DONG QUAI
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)
Dong Quai is a commonly used herb in TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and was traditionally used as a spice and medicine in China, Korea and Japan. Many refer to Dong Quai as the “female ginseng” due to its benefits towards women’s health. Despite this Dong Quai can also be taken by men as well for various purposes. This herb is usually used in combination with other herbs.
Health Benefits
- Menstrual and menopausal problems – Dong Quai is best known for its benefits towards the female reproductive system, mainly due to its effect on blood flow and muscle contraction. Dong Quai helps with menstrual cramps as it can reduce pain by relaxing the uterus muscles during menstruation. It also dilates blood vessels to improve blood flow during the menstrual cycle, subsequently replenishing blood in the body after the cycle ends. Dong Quai can help with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and regulate menstrual cycles for those with infrequent periods or amenorrhea (absence of menstruation). This herb can also benefit those with menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats and poor sleep quality during menopause.
- Blood – As previously mentioned, Dong Quai is an excellent blood builder. Besides replenishing blood flow after menstruation, it is also beneficial towards those with low blood volume, low red blood cell count (anaemia) or those with iron deficiency. The cobalt content in Dong Quai increases haemoglobin content, while its rich vitamin and mineral content improves red blood cell production. It can also improve blood circulation and replenish blood after surgery or injury.
- Muscle relaxant – Similar to its effect on the muscles of the uterus during menstruation, Dong Quai can act as a relaxant on other parts of the body. A study reported that the use of Dong Quai in combination with other herbs provided relief for chest pain. It also has a calming effect on the nervous system, which promotes relaxation in those with high levels of stress, anxiety and mood swings. It is also used for joint and muscle pain, as well as those suffering from constipation as it relaxes the bowels.
- Skin health – Dong Quai’s ability to improve blood quality and circulation can help with various skin conditions, including depigmentation or loss of skin colour, psoriasis, alopecia, rosacea and eczema. It also improves overall complexion and clears blemishes through detoxification. Dong Quai also has a high antioxidant content, thus contributing to its anti-aging effect.
- Fertility – Dong Quai is used to improve fertility in women for many years. It helps with hormonal balance, improves uterine tone and strength, and regulates menstruation cycle. Dong Quai is also beneficial for male fertility as the ferulic acid in Dong Quai can improve sperm quality.
As with all health food supplements and medication, caution should be taken before regular consumption. Consult with your health care practitioner or doctor, especially for pregnant and nursing women, children, women with hormone-related conditions such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, endometriosis or uterine fibroids, men with prostate cancer, women with heavy menstrual periods, those with chronic diarrhea or abdominal bloating, those taking anticoagulants or preparing for surgery.
Reference
- Cassileth, B. (2011). Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis). Oncology,25(1), 85.
- Filipiak-Szok, A., Kurzawa, M., & Szłyk, E. (2014). Evaluation of antioxidants in Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) and its dietary supplements. Chemical Papers, 68(4), 493-503.
- Lau, C. B., Ho, T. C., Chan, T. W., & Kim, S. C. (2005). Use of dong quai (Angelica sinensis) to treat peri-or postmenopausal symptoms in women with breast cancer: is it appropriate?. Menopause, 12(6), 734-740.
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