Evidence supporting the use of: Salvianolic acid
For the health condition: Fibrosis
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Salvianolic acid, primarily derived from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen), has attracted scientific interest for its potential antifibrotic effects. Recent preclinical studies—mostly in vitro and in animal models—have demonstrated that salvianolic acids, especially salvianolic acid B, can attenuate fibrosis in various organs, including the liver, lungs, and kidneys. The mechanisms proposed include inhibition of TGF-β1/Smad signaling, reduction of oxidative stress, and suppression of extracellular matrix protein deposition. For example, a 2020 review in Phytomedicine summarized evidence showing that salvianolic acid B inhibited hepatic stellate cell activation and reduced collagen production in models of liver fibrosis. Similarly, studies in pulmonary and renal fibrosis have demonstrated reduced tissue fibrosis and improved organ function following treatment with salvianolic acid. However, these findings are primarily from animal and cell studies; robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and promising preclinical data supporting the use of salvianolic acid in fibrosis, clinical evidence remains insufficient to confirm efficacy in humans. Salvianolic acid is not a standard therapy for fibrosis, but ongoing research may further clarify its therapeutic potential.
Other health conditions supported by Salvianolic acid
Alzheimer's DiseaseAngina
Arteriosclerosis
Arthritis
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Congestive Heart Failure
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Fatty Liver Disease
Fibrosis
Gastritis
Hypertension
Inflammation
Liver Detoxification
Memory and Brain Function
Parkinson's Disease
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Strokes
Triglycerides (high)
Ulcers