Health Benefits of Dong Quai

Dong quai (Latin name Angelica sinensis) is a Chinese herb that has become very popular in the West. Its primary use is to relieve symptoms related to the female reproductive system. It is particularly associated with symptoms that occur before and after menopause.

Plant Facts

• Dong quai is native to Asia. It is a member of the prolific Umbelliferae family, named because its habit of flower growth resembles an umbrella. Close relatives of dong quai that grow in North America include garden angelica (Angelica archangelica), osha (Ligusticum porteri) and wild angelica (Angelica sylvestris).

Benefits

• In Chinese traditional medicine, dong quai is used in formulas to balance and tone the uterus, particularly in postmenopausal women. Traditional uses include to relieve menstrual cramps; to reduce excessive menstrual bleeding; and to reduce headaches, palpitations, insomnia and other common menopausal symptoms.

Best Uses

• Herbalist Susun Weed, in her book Menopausal Years: The Wise Woman Way, states that the dong quai is best used for "pale, undernourished women." Traditional Chinese medicine classifies dong quai for use with cold and stagnant conditions (pale face, depressed mood, low energy), rather than for those with symptoms of heat (red face, high temperature, irritable moods).

How to Use

• The dried roots of dong quai are taken as a tea or tincture (alcohol extract of the herb). Traditionally, dong quai is taken in combination with other roots, including white peony root (Paeonia officinalis), burdock root (Arctium lappa) and licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra).

Contraindications and Cautions

• Pregnant and breast-feeding women should avoid dong quai. If taking this herb long-term, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, as it may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Dong quai contains a substance similar to coumarin, and should not be taken at the same time as the drugs heparin, warfarin and ticlopidine.

Notes

• Please consult an herbalist, naturopathic practitioner, acupuncturist or other natural medicine professional for further guidance in the use of this herb. Menstrual bleeding in a postmenopausal woman can be a sign of a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a physician.