# Tanshinone I **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/tanshinone-i **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-28 **Evidence Score:** 2 / 10 **Category:** Compound **Also Known As:** Tanshinone-I, TSN-I, Danshen tanshinone I, Salvia miltiorrhiza tanshinone I, Diterpenoid quinone I, Dan-shen-suan A ## Overview Tanshinone I is a diterpene quinone compound extracted from Salvia miltiorrhiza that demonstrates potent cytotoxic effects against cancer cells through apoptosis induction. This bioactive compound activates caspase-3 and caspase-7 pathways while providing DNA protection against oxidative damage. ## Health Benefits • Exhibits protective effects against oxidative DNA damage, as observed in preclinical studies. • Demonstrates cytotoxicity against cancer cells, although human trials are lacking. • Potential anti-cancer activity, supported by in-vitro studies. • Induces apoptosis via caspase-3/-7 activation in cell studies. • Structural modifications improve water solubility and bioavailability for potential therapeutic use. ## Mechanism of Action Tanshinone I exerts its anti-cancer effects by activating the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, specifically triggering caspase-3 and caspase-7 enzymes that initiate programmed cell death in malignant cells. The compound also functions as an antioxidant by scavenging [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and reducing oxidative DNA damage through direct free radical neutralization. Additionally, it may modulate [mitochondrial](/ingredients/condition/energy) membrane potential and cytochrome c release to enhance apoptotic signaling cascades. ## Clinical Summary Current evidence for tanshinone I consists primarily of in-vitro and preclinical animal studies, with no published human clinical trials available. Laboratory studies have demonstrated IC50 values ranging from 10-50 μM against various cancer cell lines including hepatocellular carcinoma and breast cancer cells. Preclinical research shows significant DNA damage reduction of 40-60% in [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) models using concentrations of 25-100 μM. The lack of human trials limits the translation of these promising laboratory findings to clinical applications. ## Nutritional Profile Tanshinone I is a pure bioactive compound (abietane-type diterpene quinone) isolated from Salvia miltiorrhiza (Danshen), not a whole food ingredient, and therefore has no conventional macronutrient or micronutrient profile. Molecular formula: C18H12O3, molecular weight: 276.29 g/mol. It is a lipophilic polycyclic aromatic compound with a furan ring fused to a phenanthrenequinone core. As a pure phytochemical, it contains no carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fiber, vitamins, or dietary minerals in the nutritional sense. Bioactive compound concentration: Tanshinone I constitutes approximately 0.01–0.05% by dry weight of Danshen root extract, depending on extraction method. It is one of several tanshinone analogues alongside Tanshinone IIA (the most abundant, ~0.1–0.3% dry weight), cryptotanshinone, and dihydrotanshinone I. Bioavailability: Tanshinone I is highly lipophilic (logP estimated ~3.5–4.0), resulting in poor aqueous solubility (less than 1 µg/mL in water) and limited oral bioavailability in its native form. Structural modifications such as sulfonation, nanoparticle encapsulation, or cyclodextrin complexation have been investigated to improve solubility by up to 100-fold. Absorption is primarily via passive diffusion through lipid membranes; first-pass hepatic [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) is significant. No established dietary reference intake (DRI) or recommended dose exists, as it is studied exclusively as a pharmacological agent in preclinical models at concentrations typically ranging from 1–20 µM in cell-based assays and 10–50 mg/kg in rodent studies. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges or forms for Tanshinone I are available due to the absence of human clinical data. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Safety data for tanshinone I is limited due to the absence of human clinical trials and comprehensive toxicology studies. Potential interactions may occur with anticoagulant medications since related tanshinone compounds can affect platelet aggregation and blood clotting mechanisms. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety has not been established, and use should be avoided during these periods. High concentrations used in laboratory studies suggest possible cytotoxic effects on healthy cells, though specific dosage thresholds for human safety remain undefined. ## Scientific Research No specific human clinical trials or meta-analyses are available for Tanshinone I. Preclinical studies suggest promising biological effects, but these findings are not yet supported by human data. ## Historical & Cultural Context Tanshinone I is a significant component of Salvia miltiorrhiza, widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for various conditions. Specific historical uses for Tanshinone I itself are not detailed. ## Synergistic Combinations Tanshinone IIA, Dihydrotanshinone, Cryptotanshinone, Resveratrol, Curcumin ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the difference between tanshinone I and tanshinone IIA? Tanshinone I is a diterpene quinone with two quinone groups, while tanshinone IIA contains additional hydroxyl groups and shows different solubility properties. Both compounds exhibit anti-cancer activity, but tanshinone IIA has been more extensively studied in human trials with better bioavailability profiles. ### How much tanshinone I is found in red sage supplements? Most Salvia miltiorrhiza supplements contain 0.1-2% tanshinone I by weight, with standardized extracts typically providing 10-50mg per gram of extract. The concentration varies significantly between raw herb preparations and concentrated extracts, with pharmaceutical-grade extracts containing the highest levels. ### Can tanshinone I cause liver damage? Current research has not identified hepatotoxicity as a concern with tanshinone I, and some studies suggest potential liver-protective effects. However, comprehensive liver safety studies in humans are lacking, and individuals with existing liver conditions should consult healthcare providers before use. ### Does tanshinone I interact with chemotherapy drugs? Laboratory studies suggest tanshinone I may enhance the cytotoxic effects of certain chemotherapy agents like doxorubicin and cisplatin through synergistic apoptotic mechanisms. However, this interaction has not been studied in human cancer patients, and concurrent use should only occur under oncologist supervision. ### How long does tanshinone I stay in the body? Pharmacokinetic data for pure tanshinone I in humans is not available, but studies on tanshinone-containing extracts suggest a half-life of 2-4 hours with primarily hepatic metabolism. The compound appears to undergo rapid first-pass metabolism, which may limit its bioavailability when taken orally. ### What does the current clinical evidence show about tanshinone I's anti-cancer potential in humans? Most evidence for tanshinone I's anti-cancer activity comes from in-vitro and preclinical cell studies, where it demonstrated cytotoxicity and apoptosis induction through caspase-3/-7 activation. However, human clinical trials are currently lacking, meaning its effectiveness and safety for cancer treatment in people remain unproven. This is why tanshinone I is not approved as a cancer therapy and should not replace conventional medical treatments. ### Who might benefit most from tanshinone I supplementation based on current research? Individuals interested in antioxidant protection may benefit from tanshinone I, as preclinical studies show it offers protective effects against oxidative DNA damage. However, the lack of robust human clinical trials means the real-world benefits and ideal candidate profiles remain unclear. Anyone considering tanshinone I supplementation should consult a healthcare provider to determine if it is appropriate for their individual health goals. ### How do structural modifications of tanshinone I affect its usefulness as a supplement? Chemical modifications to tanshinone I's structure have been designed to improve its water solubility and bioavailability, potentially making it more effective when taken orally. Enhanced bioavailability could increase the amount of active compound reaching target tissues compared to unmodified forms. However, most modified versions remain in research stages and are not yet widely available in commercial supplements. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*