Danshen is one of the most versatile Chinese herbal drugs that have been used for hundred of years in the treatment of numerous ailments. Because of its properties of improving microcirculation, causing coronary vasodilatation, suppressing the formation of thromboxane, inhibiting platelet adhesion and aggregation, and protecting against myocardial ischemia, it is widely used either alone or in combination with other herbal ingredients for patients with coronary artery disease and other cardiovascular diseases, in both China and other countries including the United States. This article provides an overview of its history, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical applications, side effects, interactions with Western drugs, and future prospects in the management of cardiovascular diseases.