Last update Sept. 18, 2026

Dang Shen, Dangshen

Likely Compatibility

Fairly safe. Mild or unlikely adverse effects. Compatible under certain circumstances. Follow-up recommended. Read Commentary.

Shrub native to East Asia. Traditional Chinese medicine uses this dried root attributing to it various properties, none of which have been scientifically proven (Wong 1979). Not to be confused with the danshen or salvia miltiorrhiza, which is a very different plant.

Since the last update we have not found published data on its excretion in breast milk.

It has been used, alongside other plants, as a galactagogue, although its effectiveness in this regard has not been proven. (Li 2026)

Traces of metals and bacterial contamination have been detected in samples of this plant. (Ting 2013)

There is very little literature on this plant, but nothing has been published regarding its toxicity; moderate consumption during breastfeeding would have little or no risk.

Suggestions made at e-lactancia are done by APILAM team of health professionals, and are based on updated scientific publications. It is not intended to replace the relationship you have with your doctor but to compound it. The pharmaceutical industry contraindicates breastfeeding, mistakenly and without scientific reasons, in most of the drug data sheets.

Jose Maria Paricio, Founder & President of APILAM/e-Lactancia

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Other names

Dang Shen, Dangshen in other languages or writings:

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References

  1. Li K, Cai D, Gao Z, Liang X, Zhang D, Niu Y. Effect of a herbal galactagogic formula combined with auricular acupressure on breast milk production and hormonal profiles in women with postpartum hypogalactia: A randomized controlled study. Afr J Reprod Health. 2026 May 15;30(9):46-54. Abstract
  2. Ting A, Chow Y, Tan W. Microbial and heavy metal contamination in commonly consumed traditional Chinese herbal medicines. J Tradit Chin Med. 2013 Abstract
  3. Qi HY, Wang R, Liu Y, Shi YP. [Studies on the chemical constituents of Codonopsis pilosula]. Zhong Yao Cai. 2011 Abstract
  4. Wong HB. Effects of herbs and drugs during pregnancy and lactation. J Singapore Paediatr Soc. 1979 Abstract

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