Danshen, Radix Codonopsis Pilosulae Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (danshen) is the dried root and rhizome of salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge., family Lamiaceae (Labiatae).
It has anti-thrombosis activity and improves capillaries microcirculation. Anti-thrombosis effect of Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma is related to the anti-platelet aggregation an anti-coagulant activities, and the promotion of fibrin or fibrinogen degradation. Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma has anti-myocardial ischemia, vascular endothelial cells protections, anti-myocardial hypertrophy and anti-atherosclerosis activities. It has calcium antagonistic effect. It can protect the brain from ischemic and hypoxic injury, has sedative and neuron cells protective activities. Miltiorrhizae Radix et Rhizoma also has anti-inflammation, anti-microorganism, anti-peptic ulcer, anti-humor, immune regulation and hepato-protective activities. Bitter in flavor, slightly cold in nature. Enter heart and liver channels. Invigorate blood circulation, regulate menstrual, cool the blood, relieve sores and abscess, relieve restlessness.