Danshen is an herb. People use the root to make medicine.
Danshen is used for circulation problems, “brain attack” (stroke), chest pain (angina pectoris), and other diseases of the heart and blood vessels. It is also used for menstrual disorders, chronic liver disease, and trouble sleeping caused by complaints such as rapid heartbeat and tight chest. Some people use danshen for skin conditions including acne, psoriasis, and eczema. It is also used to relieve bruising and to aid in wound healing.
Danshen appears to thin the blood by preventing platelet and blood clotting. It also causes blood vessels to widen, and this can improve circulation.