# San Qi (Panax notoginseng)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/san-qi-panax-notoginseng
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-18
**Evidence Score:** 8 / 10
**Category:** Traditional Chinese Medicine
**Also Known As:** Panax notoginseng, Pseudoginseng, Notoginseng, Sanchi, Tienchi, Chinese Ginseng, Three-Seven Root

## Overview

San Qi (Panax notoginseng) contains ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 that improve [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) and wound healing through platelet aggregation modulation. This traditional Chinese herb reduces blood pressure and enhances circulation by affecting nitric oxide pathways and coagulation factors.

## Health Benefits

- Enhances [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) by reducing blood pressure, lowering heart disease risk. - Supports wound healing by promoting blood clotting, speeding recovery. - Alleviates pain through [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties, reducing discomfort. - Boosts immune function by enhancing [white blood cell](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity, strengthening defenses. - Improves energy levels by increasing oxygen utilization, reducing fatigue. - Reduces stress and anxiety by modulating [cortisol levels](/ingredients/condition/stress), enhancing relaxation. - Enhances [cognitive function](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) by improving cerebral blood flow, boosting focus and memory.

## Mechanism of Action

San Qi's ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 modulate platelet aggregation and enhance nitric oxide production, improving vascular function. The saponins inhibit inflammatory mediators like NF-κB and COX-2, reducing pain and [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation). These compounds also stimulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), promoting vasodilation and [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) reduction.

## Clinical Summary

Multiple randomized controlled trials with 50-200 participants show San Qi reduces systolic [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) by 8-15 mmHg compared to placebo. Studies demonstrate 30-40% faster wound healing rates and reduced bleeding time in surgical patients. However, most trials are short-term (4-12 weeks) and conducted primarily in Asian populations, limiting generalizability.

## Nutritional Profile

San Qi (Panax notoginseng) is not typically consumed as a macronutrient source but is valued for its dense bioactive compound profile. Key constituents include: **Saponins (Notoginsenosides/Ginsenosides):** Total saponin content ranges from 8–12% of dried root weight, with major compounds being notoginsenoside R1 (~1.0–1.8%), ginsenoside Rg1 (~2.0–3.5%), ginsenoside Rb1 (~2.5–4.5%), ginsenoside Re (~0.5–1.2%), and ginsenoside Rd (~0.5–1.0%). These dammarane-type triterpene saponins are the primary bioactive agents responsible for hemostatic, [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health), and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects. **Flavonoids:** Quercetin and kaempferol glycosides present at approximately 0.5–1.5% of dried weight, contributing to [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity. **Polysaccharides:** Sanqi polysaccharides (SQPS) comprise roughly 5–10% of dried root, with [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and hypoglycemic activities. **Dencichine (β-N-oxalyl-L-α,β-diaminopropionic acid):** Present at approximately 0.5–1.0% of dried root; a non-protein amino acid primarily responsible for hemostatic (blood-clotting) activity. **Phytosterols:** β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and daucosterol at trace-to-moderate levels (~0.1–0.3%). **Volatile oils:** Including sesquiterpenes and polyacetylenes such as panaxynol and panaxydol at trace amounts (~0.05–0.2%), contributing to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions. **Minerals:** Contains iron (~5–15 mg/100g), calcium (~50–120 mg/100g), manganese, zinc, and trace amounts of selenium and chromium. **Amino acids:** Contains approximately 7–10% total protein by dry weight, including essential amino acids such as leucine, lysine, and valine, though it is not consumed in quantities meaningful for protein nutrition. **Vitamins:** Trace amounts of B-group vitamins and vitamin E. **Bioavailability notes:** Oral bioavailability of ginsenoside Rg1 is relatively low (~2–5%) due to extensive first-pass [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) and gut microbiota-mediated hydrolysis. Ginsenoside Rb1 has similarly low oral bioavailability (~1–4%) but is converted by intestinal flora to more bioavailable metabolites such as compound K (20-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-20(S)-protopanaxadiol). Notoginsenoside R1 has moderate absorption (~5–8%). Dencichine is relatively well absorbed orally. Processing methods (steaming to create 'shu sanqi') alter ginsenoside ratios, converting protopanaxatriol-type saponins into protopanaxadiol-type metabolites, which can shift pharmacological profile and bioavailability. Co-administration with lipid-based carriers or phospholipid complexes has been shown to enhance saponin absorption by 2–3 fold.

## Dosage & Preparation

Typical dosage is 3-9 grams per day in decoction form. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

San Qi may increase bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulant medications like warfarin or aspirin due to its antiplatelet effects. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and skin rash at doses above 6 grams daily. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety is unknown, and it should be discontinued 2 weeks before surgery. People with bleeding disorders should avoid San Qi supplementation.

## Scientific Research

San Qi has been studied for its hemostatic and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties. Some RCTs suggest its efficacy in reducing bleeding and promoting [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health).

## Historical & Cultural Context

San Qi has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries to stop bleeding and reduce pain, particularly in trauma cases.

## Synergistic Combinations

Dang Gui, Chuan Xiong, Bai Shao

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the recommended dosage of San Qi?

Clinical studies typically use 1-3 grams of standardized San Qi extract daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Traditional preparations may use 3-6 grams of powdered root, though higher doses increase bleeding risk.

### How long does San Qi take to work for blood pressure?

Blood pressure improvements are typically observed within 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Most clinical trials show significant effects after 8-12 weeks of daily supplementation.

### Can San Qi be taken with blood pressure medications?

San Qi may enhance the effects of blood pressure medications, potentially causing hypotension. Consult a healthcare provider before combining, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.

### Is San Qi the same as regular ginseng?

No, San Qi (Panax notoginseng) differs from Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) in its ginsenoside profile and effects. San Qi has stronger cardiovascular and hemostatic properties, while Asian ginseng focuses more on energy and cognitive function.

### What are the signs of taking too much San Qi?

Excessive San Qi intake may cause prolonged bleeding, easy bruising, dizziness, or gastrointestinal upset. These symptoms typically occur at doses exceeding 6 grams daily and resolve when dosage is reduced.

### Is San Qi safe to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

San Qi is traditionally contraindicated during pregnancy due to its blood-moving properties, which may stimulate uterine contractions and increase miscarriage risk. Women who are breastfeeding should also avoid San Qi unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider, as safety data in this population is limited. Always consult with an obstetrician or qualified TCM practitioner before using San Qi if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or nursing.

### What is the difference between San Qi powder, San Qi extract, and whole San Qi root?

Whole San Qi root offers the most complete nutrient profile but has lower bioavailability and requires decoction preparation. San Qi powder is more convenient and offers moderate absorption, though some active compounds may degrade during processing. San Qi extract provides the highest bioavailability and fastest absorption, making it ideal for acute conditions, though it may be more expensive than other forms.

### What does clinical research show about San Qi's effectiveness for cardiovascular health?

Multiple clinical studies demonstrate that San Qi reduces blood pressure, improves blood circulation, and lowers cholesterol levels in patients with hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Research indicates that the active compounds notoginseng saponins improve endothelial function and reduce arterial plaque formation, supporting heart health. However, most evidence comes from Asian clinical trials, and larger Western clinical studies are needed to fully establish dosage protocols and long-term efficacy in diverse populations.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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