Dong Quai: Nature’s Health Elixir – Benefits, Medicinal Uses, and Home Remedies

(angelica sinensis)

Dong quai, often referred to as the “female ginseng,” is occasionally recommended for alleviating cramps, regulating menstrual cycles, addressing irregular periods, managing premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and addressing menopausal symptoms, despite the limited scientific studies available on its efficacy.

Dong quai is a member of the celery family. Greenish-white flowers bloom from May to August, and the plant is typically found growing in damp mountain ravines, meadows, river banks, and coastal areas. The root is used in herbal medicine.

Also known as dang-gui in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dong quai is sometimes referred to as the female ginseng. Dong quai’s use in Chinese medicine dates back to ancient times. Today it is one of the most heavily used female tonics throughout the world. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, dong quai is often included in herbal combinations for abnormal menstruation, suppressed menstrual flow, dysmenorrhoea (painful menstruation), and uterine bleeding. It is not used in TCM for treating symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flushes. It is also used in TCM for both men and women with cardiovascular disease, including high blood pressure and problems with peripheral circulation.

What it does

Dong Quai contains the volatile oil ligustide, coumarins and Vitamin B12. It has many properties which include female hormone balancing, anti-spasmodic and a smooth muscle relaxant, mild analgesic, circulatory stimulant, blood purifier and red blood cell builder.

Potential Uses

Benefits of Dong Quai:

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) is a remarkable herb known for its numerous health benefits:

1. Hormonal Balance: Dong Quai is often used by women to support hormonal balance, especially during menopause and menstruation, helping to alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and menstrual cramps.
2. Blood Health: It may help improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots, promoting cardiovascular health.
3. Pain Relief: Dong Quai possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in reducing pain associated with conditions like arthritis.
4. Stress and Anxiety Management: Some studies suggest that Dong Quai may have calming effects on the nervous system, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.

Medical Uses of Dong Quai:

1. Menstrual Discomfort: Dong Quai is often used as a natural remedy to alleviate menstrual cramps, regulate periods, and provide relief from PMS symptoms.
2. Menopausal Support: It may help manage menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis), a traditional herb in Chinese medicine, has gained attention for its potential benefits in cancer treatment.

While research is ongoing, there are promising avenues for utilizing Dong Quai supplements in conjunction with conventional cancer therapies. Here’s a detailed exploration:

**1. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Dong Quai contains compounds known for their anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation plays a significant role in cancer progression, and Dong Quai’s potential to mitigate this process is of interest to researchers.

**2. Hormonal Balance: Dong Quai is rich in phytoestrogens, plant-based compounds with estrogen-like effects. For hormone-sensitive cancers, Dong Quai’s ability to modulate estrogen levels may have a positive impact on cancer treatment.

**3. Immune System Support: The herb has been studied for its potential to enhance immune function. A robust immune system is vital in cancer treatment, aiding in the body’s ability to identify and eliminate cancerous cells.

**4. Pain Relief and Symptom Management: Dong Quai may offer relief from cancer-related symptoms. It has analgesic properties that can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with cancer and its treatments.

**5. Blood Health and Circulation: Dong Quai has properties that can promote healthy blood circulation. This may be beneficial in cancer treatment, particularly for those dealing with blood-related cancers.

**6. Stress Reduction: Some studies suggest that Dong Quai may have a calming effect on the nervous system. This can be especially important for cancer patients who often face high levels of stress.

Using Dong Quai Supplements in Cancer Treatment:

1. Consultation with Healthcare Provider: Prior to incorporating Dong Quai supplements into a cancer treatment regimen, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on the specific type and stage of cancer.
2. Integration with Conventional Treatment: Dong Quai supplements should be viewed as complementary to, not a replacement for, standard cancer therapies. They can be integrated into the treatment plan under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
3. Dosage and Formulation: The appropriate dosage and formulation of Dong Quai supplements will vary based on individual circumstances. A healthcare provider can recommend the most suitable option.
4. Monitoring and Adverse Effects: Regular check-ins with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor the effects of Dong Quai supplements. This ensures that any adverse reactions or interactions with other treatments are promptly addressed.

Recipes Using Dong Quai:

1. Dong Quai Tea for Hormonal Balance:

   • Ingredients: Dong Quai root, hot water, honey (optional).
   • Instructions: Steep Dong Quai root in hot water, add honey if desired, and sip to promote hormonal balance.

2. Dong Quai and Ginger Bath Soak:

   • Ingredients: Dong Quai root, ginger slices, warm bathwater.
   • Instructions: Infuse warm bathwater with Dong Quai root and ginger slices for a relaxing soak to alleviate cramps and promote relaxation.

3. Dong Quai Tincture:

   • Ingredients: Dong Quai root, high-proof alcohol (like vodka).
   • Instructions: Combine Dong Quai root with alcohol in a glass jar. Seal and let it infuse for several weeks, then strain. Take as directed for hormonal support.

Other information

Dong Quai contains phytoestrogenic components which modify oestrogenic activity in the body due to their ability to bind to oestrogen receptors in cells. If the levels of oestrogen are too high, the herb’s comparatively weak phytoestrogens can occupy receptors that otherwise could have been occupied by the much stronger hormone. If the oestrogenic activity in the body is too low, phytoestrogens can exert a mild positive oestrogenic effect.

Dong quai may regulate uterine function and may be of value in normalising menstruation. It is a good female tonic and cleanser and improves blood flow to the uterus.

Cautions

Large doses of dong quai may cause sensitivity to sunlight in fair skinned people.

Do not take it when using medication that causes photosensitivity: ACE inhibitors, amiodarone, some antibiotics, anti-convulsants, anti-diabetics, etoposide, loop diuretics, some anti-inflammatory drugs, oral contraceptives, quinolones, thiazide diuretics, topical antibiotics, tricyclic anti-depressants.

Do NOT use during pregnancy without consent of a qualified medical practitioner. Although rare, high doses may cause some women to experience abdominal bloating, diarrhoea or a change in the typical timing of menstruation and/or menstrual flow rate.

If you are taking anticoagulant medication (warfarin, heparin etc) check with your doctor before taking dong quai.