Dong Quai
Snapshot
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) is a traditional Chinese herb used to support women’s health, hormonal balance, and circulatory function through its phytoestrogenic and blood-tonic properties.
What is Dong Quai?
Dong Quai refers to the root of Angelica sinensis, containing compounds such as ligustilide, ferulic acid, and polysaccharides that modulate estrogenic activity and improve blood circulation.
Where It Comes From
Grown in cool, high-altitude regions of China, Korea, and Japan, Dong Quai roots are harvested in autumn, washed, sun- or low-heat dried, then sliced and milled into powder or extracted with ethanol to produce standardized extracts.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides ligustilide (>0.2% in extracts), ferulic acid, coumarins, and polysaccharides, which exhibit phytoestrogenic, antispasmodic, and vasodilatory effects.
Health Benefits
Dong Quai supports relief of menstrual discomfort and mild menopausal symptoms; promotes healthy uterine tone and blood flow; aids circulation and may help reduce vascular spasms; and exhibits mild anti-inflammatory activity.
Recommended Dosage
Standardized extracts (0.2–0.5% ligustilide) are typically dosed at 500–1,000 mg daily in divided doses; traditional decoctions use 3–6 g of dried root boiled in water once daily.
How to Use It
Take capsules or powder with meals; prepare herbal tea by simmering 3 g dried root in 200 mL water for 10–15 minutes, then strain and drink once or twice daily.
Who Should Use It?
Women experiencing menstrual irregularities, mild menstrual cramps, or menopausal transition symptoms; those seeking circulatory and blood-tonic support.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
May potentiate anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications; contains compounds that can increase photosensitivity; avoid during pregnancy and lactation unless directed by a qualified practitioner.
Final Thoughts
Dong Quai is a cornerstone herb for women’s reproductive health and circulatory support, combining phytoestrogenic and blood-tonic actions when used appropriately.
Scientific Studies
Chen Y, et al. Effects of Angelica sinensis polysaccharides on estrogen-like activity in vitro and in vivo. J Ethnopharmacol. 2010;131(2):556–560. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2010.07.014
Winkelman C. Clinical evaluation of Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis) for relief of dysmenorrhea. J Altern Complement Med. 2001;7(2):159–164. https://doi.org/10.1089/107555301300055269
Kim E-K, et al. Vasorelaxant effect of ferulic acid isolated from Angelica sinensis via endothelium-dependent pathways. Vascul Pharmacol. 2004;41(5):267–275. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vph.2004.08.005