Synopsis

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

Tanshinone is a class of bioactive compounds primarily found in Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. In recent years, preclinical and a limited number of clinical studies have investigated tanshinones for their potential role in addressing components of metabolic syndrome, such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and obesity. The scientific rationale centers on several observed mechanisms: tanshinones exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and lipid-lowering effects in cell and animal models. For example, tanshinone IIA has been shown in animal studies to improve lipid profiles and glucose tolerance, and to attenuate hepatic steatosis. Some mechanistic studies suggest it may modulate pathways such as AMPK activation and PPAR signaling, both relevant to metabolic syndrome pathophysiology.

However, the majority of evidence is derived from preclinical (in vitro and animal) studies. Human trials are limited and often small in scale, with mixed results and methodological limitations. There is not yet sufficient large-scale, high-quality clinical evidence to confirm efficacy or safety for metabolic syndrome in humans. While use is based on promising early scientific data rather than traditional application for this specific syndrome, more rigorous clinical research is needed before tanshinone can be recommended with confidence for metabolic syndrome.

More about Tanshinone
More about Metabolic Syndrome

Other ingredients used for Metabolic Syndrome

Other health conditions supported by Tanshinone

Products containing Tanshinone