Danxiang Qingzhi Granules: A Chinese Patent Medicine for Hyperlipidemia

Danxiang Qingzhi Granules are a Chinese patent medicine whose formula is recorded in the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China. Their ingredients are: Danshen (Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix), Chuanxiong (Chuanxiong Rhizoma), Taoren (Persicae Semen), Jiangxiang (Dalbergiae Odoriferae Lignum), Sanleng (Sparganii Rhizoma), Ezhu (Curcumae Rhizoma), Zhiqiao (Aurantii Fructus), and Jiudahuang (wine-processed rhubarb). The finished product is a brownish-yellow to brownish-brown granule, sweet and slightly bitter. Its main actions are to activate blood and resolve stasis, move qi and unblock the collaterals; it is indicated for hyperlipidemia of the qi stagnation and blood stasis pattern.

Modern pharmacological experiments show that Danxiang Qingzhi Granules lower serum total cholesterol and triglycerides, improve lipid metabolism disorders, reduce lipid deposition on vessel walls, and slow the progression of atherosclerosis. They also improve blood viscosity, promote circulation, and relieve localized poor perfusion caused by blood stasis. The product therefore has a therapeutic effect on hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis.

In this formula, Danshen, Chuanxiong, Taoren, Sanleng, and Ezhu are all TCM blood-activating and stasis-resolving herbs; used together their effect is more pronounced. Zhiqiao and Jiangxiang move qi and relieve qi-stagnation symptoms. Jiudahuang both activates blood and resolves stasis and has a mild laxative effect; according to traditional TCM theory, using wine-processed rhubarb opens an exit for the pathogen.

Both Taoren and Dahuang in this product have a laxative effect, so taking it may cause diarrhea or loose stools; those with weak stomachs should use it cautiously. It should not be taken long-term, as prolonged use can lead to habitual constipation.

Danxiang Qingzhi Granules are a Class B medical-insurance drug and are also available at offline and online pharmacies.