Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb primarily used for its purported effects on promoting blood circulation and treating cardiovascular and liver conditions. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Danshen has occasionally been used as part of multi-herb formulas aimed at treating respiratory disorders, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), under the rationale of improving "blood stasis" and lung function. However, the use of Danshen for COPD is based mainly on traditional practice rather than robust clinical evidence.

A limited number of modern scientific studies have investigated Danshen’s effects on lung function and inflammation, with some small-scale clinical and preclinical studies suggesting potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These properties could theoretically benefit COPD patients, as inflammation and oxidative stress are central to the disease. However, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically evaluating Danshen as a monotherapy for COPD are lacking, and most studies involve Danshen as part of a multi-herb formula, making it difficult to attribute effects to Danshen alone.

In summary, while Danshen is traditionally used in some TCM practices to support lung health and may appear in herbal formulas for COPD, there is insufficient high-quality scientific evidence to conclusively support its efficacy for this condition. Its use is primarily justified by tradition, with limited preliminary scientific rationale.

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