The name dong quai is often translated as “return to order,” because the herb is thought to help restore normal, healthy function to various body systems and to the body as a whole. Dong quai is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to help treat a variety of ailments. It is also known as Angelica sinensis and is an important part of the Chinese herbal pharmacopeia. It is believed to have a wide range of benefits, including alleviating menstrual cramps, reducing inflammation, and improving circulation. In this post, we will take a closer look at the benefits of dong quai and how it can be used to improve your health and wellbeing. We will also discuss some of the potential side effects and precautions that should be taken when using this herb. Finally, we will provide some tips on where to buy dong quai and how to prepare it for use.
History and Origin
Dong quai, also known as Angelica sinensis, has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. It is native to China, Japan, and Korea and is a member of the parsley family. It has been used for a variety of ailments, including menstrual cramps, anemia, fatigue, and menopausal symptoms. In recent years, it has become popular in the United States as a dietary supplement for many of the same conditions. It is also believed to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. In terms of spiritual belief systems, traditional Chinese medicine views dong quai as a source of qi, or life energy. This is believed to help balance the yin and yang energies in the body, and to help maintain good health and vitality. Additionally, some believe that dong quai can be used to aid spiritual development and to help open up one’s spiritual channels. Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is closely related to the European Angelica archangelica, a common garden herb and the flavoring in Benedictine and Chartreuse liqueurs.
Dong Quai vs Black Cohosh
Both herbs used for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Dong Quai is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine to help regulate hormones and reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Black Cohosh is an herb that is native to North America and has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including menstrual cramps, hot flashes, and other menopausal symptoms. Both herbs have been shown to be effective in reducing menopausal symptoms, although Dong Quai appears to have a more powerful effect. Black Cohosh is generally considered to be safe, but it has been linked to liver damage in some cases. It is considered to be safe for most people, but it is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women.
Dong Quai Nutrition Facts and Calories Chart
It is a root vegetable that is native to China and is used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is a rich source of vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, C, B6, and E, as well as thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. Also a good source of dietary fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. Nutritional value per 100 g Dong Quai:
- Biotin: 0.4 mcg
- Calcium: 28 mg
- Carbohydrates (Carbs): 11 g
- Chloride: 17 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Choline: 0.4 mg
- Chromium: 0.2 mcg
- Copper: 0.2 mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1.2 g
- Energy (Calories): 39 kcal
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Iodine: 0.2 mcg
- Iron: 3 mg
- Magnesium: 53 mg
- Manganese: 0.1 mg
- Molybdenum: 0.3 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid: 0.2 mg
- Phosphorus: 25 mg
- Potassium: 163 mg
- Protein: 2.3 g
- Saturated fat: 0.1 g
- Selenium: 0.7 mcg
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Sugars: 0.7 g
- Vitamin A: 30 IU
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): 0.1 mg
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 0.1 mg
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 0.6 mg
- Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): 0.2 mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.2 mg
- Vitamin B9 (Folate / Folic Acid): 6 mcg
- Vitamin B12: 0 mcg
- Vitamin C: 0.7 mg
- Vitamin D: 0 IU
- Vitamin E: 0.2 mg
- Vitamin K: 0.2 mcg
- Water: 5.3 g
- Zinc: 0.3 mg
Women’s Health Benefits
Dong quai is a traditional Chinese herb often used for treating women’s health issues. It is also known as female ginseng and is believed to have many health benefits. The herb has been used for centuries to treat menstrual cramps and symptoms of menopause. It is thought to help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation, which may help to reduce many of the common symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Dong quai is also thought to help increase energy levels and reduce fatigue, both of which can be beneficial for women. It may also be beneficial for women who are trying to conceive or dealing with fertility issues. Dong quai contains contain psoralen, which is sometimes used in combination with ultraviolet therapy as a treatment for psoriasis. The herb is available in capsule, powder, or liquid form.
- Hormonal Balance: Dong quai is a popular herbal remedy used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to promote hormonal balance. It is believed to help regulate estrogen levels and promote hormonal balance. It is often used to help ease symptoms of PMS, menopause, and fertility issues. It is also believed to help with menstrual cramps, irregular periods, and other gynecological issues. Many women have found dong quai to be a beneficial herbal remedy for hormonal balance. However, it is important to consult a healthcare practitioner before taking dong quai to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your specific health needs.
- Hot Flashes: Dong quai may help to reduce hot flashes in women going through menopause. It is a traditional Chinese herb that helps to balance hormones, which can help to regulate the body’s temperature and reduce the intensity of hot flashes. It is important to speak to your healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplements, as they can interact with medications you are taking.
- Fertility: There is some evidence that it could help with fertility, as studies have found that dong quai may increase the quality of cervical mucus, which can help sperm to reach the egg. It is also believed to help regulate the hormones that can affect fertility. While dong quai is generally considered safe, it should not be taken without consulting a healthcare professional.
- To Induce Periods: Studies have found that dong quai may have potential benefits for reproductive health, such as to reduce menstrual pain, but no studies have shown it to be effective for inducing periods. If you are looking for natural remedies to induce periods, there are other options such as taking vitamin C or consuming certain herbs, such as ginger or parsley. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal remedies or supplements.
- Menopause: It is believed to act as a hormonal balancer and help reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and other symptoms of menopause. Additionally, it is thought to help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce menstrual cramps. It is important to note that it is not a supplement or medication and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment.
- Belly Fat: Dong quai is an herb that has been used to treat a variety of female health issues, including irregular menstrual cycles, cramps, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In recent years, it has been studied for its potential to help with weight management, specifically for reducing belly fat in women. However, there is not enough scientific evidence to back up these claims. Some animal studies have suggested that dong quai may have anti-obesity effects, but more research is needed to understand its effects in humans. Additionally, there are potential side effects associated, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking this supplement.
How To Make Dong Quai Tea?
Dong quai tea can be taken up to three times per day. It is best taken in the morning and evening, or at least 30 minutes before meals. It is important to note that this tea should not be taken by pregnant women or those with hormone-sensitive conditions such as endometriosis. Consult your doctor before consuming dong quai tea.
- Start by boiling 2 cups of water in a pot.
- Once boiling, add 2 teaspoons of dried dong quai root to the water and reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer for 10 minutes and then turn off the heat.
- Allow the tea to steep for an additional 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup.
Dong Quai In India
It is not widely available in India. It is an herbal supplement that is mostly found in Chinese or Korean stores. It can also be purchased online from various websites. It is an important herb in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. The herb is used to treat a variety of ailments, including gynecological disorders, digestive issues, and menopausal symptoms. It is believed to balance the three doshas, or energies, of the body: vata, pitta, and kapha. In addition, it is used to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and strengthen the immune system.
- Scientific Binomial: Angelica sinensis
- Common English: Chinese Angelica Root / Female Ginseng / Tang kwei / Danggui / Dang Gui
- Ayurvedic: Chandaa / Chandaamshuka / Kathachoraa
- Unani:
- Sanskrit: Choraka / Canda / Coraka / Granthiparna / Ksemaka / Taskara
- Hindi / Urdu: Chora / Choru
- Bengali
- Marathi
- Telugu
- Tamil
- Gujarati
- Kannada
- Malayalam
- Oriya
- Punjabi / Sindhi
- Assamese
- Kashmiri
- Konkani
- Manipuri
- Dogri: Chohor / Chora
- Bhojpuri
Plantation
It can be grown in the home garden and is relatively easy to care for. The herb is propagated by seed or by division. Seeds are typically sown in early spring in a light, well-draining potting mix, and they should be lightly covered with soil as they need light to germinate. Division is done in the spring or fall, and it is the preferred method of propagation. To divide, carefully dig up the root clump and separate the crowns of the plant into sections. Each section should have several buds and healthy roots. Replant the sections in individual pots with soil, and water regularly. This herb is a member of the celery family. It prefers to grow in a shady, moist environment and needs rich, well-drained soil. The ideal soil for dong quai should have a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 and should be moist but not soggy. Dong quai will also benefit from regular fertilizing with a balanced fertilizer. It is best to grow this herb in a cool climate, with temperatures ranging between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Choose a location in your garden that has full sun and well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.
- Plant dong quai seeds in spring after the last frost. Plant them 1/4 inch deep and spaced 12-18 inches apart.
- Water the seeds regularly until they germinate. Once the plants are established, water them once a week or when the soil is dry.
- Fertilize the plants every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and keep the soil temperature even.
- Harvest the leaves when they are young and tender, usually in late summer or early fall.
- Store the leaves in a cool, dry place or hang them to dry.
Dong quai can be a great addition to your home garden and can be used to make teas, tinctures, and other remedies. With just a little bit of care and attention, you can have a plentiful crop of dong quai every year. It is traditionally grown in China, Japan, and Korea. In recent years, it has also been cultivated in other countries, such as India and the United States. China is believed to be the largest producer of dong quai, followed by Japan and Korea. The best season to plant dong quai is in the spring.
Side Effects and Disadvantages
Dong quai is generally considered safe, but there are some side effects, precautions, and dangers to be aware of.
- Common side effects include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Stomach Upset
- Diarrhea
- Skin Rash or Irritation
- Some people may also experience allergic reactions, including hives, itching, and swelling.
- Should not be used by pregnant or nursing women, as it can cause uterine contractions and may affect the health of a developing baby.
- Shouldn’t be used by people with bleeding disorders, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
- People taking blood-thinning medications should also avoid dong quai, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
- Do not use the oil form of this herb.
- It is also important to talk to a doctor before taking dong quai if you have any other medical conditions or are taking any other medications.
Warning: Canadian regulations do not allow dong-quai as a non-medicinal ingredient for oral use products.