Dong Quai (Angelica)

Dong Quai is also know as Angelica, and legend has it that the name Angelica was given to the herb after an angel visited a monk, and instructed him on its medicinal qualities.

Angelica sinensis, also known as Dong Quai, is native to China, where it has been used as a herbal treatment for thousands of years. It is an aromatic herb, and herbal preparations are extracted from the gnarled root of the perennial plant.

Dong Quai (Angelica) Medicinal Uses

Dong Quai (Angelica) is mainly used to restore regularity to women’s menstrual cycles. It has also been found useful for other gynecological problems such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and menstrual cramps. As it is said to relieve fatigue, and lower blood pressure, it is recognized as a general tonic for women.

One of the constituents of Dong Quai (Angelica) is coumarin that is best known for preventing blood clotting. Coumarin is said to have other beneficial effects, especially to the uterus, which indicates how it may be useful for menstrual cramps.

There are other herb experts who consider that Dong Quai (Angelica) is effective because of its high phytoestrogen content. Phytoestrogens are similar to human estrogens but they are weaker, and they are believed to be able to counter negative effects caused by a woman’s own estrogens.

Studies have shown Dong Quai (Angelica) to be useful for treating allergies and respiratory disorders. Some of its constituents are thought to have a antihistamine effect, to counter allergens such as dust, animal dander, and pollen.

Dong Quai (Angelica) Cautions

Because Dong Quai (Angelica) thins the blood, regular use can make menstrual flow heavier. Therefore, many herbalists issue Dong Quai (Angelica) cautions that it is not used during the actual menstrual period, or that other preparations, such as cinnamon bark are used instead. Also it is not recommended during pregnancy or whilst nursing.

Dong Quai (Angelica) contains substances that can react with sunlight. You should avoid prolonged exposure to the sun whilst you are taking it. This particularly applies to fair skinned people.