Other Names:
Angelica sinensis, Female Ginseng
What is Dong Quai?
Dong quai is a perennial plant native to China, Japan, and Korea. Despite being botanically unrelated to ginseng, dong quai is often referred to as the female ginseng due to its believed ability to alleviate menstruation issues such as cramps, menopause and PMS (premenstrual syndrome). Dong quai is rich in bioactive compounds such as coumarins, ferulic acid, polysaccharides and phytosterols which allow this herb to provide various valuable health benefits.
Health Benefits:
Supports Women's Health
Dong quai is believed to provide powerful support for women's health, with many suggesting that it can support menstrual regularity, ease menstrual discomfort, and promote hormonal balance. Dong quai contains ligustilide which has been shown to promote nonspecific antispasmodic activity in the uterine muscles - meaning it can have a soothing effect on menstrual cramps. Moreover, one study found evidence that suggests dong quai extract was estrogenic in nature, indicating that dong quai may help alleviate symptoms of menopause attributed to reduced estrogen production in the ovaries.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Action
One of the compounds found within dong quai is ferulic acid which has potent antioxidant abilities. Ferulic acid scavenges free radicals, inhibits enzymes that catalyze free radical generation and promotes the activity of scavenger enzymes. Through this activity, ferulic acid can therefore limit harmful oxidative stress that is linked to the development of various diseases and aging. Studies also indicate that ferulic acid may have anti-inflammatory properties through decreasing levels of inflammatory mediators.
Supports Circulation and Cardiovascular Health
Dong quai can support blood circulation and cardiovascular health . One study found that polysaccharides within dong quai supported blood replenishment by promoting hematopoiesis through the regulation of cytokine levels. Research suggests that dong quai can have protective effects against myocardial infarction, inhibit the occurrence of myocardial fibrosis, and alleviate myocardial ischemia injury, indicating the herb's potential for addressing cardiovascular diseases.
History:
Dong quai has been used for thousands of years in Traditional Chinese Medicine to invigorate blood and treat gynecological issues. Its use spread across East Asia and later gained popularity in Western herbalism during the 20th century, particularly in female health supplements.
Typical Use:
Dong quai is commonly used in powder, capsule or tablet form supplements, typically alongside other synergistic ingredients rather than alone. These products are often formulated to support female health and alleviate negative symptoms of menstruation and menopause.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30235459/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2127228/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38953103/
