Dan Shen (Salvia Root) - Best Chinese Herbal Remedies - Plum Dragon Herbs

Plum Dragon Herbs

Dan Shen (Salvia Root)

$2.00

Dan Shen (Salvia Root) is a powerful herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is known for its ability to support the cardiovascular system, and for its ability to improve blood circulation. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for overall health and well-being.

The root of the Salvia Miltiorrhizae plant is a very common herb for use in invigorating the blood and removing blood stagnation. It is also has a secondary effect to tonify and nourish the blood. This herb is cooling in nature, exhibits a marked bitter flavor and to that end, aids in cooling the blood and reducing swelling related to common athletic injuries. It enters the Heart, Pericardium, and Liver meridians.

High Quality Dan Shen: What does it look like?

Some characteristics of high quality Dan Shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) herb include:

  • Red color
  • High tanshinone content
  • Low ash and heavy metal content
  • Properly dried
  • Free from mold, pests, and other contaminants
  • Consistent size and shape of the root.

Plum Dragon Herbs is proud to offer high-quality Dan Shen which comes from a reputable source and is free from chemicals and other contaminants. 

How is Dan Shen prepared and processed?

Dan Shen, also known as Salvia miltiorrhiza, is native to China, specifically the central and southern regions of the country. It is also found in some parts of Japan and Korea. The plant is commonly found growing in rocky, mountainous areas, and along riverbanks. Dan Shen is a perennial herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for a wide range of ailments.

The optimal habitat for Salvia root is well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter. Salvia prefers full sun to partial shade and should be watered regularly. Salvia should be fertilized monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Salvia should be planted in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. They can also be grown in containers. The root of Salvia can also be propagated by division, cuttings, or seeds.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Dan Shen (Salvia root) is typically processed before use in order to remove impurities and to enhance its medicinal properties. The process of processing Salvia root can vary depending on the specific method used, but it typically involves several steps.

  1. The first step in processing Salvia root is to clean and sort the roots. The roots are washed to remove dirt and other impurities. Then, the roots are sorted to remove any damaged or diseased pieces.
  2. The next step is to dry the roots. This is typically done by spreading the roots out in the sun or by using a dehydrator. The drying process helps to remove any remaining moisture and to preserve the roots for future use.
  3. After the roots are dry, they are often cut into small pieces or ground into a powder. This makes them easier to use in decoctions or other preparations.
  4. The final step in processing Salvia root is to age it. Aging is a process that involves storing the dried and cut roots for several months. This allows the medicinal properties of the roots to develop and mature, making them more effective for use in TCM.

It's important to note that the quality of the raw materials and the processing methods are crucial for the medicinal properties of the herb. The Chinese pharmacopeia has strict guidelines for the quality control of the herbs. Plum Dragon supplies only the highest quality products that meet guidelines. 

 For preparation, Dan Shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) is typically prepared as a decoction, which is made by boiling the dried root in water. It can also be prepared as a powder or a tincture. One common way to prepare a decoction is to simmer 3-9 grams of dried Dan Shen root in water for 30-60 minutes. The decoction is then strained and consumed in small doses.

Popular Recipe for Dan Shen

Dan Shen, also known as Salvia miltiorrhiza, is a commonly used herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) that is believed to have blood-invigorating properties. It is often used to help with issues related to blood circulation, such as angina, high blood pressure, and varicose veins.

Here is a recipe for a traditional Chinese soup that includes Dan Shen:

Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup of dried Dan Shen
  • 1/4 cup of dried red dates
  • 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup of goji berries (optional)
  • 1 tsp of ginger, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Soak the dried Dan Shen and red dates in water for at least 30 minutes to soften.
  2. In a pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the soaked Dan Shen and red dates to the pot.
  4. Bring the soup back to a boil and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes.
  5. If desired, add the goji berries and ginger for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  6. Strain the soup and discard the solids.
  7. Drink the soup while it's warm.

Note: You can adjust the quantity of Dan Shen to your preference, and also add other ingredients such as honey or lemon juice to suit your taste.

It's important to note that Dan Shen should be used with caution because it can interact with other medications and it can cause side effects like stomach upset and dry mouth. It's always recommended consulting with a licensed healthcare practitioner before using it.

Safety Precautions for the use of Dan Shen

When using and handling Dan Shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza), it is important to take the following precautions:

  1. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using the herb, as it may interact with certain medications or have contraindications for certain health conditions.

  2. Avoid using Dan Shen during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

  3. Do not use it in large doses or for prolonged periods of time as it may cause adverse reactions such as blood thinning, gastrointestinal discomfort, and allergic reactions.

  4. Avoid consuming Dan Shen with blood-thinning medications as it may increase the risk of bleeding.

  1. Keep Dan Shen out of reach of children and pets.

  2. Store Dan Shen in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

  3. If you experience any adverse reactions after using Dan Shen, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.

  4. Due to its potential to cause blood thinning, it is important to let your healthcare provider know if you are taking Dan Shen if you are planning to have surgery or dental work.

Additional Information about Dan Shen:

Common Names:  Dan Shen (Salvia Root) ; Salvia Miltiorrhizae; Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae

Properties: Bitter, cool

Channels Entered: Heart, Pericardium, Liver

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Rasheka Herr Ra Shenna
Dan Shrn

I have never purchased an herb from Plum Dragon that was not of superior quality that is why I continue to shop there and have shopped there for more than 3 years.

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