Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Chinese salvia root, also known as Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza), has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), primarily for promoting blood circulation and treating cardiovascular disorders. In recent years, there has been increasing scientific interest in its potential application for inflammatory bowel diseases, including colitis. Preclinical studies using animal models of colitis (such as dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis in mice) have shown that extracts of Salvia miltiorrhiza can attenuate inflammation, reduce oxidative stress, and improve histopathological outcomes. These effects are attributed to its active compounds, including tanshinones and salvianolic acids, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties.

However, the current scientific evidence is mostly limited to laboratory and animal studies. A few small-scale clinical trials have explored Danshen-based herbal formulas in patients with ulcerative colitis, suggesting possible symptom relief and improvements in inflammatory markers, but these studies often lack rigorous controls and are not specific to the root alone. Systematic reviews highlight the need for larger, high-quality human trials to confirm efficacy and safety. Therefore, while there is promising preliminary evidence for Chinese salvia root in supporting colitis treatment, the evidence base remains weak (rated 2 out of 5), and it should not be considered a primary therapy outside of research settings or without medical supervision.

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