San Qi, also known as Tienchi Ginseng or Panax notoginseng, is an herb that has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Native to the Yunnan province in China, as well as parts of Southeast Asia, San Qi is a dark green perennial plant with a rich history of medicinal use. TCM practitioners and other medical professionals have continually used this powerful herb to treat various symptoms.
In this article, we will delve into the uses, benefits, and potential of San Qi, exploring its applications in modern medicine and its potential as a natural remedy both independently and alongside conventional medicine.
Traditional Use and History of San Qi
In the Compendium of Materia Medica, or Bencao Gangmu, Li Shizhen highlights Panax notoginseng’s remarkable properties. These include its ability to stop bleeding, eliminate “blood stasis” or stagnant blood, and alleviate pain. This book was published during the Ming Dynasty in 1596, and while it’s the oldest record known of San Qi, the herb was likely used long before then.
The roots remain a vital ingredient in popular herbal remedies, while its flowers are used for their ability to clear away heat, calm the liver, and lower blood pressure. Today, San Qi is still used to prepare soothing herbal teas and in tablet and powder form for more direct medical use.
Uses and Benefits of San Qi
San Qi is a valuable herb that is used to promote overall health and wellness in a variety of ways. It can be both ingested and used topically on abrasions to stop pain and bleeding. It’s also warm in nature, so it can be used to correct a Yin excess and restore balance between Yin and Yang. But what does all of this mean in practice? Here are some potential uses and benefits of San Qi.
Hemostasis
San Qi is known for its hemostatic properties, making it an effective remedy to stop bleeding, whether from external wounds or internal bleeding. This makes it a popular herbal option for wound healing, even for minor injuries.
Reduce Inflammation
Panax notoginseng is also effective for reducing inflammation, both externally and internally. It can decrease the inflammation present in surface-level injuries and, when used internally, may also help ease pain and inflammation from painful chronic health conditions such as arthritis.
Improve Cardiovascular Health
San Qi is also believed to improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure, promoting circulation, and preventing the formation of blood clots. This may decrease the risks of heart disease, especially when used in conjunction with conventional medicine, a healthy diet, and moderate exercise.
Reduce Oxidative Stress
There is some evidence to suggest that San Qi possesses potent antioxidant properties, which can help protect against cell damage and minimize the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer. It may be best used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional treatments.
Enhance Athletic Performance
Healthy adults who aim to reach their full athletic potential may benefit from San Qi as well. Studies indicate that this powerful herb may improve physical performance during endurance exercises, possibly as a result of its blood-nourishing and circulation-improving properties.
Notable Potential Risks of San Qi
While San Qi is generally considered safe, there are some precautions and side effects to be aware of. Meeting with a licensed TCM practitioner is recommended for proper dosing and to increase awareness and understanding prior to taking a new herbal supplement.
They herb may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and blood pressure medications. As San Qi also interacts with blood flow, you may want to discuss these interactions with a doctor who has experience with both conventional and traditional Chinese medicine to avoid any potential problems.
San Qi can also occasionally cause uncomfortable side effects such as nausea, dry mouth, and rashes. Though these may be alarming to people who are new to this herbal remedy, they are temporary and not considered life threatening.
Overall, San Qi is a safe herb, especially when used under the guidance of an experienced TCM practitioner.
Try the Powerful San Qi
San Qi is a powerful herb with a rich history of medicinal use. Its uses, benefits, and potential applications make it a valuable addition to conventional medicine and a useful standalone product. As with any herbal medicine, it is essential to consult with a professional before using San Qi, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications. With its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular protective effects, San Qi has the potential to become a natural remedy for promoting better overall health and reducing the risk of serious diseases.
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*Please note: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This article is not intended to suggest specific treatments for patients or that any supplements mentioned prevent or cure diseases or problems. Before taking any herbs, all patients should discuss their options with a licensed practitioner, including any other medications the patient is currently taking, as there may be contraindications between pharmaceuticals and herbs.
