Evidence supporting the use of: Danshen
For the health condition: Strokes
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to promote cardiovascular health, including the prevention and treatment of stroke. Its historical usage is well-documented in Chinese medicine, where it is believed to "invigorate blood" and remove "blood stasis." In recent decades, scientific studies have investigated Danshen's pharmacological effects relevant to stroke, such as anti-platelet, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and neuroprotective properties. Some randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have suggested potential benefits of Danshen and its compounds (notably tanshinones and salvianolic acids) in improving neurological outcomes and reducing infarct size in ischemic stroke patients. However, most of these studies are limited by small sample sizes, methodological weaknesses, and inconsistent results. Systematic reviews generally conclude that while Danshen shows promise as an adjunctive treatment for acute ischemic stroke, the quality of evidence is low to moderate, and definitive conclusions cannot be drawn. Major clinical guidelines in Western medicine do not currently endorse Danshen for stroke treatment, reflecting the need for more rigorous, large-scale studies. In summary, there is some scientific basis for Danshen’s use in supporting stroke recovery, but evidence remains insufficient for strong clinical recommendations.
Other ingredients used for Strokes
acetyl l-carnitinealgal oil
anthocyanins
citicoline
DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
fisetin
ginkgo biloba
nattokinase
omega-3 fatty acids
resveratrol
tocotrienols
vinpocetine
swertia
7,8-Dihydroxyflavone
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Acetylsalicylic acid
Apocynin
Butylphthalide
bacoside
Crocetin
Danshen
Eicosapentaenoic Acid
Other health conditions supported by Danshen
AnginaArrhythmia
Arteriosclerosis
Blood Clots (prevention of)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
Circulation (poor)
Congestive Heart Failure
Edema
Fatty Liver Disease
Hypertension
Inflammation
Memory and Brain Function
Menopause
Migraine
Pain (general remedies for)
Phlebitis
Raynaud's Disease
Strokes
Thrombosis
Triglycerides (high)