Danshen has the effects of promoting blood circulation, resolving blood stasis, reducing swelling, alleviating pain, lowering lipid levels, and reducing blood pressure. It can be used as an adjuvant treatment for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, liver and spleen diseases, diabetes, and other conditions.
The actions of Danshen mainly manifest in the following aspects:
1. **Promoting blood circulation and resolving blood stasis:** The tanshinones and salvianolic acids in Danshen can promote blood circulation, accelerate metabolism, help clear meridians, eliminate blood stasis, and relieve pain. Therefore, Danshen can be used to treat symptoms such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and dysmenorrhea.
2. **Reducing swelling and alleviating pain:** Components like tanshinones and salvianolic acids in Danshen have anti-inflammatory effects, effectively reducing inflammatory reactions and alleviating swelling and pain. Therefore, Danshen can be used to treat symptoms such as arthritis and hepatitis.
3. **Lowering lipid levels and blood pressure:** Components like tanshinones and salvianolic acids in Danshen can lower blood lipids and blood pressure, which is beneficial for preventing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Therefore, Danshen can be used to treat symptoms such as hypertension and hyperlipidemia.
It is important to note that Danshen should not be used concurrently with anticoagulant drugs and aspirin to avoid adverse reactions such as bleeding. Additionally, Danshen is not suitable for use in pregnant or lactating women. Before using Danshen, it is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist or herbal medicine practitioner for advice.