How to Consume DanshenRaw Consumption of Danshen Powder
1. Grind Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) into a fine powder.
2. Take about 5 grams of Danshen powder and place it in a cup.
3. Add warm water, mix well, and consume.
4. Alternatively, you can place the Danshen powder directly in your mouth and wash it down with warm water.
5. Take it twice a day.
Cooked Consumption of Danshen Powder
Ingredients: 100 grams of japonica rice, 15 grams of Danshen powder, 10 dates, and appropriate amount of rock sugar or honey.
1. Rinse the japonica rice and pit the dates.
2. Place the japonica rice and dates in a pot, add an appropriate amount of water, and cook into porridge.
3. After about 30 minutes, when the porridge is cooked, add the Danshen powder and mix well.
4. Cook for another 10 minutes.
5. Finally, add rock sugar or honey to taste.
However, it is important to note that not everyone is suitable for consuming Danshen. It is essential to consult a professional before taking Danshen to avoid any blind self-medication.
Contraindications and Effects of Danshen
1. Pregnant Women
Danshen powder has a strong effect of invigorating blood and removing stasis, which can stimulate uterine blood vessels, leading to contractions and potentially causing a threatened miscarriage. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid taking Danshen powder.
2. Those with Bleeding Disorders
Due to its strong blood-invigorating properties, Danshen powder can stimulate blood vessels. Individuals with bleeding, especially those with gastrointestinal bleeding, should not take Danshen powder, as it may increase bleeding volume and even lead to severe hemorrhage.
3. Dosage Should Not Be Excessive
The recommended daily dosage of Danshen powder is about 10-15 grams. High doses may stimulate blood vessels and cause gastrointestinal bleeding.
4. Not Suitable for Long-term Use
Generally, long-term use of Danshen powder is not recommended due to its strong blood-invigorating and qi-regulating effects, which may lead to a decrease in potassium levels in the body, causing discomfort. It is advisable to consume potassium-rich foods such as oranges, sweet potatoes, and potatoes during the period of use.
5. Avoid Concurrent Use with Li Lu
According to TCM’s “Eighteen Contradictions,” it is mentioned that “various ginsengs and spicy peonies oppose Li Lu.” The properties of Danshen and Li Lu are opposite, so during the use of Danshen powder, one should avoid taking Li Lu to prevent adverse reactions that may harm health.
6. Avoid Concurrent Use with Anticoagulants
Since Danshen inhibits platelet aggregation, using it with anticoagulants like aspirin or warfarin may enhance the anticoagulant effect, leading to bleeding. Therefore, it is not advisable to take Danshen powder while on anticoagulant medications.
What Are the Benefits of Consuming Danshen?Effects on Invigorating Blood and Regulating Menstruation
Danshen powder has the effects of invigorating blood, removing stasis, and regulating menstruation. The component of danshensu can help dilate blood vessels, increase blood flow, reduce blood viscosity, and improve microcirculation, maintaining vascular patency. It can be used for the management of coronary heart disease and angina.
Effects on Regulating Menstruation and Alleviating Pain
Danshen powder has the efficacy of regulating menstruation and alleviating pain, helping to dilate blood vessels, unblock blood vessels and meridians, and maintain blood circulation. It has a certain auxiliary role in the management of menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and injuries.
Effects on Nourishing the Heart and Calming the Mind
Danshen powder has the effects of nourishing the heart and calming the mind, clearing the heart and relieving irritability. Its active components can help soothe the central nervous system, assist with sleep, and improve sleep disorders and neurasthenic insomnia.
Effects on Lowering Blood Pressure and Lipids
The blood-invigorating effect of Danshen can dilate blood vessels and reduce vascular resistance. Danshensu and rosmarinic acid have antioxidant properties that can lower blood lipid levels to some extent, making Danshen powder beneficial for managing hypertension and hyperlipidemia.
