miltiorrhiza

Miltiorrhiza refers to Salvia miltiorrhiza, a flowering herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae). In traditional Chinese medicine, the dried root is called danshen and is used to improve blood circulation and treat cardiovascular and gynecological conditions. The name miltiorrhiza reflects an older classification in which the plant was placed in the genus Miltiorrhiza; in modern taxonomy the species is commonly cited as Salvia miltiorrhiza.

The medicinal part is the root (radix et rhizoma). It is prepared as dried roots, decoctions, granules, or standardized extracts and is used alone or in multi-herb formulas to address symptoms described as blood stasis in traditional terms.

Key constituents include lipophilic tanshinones (such as tanshinone I and tanshinone IIA) and hydrophilic salvianolic acids (A and B). These compounds are associated with vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-thrombotic effects in laboratory studies and are thought to contribute to improved microcirculation and endothelial function.

Clinical evidence for cardiovascular benefits is mixed; some trials suggest adjunctive benefits in certain conditions, but robust, high-quality evidence is lacking. Miltiorrhiza products should not replace conventional therapy, and use warrants medical supervision, particularly for individuals on anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications.

Safety and quality vary by product and country. Possible adverse effects include gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, and allergic reactions. Interactions with anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs are a concern. Regulatory status and standardization differ; it is advisable to obtain products from reputable suppliers and to monitor for adverse reactions.