Can Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen) be used for spleen deficiency?
Disease description:
I usually have a relatively weak spleen and stomach, and often feel abdominal discomfort. I went to the hospital today for a checkup, and the doctor prescribed some medication, including Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen). Can people with spleen deficiency use Danshen?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
Patients with spleen deficiency are generally not advised to use Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen). Danshen is a traditional Chinese herb known for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, but it does not have spleen-tonifying effects. Moreover, Danshen has a relatively cold and cooling nature, which may worsen discomfort symptoms in patients with spleen deficiency. Therefore, Danshen is typically not used to treat such patients. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may choose some appetite-stimulating and digestion-improving foods, such as hyacinth beans, Chinese yam, and chestnuts.
