Evidence supporting the use of: Red Sage
For the health condition: Herpes

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Synopsis

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

Red Sage (Salvia miltiorrhiza), also known as Danshen, has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), primarily for promoting blood circulation, reducing inflammation, and treating cardiovascular and liver conditions. Its use for herpes (Herpes simplex virus, HSV) is grounded primarily in traditional herbal practice rather than robust scientific evidence. In TCM, Red Sage may be included in multi-herb formulations aimed at alleviating “toxic heat” or skin lesions, which can include herpes sores. However, high-quality clinical trials specifically evaluating Red Sage as a treatment for herpes are lacking.

Some laboratory studies have identified compounds in Red Sage, such as tanshinones, with in vitro antiviral activity, including against HSV. However, these findings are preliminary and do not translate directly to clinically meaningful outcomes in humans. No major clinical trials have confirmed Red Sage’s efficacy or safety for herpes infections. Therefore, while its traditional use for skin conditions and anecdotal reports may persist, the evidence supporting its use for herpes is weak, and it should not be considered a primary or scientifically validated therapy for herpes.

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