Evidence supporting the use of: Chinese salvia root
For the health condition: Nephritis

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Synopsis

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

Chinese salvia root (Salvia miltiorrhiza, known as Danshen) is traditionally used in Chinese medicine for a range of circulatory and inflammatory conditions, including nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys). In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Danshen is believed to "invigorate the blood," reduce stasis, and clear "heat," which are concepts associated with conditions like nephritis. This traditional use is documented in classic TCM texts and continues in modern herbal practice in East Asia, where Danshen is often included in compound prescriptions for kidney-related disorders.

Modern scientific studies related to nephritis are limited. Some preclinical studies suggest that extracts of Salvia miltiorrhiza may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-fibrotic properties, which could theoretically benefit nephritis by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in kidney tissues. For example, animal studies have shown reduced markers of inflammation and improved renal function with Danshen extracts. However, clinical trials in humans with nephritis are scarce, and there is insufficient high-quality evidence to conclusively support its efficacy and safety for this indication. Therefore, while its use is grounded in tradition and supported by some preliminary biological rationale, robust clinical validation is lacking.

In summary, the use of Chinese salvia root for nephritis is primarily justified by traditional practice, with limited scientific support at the preclinical level. More rigorous human studies are needed to establish clear benefits and safety profiles for this application.

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