Dong Quai Benefits

Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is a plant found at high altitudes in the mountain regions of China, Korea and Japan. It has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of ailments, and is second in popularity to ginseng. In the United States, dong quai is primarily used to treat symptoms of PMS, menstrual cramps and menopause in women. However, it has been used for many years to treat high blood pressure, infertility and circulatory problems in both genders.

Facts

• Dong quai is used for the treatment of just about every gynecological problem. Most effective when used over an extended period, it has been credited with strengthening the uterus. Though dong quai appears to have no specific hormonal action, it does exert a normalizing influence on hormonal production through its positive action on the liver and endocrine system. Dong quai is available in its root form, capsules, tablets and powders. It should be stored in a cool, dry place.

Fertility

• Dong quai is high in vitamins and minerals, including iron, which makes it especially beneficial for women in childbearing years and in preventing anemia. Ferulic acid, an antioxidant found in dong quai, has been shown to improve sperm quality, making it an effective fertility herb for males as well.

Menstruation

• For centuries, Asian women have used dong quai to regulate the menstrual cycle and ease painful cramps caused by strong uterine contractions. It's anti-spasmodic properties work by relaxing smooth muscle tissue. Herbalists also use dong quai in the treatment of amenorrhea (absence of a menstrual cycle).

Hypertension

• Dong quai is believed to dilate blood vessels, which in turn helps improve blood flow and increases the pumping effectiveness of the heart, resulting in lowered blood pressure and increased circulation to the skin and vital organs. It is nourishing to the blood and has mild sedative properties that relax the entire nervous system and reduce stress.

Menopause

• Dong quai is frequently used in China to reduce menopausal discomfort and alleviate hot flashes and night sweats. During menopause, dong quai helps tone and nourish the reproductive organs and eases this important hormonal transition. At one point dong quai was believed to have estrogenic properties; however, few studies have been conducted on humans, and those that have been done have conflicting results.

Contraindications

• Though herbs and natural remedies are generally safe, they do interact with medications and are contraindicated for certain medical conditions. Dong quai should not be used by women who are nursing, pregnant or planning to become pregnant, nor should it be given to children. It is known to increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, which could result in rashes and inflammation, so use of a sun block is recommended. People taking blood thinners and those at risk for or diagnosed with hormone-related cancers of the breast, prostate, uterus or ovaries, or with endometriosis or fibroid tumors, should consult with their physician before taking this herb.