Your cart is empty.
Your cart is empty.Product Description
Introduction to Danshen (丹参)
What is Danshen?
Danshen, known in English as Salvia miltiorrhiza or red sage, is a traditional Chinese herbal remedy that has been used for thousands of years in Chinese medicine. The root of the plant is primarily used for its medicinal properties. It is highly regarded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for promoting circulation, improving heart health, and addressing various cardiovascular issues. In Western medicine, while not as commonly recognized, it has been gaining attention due to its potential health benefits and active compounds.
Health Benefits of Danshen
The active compounds in Danshen include tanshinones and salvianolic acids, which are believed to have various therapeutic effects. These compounds are thought to:
- Promote blood circulation: It is often used to improve circulation, particularly for conditions like angina (chest pain) and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
- Support heart health: Danshen is thought to have a protective effect on the heart and is sometimes used for conditions like heart failure or to reduce the risk of heart attack.
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties: The herb has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Liver and kidney health: Some studies suggest that Danshen may also help protect the liver and kidneys by promoting detoxification and reducing oxidative stress.
Usage and Considerations
Danshen is typically consumed as a tea, capsule, or extract. In China and other parts of East Asia, it is often part of a larger herbal formula tailored to individual health needs. In the U.S., it’s available in supplement form, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using it, especially if you are taking medications for blood thinning (such as warfarin) or blood pressure. Danshen can interact with these medications, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding. It is also recommended to avoid using Danshen during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as there’s limited research on its safety in these situations.
Danshen Recipe
Dan Shen Water
- Simple and easy to prepare.
- Add dried Dan Shen to a cup, pour hot water, and steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Optional: Add honey to reduce bitterness.
Dan Shen and Chrysanthemum Tea
- Classic combination for detoxifying and eye care.
- Use equal parts Dan Shen and Chrysanthemum flowers.
- Steep in hot water for about 10 minutes.
- Benefits: Clears heat, detoxifies, reduces eye strain.
Dan Shen and Goji Berry Tea
- Combines blood circulation benefits of Dan Shen with liver and kidney support from Goji berries.
- Use equal parts Dan Shen and Goji berries.
- Steep in hot water for about 10 minutes.
- Benefits: Improves vision, relieves eye fatigue, boosts circulation.
Dan Shen Pork Soup
- Medicinal soup for improving blood circulation.
- Simmer pork bones or meat with Dan Shen for 2-3 hours.
- Rich and nutritious, especially for fall and winter nourishment.
Alest
Reviewed in the United States on March 6, 2025
Fresh tasting dried and sliced Danshen. It has a strong scent and taste remnant of ginseng. It's easy to steep a few slices in boiling water for around 10 minutes. Can also be used to boil nutritious soups and broths.
FranFran
Reviewed in the United States on February 21, 2025
The Natural Pure Red Sage comes in a nice sealed jar. The red sage pieces are sliced evenly and have a good aroma. It is one of the herbs I use very often. I use a few slices per day to make tea. There are many benefits but you need to go slow and be consistent.
Recommended Products