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Chinese Salvia

Also known as: Salvia miltiorrhiza, Chinese Salvia, Danshen

Overview

Salvia miltiorrhiza, commonly known as Chinese Salvia or Danshen, is a plant native to China and Japan with a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. It is valued for its potential cardiovascular benefits, including improving blood circulation and treating conditions like angina and stroke. The plant contains active compounds such as tanshinones and salvianolic acids, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. It is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and decoctions. Research on Salvia miltiorrhiza is ongoing, with increasing evidence from clinical trials and meta-analyses supporting its traditional uses. However, more rigorous studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety across diverse populations and conditions. It is also used to improve kidney function and manage conditions like endometriosis.

Benefits

Salvia miltiorrhiza has demonstrated potential benefits in several areas. A meta-analysis indicated that it significantly improved kidney function in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), reducing serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels, while increasing creatinine clearance and glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Specifically, significant reductions in serum creatinine (SMD -0.60, 95% CI -0.79 to -0.41) and BUN (SMD -0.66, 95% CI -0.81 to -0.50) were observed. Additionally, it may reduce the recurrence rate of endometriosis when used in conjunction with GnRH agonist therapy. Secondary benefits include improved cardiovascular health through enhanced blood circulation and reduced inflammation. These benefits are typically observed within several weeks to months of consistent use.

How it works

Salvia miltiorrhiza exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. Its active compounds, such as tanshinones and salvianolic acids, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It improves cardiovascular health by enhancing blood flow and reducing platelet aggregation. At the molecular level, it inhibits platelet aggregation and fibrosis, while promoting vasodilation. The bioavailability of Salvia miltiorrhiza can vary depending on the form of administration, such as capsules or decoctions, influencing its absorption and effectiveness within the body.

Side effects

Salvia miltiorrhiza is generally considered safe when used appropriately, but some side effects have been reported. Common side effects include gastrointestinal reactions. Uncommon side effects may include allergic reactions or interactions with other medications. Rare side effects include severe allergic reactions or liver function abnormalities. It may interact with anticoagulants due to its antiplatelet effects, increasing the risk of bleeding. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited safety data. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications. Long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare provider to ensure safety and efficacy.

Dosage

The optimal dosage of Salvia miltiorrhiza varies depending on the condition being treated and is often used in combination with other herbs. While a minimum effective dose is not well established, it is typically used in traditional doses based on herbal medicine practices. A maximum safe dose is not clearly defined, and long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare provider. It is typically taken orally, with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects. It is available as capsules, tablets, or decoctions, and bioavailability may differ depending on the form. Absorption may be influenced by the form of administration and individual metabolism.

FAQs

Is Salvia miltiorrhiza safe?

It is generally safe but may interact with certain medications, particularly anticoagulants. Consult with a healthcare provider before use.

When is the best time to take it?

It is best taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Consistent timing can also help maintain stable blood levels.

How long does it take to see results?

It may take several weeks to notice benefits. Consistent use and adherence to recommended dosages are important.

Can it replace conventional medical treatment?

No, it is not a substitute for conventional medical treatment and should be used under medical supervision. It can be a complementary therapy.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35747383/ – This meta-analysis of 32 studies involving 2264 participants with chronic kidney disease (CKD) found that Salvia miltiorrhiza significantly improved kidney function parameters, including reductions in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels. The study suggests potential benefits for CKD patients, but notes suboptimal certainty of evidence and risk of bias, indicating a need for more rigorous trials.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.831850/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the use of Salvia miltiorrhiza in postoperative endometriosis patients, analyzing 10 studies with 836 participants. The findings suggest that Salvia miltiorrhiza, when combined with GnRH agonist therapy, may reduce the recurrence rate of endometriosis. However, the review is limited to studies conducted in China, which may affect the generalizability of the results.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1425053/full – This meta-analysis explores the combination therapy of Salvia miltiorrhiza and Ligustrazine injection, assessing its safety and efficacy compared to conventional therapy alone. The study indicates that the combination therapy shows improvements over conventional treatment, suggesting a potential synergistic effect. Further details on sample size, population, and specific outcomes are needed for a comprehensive assessment.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20028328/ – This study investigates the effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza on platelet aggregation and thrombosis. The research indicates that compounds found in Salvia miltiorrhiza can inhibit platelet aggregation, potentially reducing the risk of thrombosis. This suggests a mechanism by which Salvia miltiorrhiza may contribute to cardiovascular health.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29452425/ – This study examines the anti-inflammatory effects of Salvia miltiorrhiza. The research suggests that compounds in Salvia miltiorrhiza possess anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its therapeutic benefits in various conditions. The study highlights the potential of Salvia miltiorrhiza as a natural anti-inflammatory agent.