Compound Monograph
Salvianolic Acid
Salvianolic acids are polyphenolic antioxidants characteristic of sage and Chinese red sage (danshen).
Classification
Salvianolic Acid is a polyphenol (phenolic acid), part of the phenolics class. Antioxidant compounds built around one or more phenol rings — the flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, coumarins, and pigments behind much of a plant's protective chemistry.
Where Does It Come From? (3)
Salvianolic Acid is a naturally occurring polyphenol (phenolic acid), found in Sage, Chinese red sage / danshen and 1 other source. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Salvianolic acids are a family of caffeic-acid-derived polyphenols best known from Salvia species, especially danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza), a herb long used in traditional Chinese medicine for circulatory complaints. Salvianolic acid B is the most studied member. These compounds are investigated for antioxidant activity and for potential cardiovascular and microcirculatory effects; much of the evidence is preclinical, with some clinical study of danshen preparations.
Toxicity & Safety
As polyphenols from a widely used medicinal and culinary genus, salvianolic acids are generally regarded as low in toxicity. Because danshen preparations may affect blood clotting, caution is advised when combining them with anticoagulant medication.