It is found in the plants Salvia miltiorrhiza, and Melissa officinalis.

[2] It was discovered in the water soluble extract of roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza.

[3][4] The substance can dissolve in water, methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate and acetone.

[4] Danshensu as a racemic form has been made from protocatechuic aldehyde.

[4] Danshensu can have its hydroxy groups methylated on treatment with dimethylsulfate.