People with diabetes can drink hawthorn slices and Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen) steeped in water.

Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen) and hawthorn (Shanzha) both possess blood-activating and stasis-resolving properties. Can individuals with diabetes safely consume hawthorn slices and Salvia miltiorrhiza steeped in water?

Individuals with diabetes may drink hawthorn and Salvia miltiorrhiza infusion.

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by impaired glucose metabolism due to insufficient insulin secretion and/or insulin resistance, leading to hyperglycemia. It may also disrupt lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, resulting in hyperlipidemia and increasing the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications. Diabetic patients may safely consume an infusion of Salvia miltiorrhiza and hawthorn. Both herbs promote blood circulation and resolve blood stasis. The hawthorn flavonoids inhibit hepatic cholesterol synthesis, thereby lowering serum cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. Salvia miltiorrhiza contains tanshinones, which exert anti-stasis effects and enhance systemic blood circulation while reducing peripheral vascular resistance.

Salvia miltiorrhiza has a bitter, slightly sweet, and slightly cold nature, and enters the Heart, Spleen, Liver, and Kidney meridians. Its primary actions include invigorating blood circulation, resolving blood stasis, nourishing the blood, calming the spirit, cooling the blood, and reducing swelling. It strengthens cardiac function by enhancing myocardial contractility and improving overall myocardial performance—making it especially beneficial for heart health. It dilates coronary arteries, increases myocardial blood flow, and expands peripheral vessels, thereby promoting blood circulation, resolving stasis, and improving microcirculation.

Salvia miltiorrhiza also inhibits excessive cellular proliferation and exerts hepatoprotective effects by improving hepatic microcirculation. It possesses antimicrobial and lipid-lowering properties—particularly valuable in cases associated with aortic valve atherosclerotic plaque formation, elevated serum cholesterol, and high triglyceride levels. We hope this article has been helpful. Wishing you a joyful life and optimal health!