Dong quai

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Dong Quai (also known as Angelica sinensis) is a plant native to China. The root of the plant is used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is often referred to as "female ginseng" due to its proposed benefits for women's health, particularly in relation to menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and menopausal symptoms.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Dong Quai has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese, Korean, and Japanese medicine. It is used to treat a variety of ailments, but is most commonly used for conditions related to women's health. These include menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and menopausal symptoms. Some people also use Dong Quai to help manage high blood pressure, anemia, and allergies.

Active Ingredients[edit | edit source]

The active ingredients in Dong Quai are primarily found in the root of the plant. These include coumarins, phytosterols, polysaccharides, and flavonoids. These compounds are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and vasodilatory effects.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

While Dong Quai is generally considered safe for most people when used appropriately, it can cause some side effects. These can include skin sensitivity to sunlight, upset stomach, and heavy menstrual bleeding. It may also interact with certain medications, so it's important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Research[edit | edit source]

While there is some evidence to support the use of Dong Quai for certain health conditions, more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks. Some studies have suggested that it may help to reduce symptoms of menopause and premenstrual syndrome, but these findings are not conclusive.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Dong quai Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD