Angelica sinensis

Dong Quai

This is another plant belonging to the Apiaceae family, the same family as the carrot. The roots of Dong Quai or Tang-Keui/Danggui have been used in good faith by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for numerous health concerns including: gynecological, blood, and female reproductive issues. It is thought to nourish the blood in TCM and is included in recipes for post-partum nourishment to be cooked with other herbs and food into a stew. It is an official herb in the pharmacopeia of the People’s Republic of China.

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What is Dong Quai Used For?

The indications for this herb in TCM are clear, to circulate and nourish the blood. Here we are referring to the system of Blood, and not the liquid we commonly think of in our veins. The herb is sweet, acrid, bitter and warm. These are all energetic qualities known to harmonize and invigorate. It is used for convalescence, and feelings of weakness, chilliness and frailty, especially in Women. The herb alone and in conjunction with other botanicals in a formula provides a natural hormonal balance during the onset of menopause and is a good support for the peri-menopause and menopausal years.

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Traditional Health Benefits of Dong Quai

Highlights

What is Dong Quai Used For?

The indications for this herb in TCM are clear, to circulate and nourish the blood. Here we are referring to the system of Blood, and not the liquid we commonly think of in our veins. The herb is sweet, acrid, bitter and warm. These are all energetic qualities known to harmonize and invigorate. It is used for convalescence, and feelings of weakness, chilliness and frailty, especially in Women. The herb alone and in conjunction with other botanicals in a formula provides a natural hormonal balance during the onset of menopause and is a good support for the peri-menopause and menopausal years.

View Important Precautions

Traditional Health Benefits of Dong Quai

Active Constituents of Dong Quai
Ligustilide, phyto-sterols, ferulic acid
Parts Used
Root
Additional Resources
Jia, M.; Yang, T. H.; Yao, X. J.; Meng, J.; Meng, J. R.; Mei, Q. B. (2007). "[Anti-oxidative effect of Angelica polysaccharide sulphate]" (in Chinese). Zhong Yao Cai 30 (2): 185-188. Yao DN, Chen WY, Xiao Y. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi. 2010 Mar;30(3):317-9, 333. Chinese. PubMed PMID: 20535936.
Important Precautions
Not for use during pregnancy or lactation. If you have a medical condition or take pharmaceutical drugs please consult your doctor prior to use.
Disclaimer
This information in our Herbal Reference Guide is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.