Dong Quai Herbal Information

NAME
Dong quai


LATIN NAME
Angelica sinensis

ALSO KNOWN AS
Dang Gui and Tang Kuei.

ORIGIN
China, Korea, Japan.

PARTS USED
Whole root


TRADITIONAL HERBAL USES AND MEDICINAL PROPERTIES
Chinese Angelica has been used in China, Korea and Japan as an all purpose women's tonic for many years. It appears it really is one of the ultimate herbs for women, restoring health and balancing hormones in all cycles of a women's life.

This aromatic plant has a reputation for treating many women's problems including:
PMS( pre-menstrual syndrome)
Menstrual cramps,
Irregular menstrual cycle,
Imbalance after coming off the birth control pill,
Gynaecological complaints such as endometriosis,
Symptoms of the menopause,
Lack of sexual desire,
Hormonal changes,
Vaginal dryness,
Hot flushes,
Headaches and weakness.

It is known to strengthen internal reproductive organs, the ovaries and the womb. And interestingly it is another of these reproductive organ tonifyers that has also gained a reputation as an Aphrodisiac for women and men.

It is a blood purifier, so it promotes circulation and nourishes the blood as it is high in iron. It also regulates blood sugar and lowers blood pressure.


FOLKLORE AND HISTORY
In traditional Chinese medicine, only ginseng is more esteemed. The name dong quai means proper order, and for thousands of years the dried roots have been used to restore a healthy order to the body. Since ancient times, dang-quai has been an important herb for women.


CONSTITUENTS
Dong quai contains vitamins E, A and B12. Researchers have isolated at least six coumarin derivatives that exert antispasmodic and vasodilatory effects. Antispasmodics are a remedy for menstrual cramps. The essential oil in dong quai contains Ligustilide, butylphthalide and numerous other minor components. Ferulic acid and various polysaccharides are also found in dong quai's root. These elements can prevent spasms, reduce blood clotting and relax peripheral blood vessels. Research has shown that dong quai produces a balancing effect on estrogen activity.


TYPICAL PREPARATIONS AND
SUGGESTED DOSAGE
Take 1 to 2 grams/ teaspoons of the powdered whole plant two or three times a day, or as recommended by a herbal practitioner.

Herbal Tincture
Extraction Ratio 1:3
Alcohol Vol. 25%
Take 1 - 3ml of the tincture two or three times a day,
or as recommended by a herbal practitioner.

PRECAUTIONS
Dong Quai should not be administered to children or patients with diarrhoea or haemorrhagic diseases, nor should it be taken by pregnant or lactating women, unless under directions of a qualified practitioner.