Tienchi
Also known as: Tienchi, Notoginseng, Sanqi, Panax notoginseng
Overview
Panax notoginseng, commonly known as Tienchi or Sanqi, is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb derived from the root of a plant native to China. It is classified as an adaptogen and is primarily utilized for its potential benefits in cardiovascular health, including improving blood flow, reducing blood pressure, and aiding in stroke recovery. The herb contains active compounds called notoginsenosides, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. While research on Panax notoginseng is ongoing, several clinical trials and systematic reviews suggest its efficacy in certain conditions. However, the quality of evidence is mixed, with many studies having methodological limitations. It is available in various forms, including oral supplements and intravenous preparations, with the latter often used in acute clinical settings.
Benefits
Panax notoginseng shows promising, albeit mixed, evidence for several health benefits. Its primary effects are observed in cardiovascular health, where it may relax blood vessels, improve blood flow, and potentially reduce blood pressure. Some research suggests it could benefit patients with angina and aid in stroke recovery. Specifically, meta-analyses indicate possible improvements in recovery and reduced mortality after intracranial hemorrhage and stroke, particularly when administered intravenously, though the quality of this evidence is often low. Secondary effects include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which require further validation. Older adults and individuals recovering from stroke or cardiovascular events are the populations most likely to benefit. While effect sizes are generally small to moderate, the clinical significance remains uncertain due to study limitations. Benefits are mostly observed in the short to medium term post-event, with long-term effects less studied.
How it works
Panax notoginseng exerts its effects primarily through its active compounds, notoginsenosides. These compounds contribute to vasodilation by relaxing vascular smooth muscle, which helps improve blood flow. The herb also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, modulating inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers. Furthermore, it can influence platelet aggregation, contributing to its effects on blood circulation. Notoginsenosides interact with nitric oxide pathways, which are crucial for vascular function. While oral bioavailability is limited, intravenous administration is often used in clinical settings for acute conditions, allowing for more direct interaction with the cardiovascular and central nervous systems.
Side effects
Panax notoginseng is generally considered safe when used appropriately, though intravenous forms require medical supervision. Common side effects, reported in some oral use cases, include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects (1-5% of users) may include allergic reactions, headache, and dizziness. Rare but more serious side effects (<1%) involve bleeding complications due to its antiplatelet effects. Therefore, caution is advised for individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, as Panax notoginseng can increase the risk of bleeding. It is contraindicated in these populations. Intravenous use, especially in the elderly or those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, should only occur under strict medical supervision due to the potential for significant physiological effects.
Dosage
The optimal dosage for Panax notoginseng is not well-established and varies significantly depending on the preparation, form, and intended use. Oral doses used in clinical trials show wide variability, and there is no clearly defined minimum effective dose or maximum safe dose for general oral supplementation. Overdose risk primarily relates to its potential to increase bleeding. For acute conditions like stroke recovery, intravenous doses are standardized in hospital settings, and early administration post-event is typical. Oral supplements are generally used for broader health maintenance, while intravenous formulations are reserved for acute care under medical supervision due to their higher potency and limited oral absorption. No specific cofactors are identified as required for its efficacy.
FAQs
Is Tienchi effective for stroke recovery?
Some low-quality evidence suggests potential benefits, especially with intravenous administration, but higher-quality trials are needed to confirm its efficacy for stroke recovery.
Can it be used safely with blood thinners?
Caution is advised when combining Tienchi with blood thinners due to an increased risk of bleeding. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
How long does it take to see benefits?
For stroke recovery, benefits may be observed within days to weeks. For chronic cardiovascular benefits, longer-term use is typically required.
Is oral supplementation effective?
Oral use may have limited bioavailability compared to intravenous forms, which are more potent but require medical supervision for acute conditions.
Is it the same as Panax ginseng?
No, Panax notoginseng is a distinct species from Panax ginseng, with different chemical profiles and therapeutic effects.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11232984/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated Panax notoginseng for stroke and cardiovascular conditions. It found possible improvements in stroke recovery and reduced intracranial hemorrhage mortality, but highlighted that the evidence quality was low due to methodological limitations, heterogeneity, and small sample sizes in the included trials.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36058045/ – This systematic review focused on ginseng supplementation and vascular function, including Panax notoginseng. It concluded that ginseng species exhibit cardioprotective effects through improved vascular function, though the evidence quality was moderate and varied across different ginseng types and dosing regimens.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-906/panax-notoginseng – This source provides a general overview of Panax notoginseng, detailing its traditional uses, potential benefits, and safety considerations. It serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the ingredient's common applications and precautions.
- https://www.springermedicine.com/ginseng-supplementation-and-vascular-function-a-systematic-revie/51210844 – This systematic review examined the effects of ginseng supplementation, including Panax notoginseng, on vascular function. It identified cardioprotective effects mediated by improved vascular health, noting that while promising, the evidence was of moderate quality due to variability in study designs and ginseng species.
Supplements Containing Tienchi
Pre-Gro Max Blue Razz Snow Cone
iSatori
Pre-Gro Max Mixed Berry Fruit Smash
iSatori
Prostate Formula
Altrum
Ginseng Fuzion
Global Healing Center
Progene Daily Complex
Progene
Progene Daily Complex
Progene
Progene Daily Complex
Progene
Progene Daily Complex
Progene
Progene Daily Complex
Progene