Dong Quai Root, Powder

Also Known as - Angelica sinensis, Dong Gui, Chinese Angelica, and Dan Gui.

Overview - Dong quai has been named the "female ginseng". It is an all-purpose herb for a wide range of female complaints. Used in the treatment of female problems such as hot flashes, menopause, PMS, and vaginal dryness. It helps women to resume normal menses after going off "the pill." Increases the effect of ovarian/testicular hormones. Treats all gynecological complaints; it regulates menstruation and treats dysmenorrhea, and amenorrhea. It reduces high blood pressure and is good for tinnitus caused by blood weakness, blurred vision and palpitations. It promotes blood circulation and thus relieves the pain of injuries. May prevent anemia; is a blood tonic for both men and women. Used for dryness of the bowels causing constipation, colds, flu, arthritis, rheumatic pain.

Medicinal Uses - Dong quai is most commonly used to treat menstrual complaints like pain and scanty menstruation. It is also proven effective for premenstrualsyndrome, cramping and irregular periods. It has an anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect on the uterus. It also relieves pain and relaxes muscles. Studies have shown that the herb actually has a very unusual effect. Before relaxing the uterus, it stimulates it, so the overall tone is improved and it contracts easier.

• Besides working on the uterus, dong quai may also relax the muscles of the heart, lower blood pressure and calm cardiac arrhythmias. There are also studies that show the herbal remedy effective for allergies and respiratory problems. It is also used for headache, infections, arthritis, kidney disease, menopausal symptoms and nerve pain. It is high in iron, and is useful in treating anemia and to nourish the blood of both sexes. This herb has a mild sedative effect to relieve stress. Some people use it during birth to stimulate the uterus. 

Key Points 

• Dong quai is an herb that has been shown to potentially relieve symptoms of menopause and depression, improve heart health, reduce inflammation, lower blood sugar and keep your bones strong.

• Historically, it has also been used to treat anemia, improve skin and hair health and decrease menstrual cramps, although current research on these effects is limited.

• Those who are breastfeeding, pregnant, trying to become pregnant or taking any hormonal medications like birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy should avoid dong quai.

• However, for those entering menopause and looking for a natural way to relieve symptoms, this powerful herb may be just the solution for you. 

Herbs to Combine/Supplement - Chinese medicine normally uses combinations of herbs, and this one is no different. It is often combined with whatever herbs the herbalist chooses to treat individual symptoms of specific ailments.

Parts Used - The root is the portion of the plant to be used medicinally, although the leaves, seeds and stems may be used as seasoning or confections.

Preparation and Dosage - Dong quai is found commercially as a tincture or powdered and encapsulated. 

• It is essential that the roots be stored in a dry place, otherwise they tend to soften and spoil. A good quality of dong quai and the Chinese method used for preparing the herb results in a potent beverage. Therefore, the Chinese women use it only once or twice a month. Since the herb is also regarded as a blood builder, Chinese healers recommend that for conditions of anemia the herb broth should be taken more often until the blood becomes normal, and thereafter only once or twice a month (for nourishing the female glands).
• Place 4 cups of water in a large Pyrex or enamelware container. Do not use aluminum; even stainless steel may not be used for this particular herb. Add a few pieces of lean raw chicken or beef and one small dong quai root, or half of a large one. Cover loosely and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, then allow the herb broth to cook slowly for several hours or until the liquid is reduced to 1 1/2 cups. Strain and drink the broth warm.
• Infusion: 1 oz. root simmered in 3 cups of water for 30 minutes along with a little fresh ginger. Take 1 day per week as a uterine tonic.
• Dong quai root is typically harvested and dried so that it can later be cut into pieces or ground up into powder form.
• The root can be simmered, steamed or slow-cooked to infuse the strong flavor into soups, broths and tonics.

Possible Side Effects & Precautions 

Dong quai contains coumarin, one of the main ingredients in blood-thinning medications like Warfarin. If you are taking Warfarin or another blood thinner, taking dong quai may increase your risk of bleeding. 

You should also be careful about combining dong quai with other natural blood thinners, such as ginger, gingko or garlic. Taking dong quai along with these compounds could increase your risk of bleeding or bruising. 

For those who are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, taking dong quai is not advisable and may increase the risk of miscarriage. It should also not be taken by those who are breastfeeding, taking oral birth control pills or using hormone replacement therapy. 

Additionally, some people may be allergic or sensitive to dong quai. If you have a sensitivity to other plants in the same family such as celery, anise dill or coriander, you should not use dong quai. 

Side effects of dong quai are rare, but may include difficulty breathing, bloating, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting or weakness. If you experience these or any other symptoms, you should discontinue use immediately and talk to your doctor 

Disclaimer - These products are not intended to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any disease. Reviews are not intended as a substitute for appropriate medical care or the advice of a physician or another medical professional. Actual results may vary among users. Mountain Maus Remedies LLC makes no warranty or representation, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or validity of the information contributed by outside product review submissions, and assumes no responsibility or liability regarding the use of such information. The information and statements regarding the dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. If you have a medical condition or disease, please talk to your health care provider. If you are currently taking a prescription medication, you should work with your health care provider before discontinuing any drug or altering any drug regimen, including augmenting your regimen with any herb or dietary supplements. Do not attempt to self-diagnose any disease or ailment based on the reviews and do not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. Proper medical care is critical to good health. If you have a health concern or suspect you have an undiagnosed sign or symptom, please consult a physician or health care practitioner.