Single Herb Glossary
Tián Qī (Sān Qī) 田七 (三七)
| Pharmaceutical name | Notoginseng Radix Notoginseng/pseudoginseng root “three seven” |
| Category | Stop Bleeding |
| Key Properties | Stops Bleeding w/o causing blood stasis Transforms blood stasis Reduces Swelling & Stops Pain |
| Properties | Sweet Sl. Bitter Warm |
| Tropism | LV, ST |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Stops Bleeding & Transforms Blood Stasis (Interior & Exterior Bleeding) 2) Reduces Swelling & Alleviates Pain |
| Dosages | 3-9g (decoct);1-1.5g (pills/powders up to 3x/d). For severe bleeding, each dose up to 3-6g. |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Caution during Pregnancy. |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Saponins 3 to 12% (ginsenoside Rb1, Rd, Re, RG1, RG2, Rh2; notoginsenoside R1, R2, R3, R4, R6; 20-glucoginsenoside Rf, gypenoside XVII), dencichine, essential oils (α-copaene, β-cubebene, caryophyllene, guaiene, α-cedrene) |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Hemostatic: powder or water extract associated with marked effects to decrease prothrombin time and stop bleeding; this hemostatic function attributed mainly to dencichine • Antiplatelet: saponins have been shown to inhibit aggregation of platelets • CNS stimulant and suppressant: demonstrated both stimulating and sedative effects on CNS; aerial parts of this plant are rich in ginsenoside Rb, and characterized by sedative, tranquilizing and hypnotic effects; roots are rich in ginsenoside Rg and characterized by stimulating and adaptogenic effects • Cardiovascular: administration in dogs via intravenous injection decreases blood pressure, decreases heart rate, increases blood perfusion to coronary artery and decreases oxygen consumption by cardiac muscle; commonly used to treat arrhythmia secondary to decreased cardiac output • Immunostimulant: immune-enhancing effect similar to Ren Shen (Radix Ginseng), as both herbs have overlapping active compounds |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs: San Qi has unique action to regulate blood, with action to invigorate blood circulation and stop bleeding; use of this herb may interfere with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications |
| Classical Formula(s) |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.