One of China's most famous herbalist, Li Chih Shen, said that "Tienchi is more valuable then gold". It has long been recognized as one of China's best tonic herbs for building the blood, improving the circulation and preventing anxiety. Steamed Tienchi is rich in iron, calcium, proteins, saponins, flavinoids and more. Panax notoginseng (also known as notoginseng or Tienchi ginseng) is a medicinal herb traditionally used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. While it belongs to the same genus as Panax ginseng, it has a different profile of active compounds and has traditionally been used primarily to support circulation and recovery.
Research suggests the following potential health benefits:
Supports healthy blood circulation: Notoginseng is traditionally used to promote blood flow and may help support healthy circulation. Its active compounds, called notoginsenosides and ginsenosides, have been studied for their effects on blood vessels.
May support cardiovascular health: Some studies suggest it may help maintain healthy blood pressure, support normal cholesterol levels, and promote overall heart health when used as part of a healthy lifestyle. More high-quality clinical research is needed.
May help reduce inflammation: Laboratory and animal studies indicate anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce inflammatory responses.
Antioxidant activity: It contains compounds that may help protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
Supports recovery from bruising and injury: Traditionally, notoginseng has been used to help reduce bruising and swelling after injuries and to support tissue recovery.
May support healthy blood sugar metabolism: Preliminary research suggests it may improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, but evidence in humans remains limited.
May support cognitive health: Early studies suggest potential neuroprotective effects, although clinical evidence is still emerging.
Potential immune support: Some research indicates it may influence immune function, but more human studies are needed.
Active compounds
The primary bioactive constituents include:
Notoginsenosides
Ginsenosides (especially Rg1, Rb1, and R1)
Flavonoids
Polysaccharides
Safety and precautions
Notoginseng is generally well tolerated when used appropriately, but it may: Increase the risk of bleeding, especially if taken with blood-thinning medications such as Warfarin, Apixaban, or Clopidogrel. Interact with medications that affect blood sugar or blood pressure. Be unsuitable before surgery because of its potential effects on blood clotting.
If someone is pregnant, breastfeeding, has a bleeding disorder, or takes prescription medications, they should consult a healthcare professional before using notoginseng.
Overall, the strongest evidence supports its traditional use for circulatory health and recovery from bruising, while benefits for cardiovascular, metabolic, and cognitive health are promising but require more robust human clinical trials.
Steamed Tienchi is rich in iron, calcium, proteins, saponins, flavinoids and more. However, steamed
