# Xi Yang Shen (Panax pseudoginseng)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/xi-yang-shen
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Traditional Chinese Medicine
**Also Known As:** Panax notoginseng, San Qi, Sanqi, Notoginseng, Pseudoginseng, Tienchi ginseng, Chinese ginseng, Radix Notoginseng

## Overview

Panax pseudoginseng (Xi Yang Shen) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb containing ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 as primary bioactive compounds. These ginsenosides work by modulating nitric oxide pathways and platelet aggregation to support [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) function and hemostasis.

## Health Benefits

• Promotes blood circulation and [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) (traditional use only, no clinical trials available)
• May help stop bleeding and support wound healing (traditional use only)
• Potential pain relief properties (traditional use only)
• Possible stroke and chest pain management (traditional use only)
• May provide anti-swelling effects (WebMD notes potential, but no clinical evidence cited)

## Mechanism of Action

Ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 in Panax pseudoginseng modulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, promoting vasodilation and improved blood flow. These compounds also inhibit platelet aggregation through cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) pathways while affecting thromboxane A2 synthesis. Additional saponins may influence [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) mediators like nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2).

## Clinical Summary

Clinical research on Panax pseudoginseng remains extremely limited with no large-scale randomized controlled trials available. Small preliminary studies have examined [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) parameters, but sample sizes typically range from 20-50 participants with short duration follow-up periods. Most evidence supporting traditional uses for bleeding control and wound healing comes from animal studies and in vitro research rather than human clinical data. The current evidence base is insufficient to confirm therapeutic efficacy for any specific health condition.

## Nutritional Profile

Xi Yang Shen (Panax pseudoginseng, commonly known as Sanqi or Notoginseng) is not consumed as a macronutrient food source but valued for its bioactive phytochemical profile. **Key Bioactive Compounds:** • **Dammarane-type saponins (collectively called Panax notoginseng saponins, PNS):** Total saponin content approximately 8–12% of dried root weight. Major individual saponins include: – Ginsenoside Rg1 (~1.5–3.5% of root dry weight) – Ginsenoside Rb1 (~1.5–3.0% of root dry weight) – Notoginsenoside R1 (~0.5–1.8% of root dry weight) – Ginsenoside Rd, Re, Rg2, and Rh1 present in smaller quantities (~0.1–0.5% each). • **Flavonoids:** Quercetin and kaempferol glycosides present in trace amounts (~0.02–0.1%). • **Polysaccharides:** Sanqi polysaccharides (PNPS) approximately 3–5% of dried root; primarily composed of arabinose, galactose, and glucuronic acid residues; may have [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity. • **Dencichine (β-N-oxalyl-L-α,β-diaminopropionic acid):** A non-protein amino acid present at approximately 0.5–1.0% of dried root; believed to be the primary hemostatic (blood-stopping) active compound. • **Phytosterols:** β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, and daucosterol in minor concentrations (~0.05–0.2%). • **Volatile oils:** Trace amounts (<0.1%) including sesquiterpenes and polyacetylenes (e.g., panaxynol, panaxydol). • **Minerals (per 100 g dried root, approximate):** Iron ~5–15 mg, Calcium ~50–120 mg, Potassium ~200–400 mg, Manganese ~2–5 mg, Zinc ~1–3 mg; values vary significantly with soil and cultivation conditions. • **Amino acids:** Contains various free amino acids in small quantities (~1–3% total); includes arginine, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid. **Macronutrient context (per 100 g dried root, approximate):** Carbohydrates ~60–70 g (largely starch and polysaccharides), Protein ~5–10 g, Fat ~1–3 g, Crude fiber ~3–8 g, Moisture ~8–12%. Caloric value is largely irrelevant as typical medicinal doses are only 1–9 g/day. **Bioavailability Notes:** Oral bioavailability of ginsenosides Rg1 and Rb1 is notably low (~2–5% in animal studies) due to extensive first-pass hepatic [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) and gut microbial deglycosylation. Ginsenoside Rb1 is converted by intestinal bacteria into compound K (a more bioavailable active metabolite). Notoginsenoside R1 similarly undergoes significant gut metabolism. Dencichine has relatively higher oral absorption. Co-administration with food or lipid-based formulations may modestly improve saponin absorption. Processing method (raw vs. steamed) significantly alters the saponin profile—steaming converts ginsenosides Rg1 and Rb1 into less glycosylated forms (Rg3, Rk1, Rg5) which may have different bioactivity and bioavailability.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges, standardized forms, or concentration details (such as % notoginsenosides) are available in current research. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Panax pseudoginseng may increase bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulant medications like warfarin or antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin and clopidogrel. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, and potential [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) changes in sensitive individuals. The herb should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to lack of safety data. Individuals with bleeding disorders or scheduled for surgery should discontinue use at least two weeks prior to procedures.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier reveals no human randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, or clinical studies with PubMed PMIDs for Panax notoginseng. Available reviews emphasize preclinical data on nervous and [immune system](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects, but lack details on study designs, sample sizes, or clinical outcomes.

## Historical & Cultural Context

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Panax notoginseng (also called San Qi) has been used for centuries to promote blood circulation, stop bleeding, and relieve pain, distinguishing it from P. ginseng which reinforces vital energy. Traditional applications include trauma, chest pain, stroke, and heart conditions.

## Synergistic Combinations

American Ginseng, Rhodiola, Hawthorn Berry, Dan Shen, Ginkgo Biloba

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the difference between Panax pseudoginseng and regular ginseng?

Panax pseudoginseng (Xi Yang Shen) contains different ginsenoside profiles compared to Panax ginseng, with higher concentrations of Rb1 and Rg1. While regular ginseng is primarily used for energy and adaptogenic effects, pseudoginseng focuses more on cardiovascular and hemostatic applications in traditional Chinese medicine.

### How much Panax pseudoginseng should I take daily?

Traditional dosing ranges from 3-9 grams of dried root powder daily, typically divided into 2-3 doses. However, no standardized clinical dosing guidelines exist due to limited research. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplementation regimen.

### Can Panax pseudoginseng help with high blood pressure?

Traditional use suggests cardiovascular benefits, but no clinical trials have specifically tested Panax pseudoginseng for hypertension management. The ginsenosides may theoretically support blood vessel function through nitric oxide pathways, but evidence remains preliminary and insufficient for medical recommendations.

### Is Panax pseudoginseng safe to take with heart medications?

Panax pseudoginseng may interact with cardiovascular medications, particularly blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs, potentially increasing bleeding risk. The herb could also theoretically affect blood pressure medications. Medical supervision is essential before combining with any cardiac treatments.

### How long does it take for Panax pseudoginseng to work?

Traditional sources suggest effects may be noticed within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, but this timeline lacks scientific validation. Individual responses vary significantly, and the absence of clinical trials makes it impossible to establish reliable onset timeframes for any potential benefits.

### Is Panax pseudoginseng safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Panax pseudoginseng is not recommended during pregnancy due to its traditional use for stopping bleeding and promoting blood circulation, which could potentially affect fetal development. There is insufficient safety data for breastfeeding, so pregnant and nursing women should consult a healthcare provider before use. No clinical studies have specifically evaluated its safety in these populations.

### What is the difference between Panax pseudoginseng powder, extract, and tincture forms?

Panax pseudoginseng is available as powdered root, concentrated extracts, and liquid tinctures, each with different concentration levels and absorption rates. Extracts and tinctures are more concentrated and may be absorbed faster than powder forms, though no comparative bioavailability studies exist. The choice depends on personal preference and how quickly you want the herb to act in your system.

### Does Panax pseudoginseng interact with blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin?

Panax pseudoginseng may have blood-thinning properties based on traditional use claims and should not be combined with prescription anticoagulants like warfarin or aspirin without medical supervision. There are no clinical studies documenting the severity or mechanism of these potential interactions. Anyone taking blood-thinning medications must consult their healthcare provider before adding this supplement.

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