Dong Quai

🌿 (Angelica sinensis) or Female Ginseng

Also known as Chinese Angelica

📖 Overview

Dong Quai is a revered herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), often called the “female ginseng” for its role in supporting women’s reproductive health, blood vitality, and hormonal balance. Though not native to Ayurveda, it’s increasingly included in integrative herbal formulations alongside Ayurvedic Rasayanas due to its complementary properties.

📜 Traditional Use in Eastern Medicine

In TCM, Dong Quai is classified as a blood tonic, often prescribed to regulate menstruation, alleviate cramps, and support postpartum recovery. It is known to nourish the blood, move stagnation, and balance yin energy.

In an Ayurvedic context, practitioners may align Dong Quai with Pitta and Vata balancing, using it similarly to herbs like Shatavari for its cooling, moistening, and female-nourishing qualities.

Dong Quai is said in Chinese materia medica to:
“Tonify the blood, invigorate circulation, and harmonize the menstrual cycle.”

🍵 Suggested Use

Dong Quai is most commonly found as:

Capsules/Tablets: Often standardized for ligustilide content
Decoction or Tea: Traditionally brewed with other herbs like Rehmannia or Goji
Tincture/Extract: Used for concentrated hormonal or circulatory support
Powder: Less common, but can be used with honey or ghee in Ayurvedic fusion formulas

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Modern studies support Dong Quai’s role in hormonal and cardiovascular wellness:

Hormonal Balance: Contains phytoestrogens and may modulate estrogen levels [1]
Menstrual Relief: May reduce cramping and improve cycle regularity in PMS and menopause [2]
Blood Circulation: Enhances blood flow and may help with anemia and fatigue [3]

References:

Lee, J. H., et al. (2006). Estrogenic activity of Angelica sinensis extract and ligustilide. Planta Med, 72(5), 421–427.
Wu, C. R., et al. (2004). Clinical study of Dong Quai in menopausal symptom relief. Menopause, 11(4), 474–480.
Lau, B. H. S. (1995). Effects of Angelica sinensis on hemopoiesis and blood flow. Am J Chin Med, 23(1), 1–10.

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

Avoid during pregnancy (may stimulate uterine activity)
Not recommended for individuals with estrogen-sensitive conditions
May interact with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
Consult your practitioner if using hormonal medications or anticoagulants

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"These products feature Dong Quai, traditionally used to support general wellness. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."

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