[Effect of radix Salviae miltiorrhizae on gastric mucosal barrier]

The authors observed the effects of Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae (RSM, Dan-shen) on gastric mucosa of twelve dogs with ex vivo gastric chambers. It was demonstrated that in physiological condition RSM increases gastric mucosal blood flow and potential difference, and decreased hydrogen ion back-diffusion. In this way, RSM kept the integrity of mucosal barrier, and improved its defence function. In pathological condition caused by aspirin, however, RSM could only delay the advance of mucosal lesions. According to this observation, RSM may be used as a prophylactic medicine combined with cimetidine in critical ill patients.