Also known as: Angelica sinensis, Female Ginseng, Chinese Angelica
Dong quai is a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine used primarily for menstrual and menopausal complaints. It contains ferulic acid and ligustilide, which possess antispasmodic and vasodilatory properties.
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is a perennial plant of the Apiaceae family native to the cool mountainous regions of China, Japan, and Korea. Known as 'female ginseng,' it has been a fundamental herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 2,000 years, primarily prescribed in multi-herb formulas for gynecological conditions including dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and menopausal symptoms. Its key bioactive constituents include ferulic acid (anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet), Z-ligustilide (antispasmodic, analgesic), and polysaccharides (immunomodulatory). While widely used in TCM combination formulas, evidence for dong quai as a standalone supplement for menopausal hot flashes is mixed, with the most rigorous trial finding no benefit over placebo.
Z-ligustilide in dong quai has demonstrated antispasmodic effects on uterine smooth muscle in preclinical studies, and traditional use supports its role in dysmenorrhea relief, typically in combination formulas.
Ferulic acid and ligustilide promote vasodilation and inhibit platelet aggregation, supporting healthy blood flow in both traditional and modern pharmacological understanding.
Divided into 2–3 doses; traditionally taken between menstrual periods
In TCM, dong quai is rarely used alone; it is typically combined with other herbs. Consult a TCM practitioner for appropriate formulas.
Convenient daily supplementation
Traditional TCM preparation within multi-herb formulas
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