This article introduces two traditional Chinese herbs, Dan Shen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) and Shan Zha (Hawthorn), which can assist in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
It is well known that Dan Shen is an excellent herb for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes that middle-aged and elderly individuals often suffer from Qi deficiency and blood stasis, making them susceptible to cardiovascular diseases.
The Ben Cao Jing Shu states: “Dan Shen is bitter and can drain, warm and can disperse; long-term use benefits Qi and specifically enters the blood aspect, its function is to invigorate blood and promote circulation.” This means that Dan Shen can be taken for a long time, and its bitter taste helps to drain. “Drain” means to facilitate downward movement of blood, but unlike other blood-invigorating herbs like Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis), it does not cause blood to rise to the brain, which could lead to cerebral hemorrhage.
Dan Shen
Moreover, Dan Shen not only invigorates blood and removes stasis but also tonifies Qi. The inclusion of Shan Zha is due to its effects in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases, lowering blood pressure, reducing blood lipids, and promoting digestion.
Dan Shen + Shan Zha: The Golden Combination for Preventing and Treating Cardiovascular Diseases
Dan Shen and Shan Zha Powder
Reduces blood lipids and prevents vascular hardening.
Dosage: 100 grams each of Dan Shen and Shan Zha, ground into powder, taken with 10 grams daily mixed in warm water.
For middle-aged and elderly individuals with high blood lipids, this method can yield excellent results over time.
Dan Shen Stir-Fried with Hawthorn: Protecting the Heart and Saving Lives
Preparation: 20 grams of Dan Shen and 200 grams of Shan Zha, appropriately add rock sugar; soak Dan Shen for 8 hours, boil for 15 minutes before adding Shan Zha.
Note: Diabetic patients should omit the rock sugar.
Shan Zha and Dan Shen Drink: Preventing and Treating Coronary Heart Disease and Cerebral Arteriosclerosis
Warm Reminder:
