DAN SHEN ROOT Salvia miltiorrhiza  
This Chinese medicinal comes in the form of long slices of root of an unusual species of Salvia (sage). Esteemed by the Chinese for thousands of years as an unsurpassed circulatory stimulant. Extensive research has shown Dan Shen to improve coronary circulation, expanding the arteries and improving blood flow to the heart. It is also used traditionally to treat menstrual irregularities and to protect the liver. Recent pharmacological tests show Dan Shen root to be an excellent anti-anxiety medicine as well, producing mental calmness and relaxation, releasing inner stress. The complex chemical compounds responsible for this beneficial effect have been discovered to act upon the so-called Valium receptor sites in the brain. Best taken as a tea, a regular dose of 10 grams decocts into a pleasant tasting red colored tea. 

                    Chinese Dan Shen root slices