Red-Rooted Sage (Salvia miltiorrhiza), also known as Danshen, has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine for a variety of conditions, including those associated with infections. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), it is primarily employed to "invigorate blood," "dispel stasis," and "clear heat," which encompasses a broad range of symptoms, some of which may be caused by infection. Historical texts and TCM practitioners have used Red-Rooted Sage in multi-herb formulas for conditions such as abscesses, sores, or other inflammatory states that may involve infection. However, its use is not specifically or primarily targeted at infection in the same way as modern antibiotic agents.

Scientific research has identified that some constituents of Red-Rooted Sage, such as tanshinones, possess in vitro antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. These findings are preliminary and have mostly been demonstrated in laboratory studies rather than clinical trials. There is limited clinical evidence directly supporting its use for treating infections in humans. Most modern research focuses on its cardiovascular, hepatoprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties rather than direct antimicrobial action.

In summary, the use of Red-Rooted Sage for infection is primarily justified by traditional practices, with limited scientific validation. The evidence for its direct efficacy in treating infections remains modest and largely preclinical.