and bone metabolism. This includes reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are critical in managing chronic conditions such as CKD and osteoporosis.
Side effects
[{"effect":"Mild gastrointestinal symptoms","severity":"Generally mild","frequency":"Commonly reported but not well-documented."},{"effect":"Potential interactions with anticoagulants","severity":"Variable, with caution advised.","considerations":"Particularly relevant for individuals with bleeding disorders."}]
Dosage
{"minimum_effective_dose":"Traditionally used in doses ranging from 10 to 30 grams of dried herb daily.","optimal_dosage_ranges":"Not well established; varies with condition.","maximum_safe_dose":"Not clearly defined, but caution is advised beyond traditional recommendations.","timing_considerations":"Suggested to be taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.","form_specific_recommendations":"Commonly consumed as a decoction or capsule. Bioavailability is affected by preparation method."}
FAQs
Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It is advised to avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data.
When should it be taken?
Taking it with meals can help minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
What results can be expected?
Improvement may vary by condition, and benefits could take several weeks to become noticeable.
Can it replace conventional treatment?
No, it should not be used as a substitute for standard medical care and should be used under healthcare supervision.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35747383/ – This meta-analysis involving 2264 participants shows that *Salvia miltiorrhiza* can improve kidney function markers significantly. However, the evidence certainty is suboptimal, indicating a need for higher-quality studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34055030/ – This systematic review investigates the efficacy of *Salvia miltiorrhiza* in women with PCOS, highlighting improved pregnancy rates and metabolic outcomes. Further research with larger sample sizes is warranted for confirmation.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2022/2117433 – Preclinical findings suggest the potential of *Salvia miltiorrhiza* to provide anti-osteoporotic effects by inhibiting bone resorption, although clinical trials to validate these results are currently lacking.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39421672/ – Research indicates that *Salvia miltiorrhiza* possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting its traditional use in cardiovascular health. However, further analysis is needed to substantiate these claims in varied populations.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35250579/ – This study emphasizes the need for caution in prescribing *Salvia miltiorrhiza* with anticoagulants due to its potential antiplatelet effects, suggesting detailed assessments in patients with bleeding disorders.