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Home > Vitamins and Herbs > Dong Quai
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Dong Quai
Dong Quai consists of the root of the Chinese plant Angelica polymorpha Maxim. var sinensis Oliv., also known as A. sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, a member of the family Apiaceae. The medication is mildly laxative, although it is used primarily for its uterine tonic, antispasmodic, and alterative (blood purifying) effects.
It is recommended by modern herbalists for the treatment of almost every gynecological ailment, including menstrual cramps, irregularity or retarded flow, and weakness during the menstrual period. Dong quai is also said to bring relief from the symptoms of menopause, but should not be used during pregnancy. In addition, it is thought to be a useful antispasmodic and of value in the treatment of hypertension. Its reputation also extends to blood "purification" and "nourishment," and finally, to treating constipation.
Under chemical investigation, seven different coumarin derivatives have been identified in dong quai, including oxypeucedanin, osthole, imperatorin, psoralen, and bergapten. Many coumarins are known to act as vasodilators and antispasmodics; others, such as osthole, have a stimulating action on the central nervous system. Thus, at least some of the purported activities of dong quai could be accounted for by these compounds.
However, large doses of coumarins are not without undesirable effects, and the furocoumarins, such as psoralen and bergapten, are prone to cause photosensitization that may result in a type of dermatitis in persons exposed to them. In 1981, investigators concluded that these so-called psoralens present sufficient risks to humans that all unnecessary exposure to them should be avoided. For this reason, large amounts of a furocoumarin-containing medication such as dong quai cannot be recommended. Substantial clinical evidence is lacking in Western scientific literature to support the effectiveness of dong quai for the various conditions for which it is advocated. The only U.S. study of the effects of dong quai on postmenopausal symptoms (night sweats, hot flashes) found it to be no more effective than a placebo. Dong-quai is one of the most widely pre- scribed medications in traditional Chinese medicine and is more widely used than other popular herbs such as ginseng. Dong quai is generally used in combination with other ingredients. For acceptance in Western societies, controlled clinical studies should be conducted. Until then, there is little reason to utilize it as a therapeutic agent.
Dong Quai is the best Chinese tonic herb for women, although it can also be used for men, and is the most highly valued blood tonic in the East. Dong Quairegulates hormones, menstruation, brings on delayed or suppressed periods, relieves menstrual cramps, and can be used during the menopause. Eaten raw or taken as a tincture, Dong Quai relaxes the uterus, used with water it tones the uterus and stimulates uterine contractions, increasing circulation and relieving congestion in the pelvic area. It is best not to take it during pregnancy.
When cooked, dang gui is stimulating, antispasmodic and warming. Dang gui improves the circulation, speeds tissue repair, lowers blood pressure, slows the pulse, helps prevent atherosclerosis and blood clots and relaxes the muscles of the heart. Chinese angelica also acts as a sedative. Dong Quai is nourishing, containing vitamins, and aids the absorption and utilization of vitamin E. Dong Quai is used for anemia and angina.
Dong Quai stabilizes blood sugar levels and enhances the function of the immune system. Dong Quai has bactericidal, antiviral and antifungal properties and is a wonderful remedy for a whole range of infections, including colds and flu. Dong Quai is a valuable blood purifier and a moistening remedy to relieve constipation. Dong Quai has rejuvenative properties and helps to relieve arthritis and rheumatic pain. As a tonic Dong Quai is recommended in convalescence, and to speed recovery and increase energy after childbirth.
DONG QUAI USES
Blood tonic - Famous in China as a tonic, Dong Quai is taken for "deficient blood" conditions, anemia, and for the symptoms of anemia due to blood loss -a pale complexion, palpitations, and lowered vitality.
Women's health - Dong Quai regulates the menstrual cycle, relieves menstrual pains and cramps, and is an ideal tonic for women with heavy menstrual bleeding who risk becoming anemic. However, as it stimulates menstrual bleeding, other tonic herbs, such as nettle, are best taken during menstruation if the flow is heavy. It is also a uterine tonic and helps infertility.
Circulation - Dong Quai is a "warming" herb, improving the circulation to the abdomen, and to the hands and feet. It strengthens the digestion and is also useful in the treatment of abscesses and boils.
HABITAT AND CULTIVATION
Dong Quai is native to China and Japan, where it is now cultivated. The best rhizomes are in Gansu province in China. Seed is sown in spring, and the rhizomes are lifted in autumn.
RESEARCH
Gynecology - Research in China from the 1970s has shown that the herb regulates uterine contractions, which may explain its benefit for menstrual pain.
Whole plant - Research shows that the whole plant, including the rhizome, strengthens liver function. The whole rhizome has an antibiotic effect.
CONSTITUENTS
Chinese angelica contains volatile oil, bitter iridoids, resin, coumarins, valerianic acid, tannins, bergapten; vitamins A and B also reported in Chinese species.
HOW MUCH TO TAKE
The powdered root can be used in capsules, tablets, tinctures, or as a tea. Many women take 3-4 grams per day.
SIDE EFFECTS AND CAUTIONS
Dong quai is generally considered to be of extremely low toxicity; It may cause some fair-skinned persons to become more sensitive to sunlight. Persons using it on a regular basis should limit prolonged exposure to the sun or other sources of ultraviolet radiation. Dong quai is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.
HOW DONG QUAI WORKS IN THE BODY
Dong Quai's constituents make it especially useful for treating women's reproductive problems. Its combined action as a circulatory and blood tonic mean it is useful in menopause for symptoms including aches, and pains, as well as helping with irregular and absent periods. Its antispasmodic actions also help with painful periods. In China it is used to nourish the blood and prevent anemia, blurred vision, tinnitus, and palpitations. Like garden angelica it is a warming, carminative herb for the digestion and has been found to help where there is long-term liver damage or infection. Chinese indications are particularly in cases of constipation. The rhizome has an antibiotic quality, and it is used in cases where there are sores and abscesses. The Chinese properties are that of sweet, acrid, bitter, and warm.
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