Dong Quai:
Dong Quai and Reproductive Health
Like wild yam, dong quai is a natural herbal remedy whose use dates back thousands of years. Generation after generation, Asian societies have used dong quai as a tonic for the female reproductive system. Dong quai actually ranks a little below ginseng as the most frequently used herb in Japan and China.
Origin of dong quai
Dong quai is portions of the root of the Chinese perennial plant angelica sinensis and from the root of the A. acutiloba plant in Japan. Both species of plant have eight foot hollow stems crowned with umbrella shaped clusters of white flowers. The blossoms of each plant resemble its relative, Queen Anne's lace. Currently in Europe, dong quai is being to treat a variety of symptoms, both gynecological and non-gynecological.Like wild yam, the most common uses of dong quai remain to be for women, as it's thought this herb helps promote uterine health and maintain regular menstrual cycles. A degree of research suggests that the coumarins contained in dong quai are responsible for this effect. Coumarins dilate blood vessels, stimulate the nervous system, and increase blood flow through the body. It's believed coumarins may also relax the muscles of the uterus, which helps explain the effectiveness of dong quai at soothing menstrual cramps.
Dong quai is also thought to help relieve PMS symptoms. The reputation of dong quai as a female tonic is largely a result of its ability to lessen the problems of PMS and also to regulate menstrual cycles. Many women have used dong quai to treat amenorrhea (missing or irregular menstrual cycles) and hemorrhagic (prolonged, chronic, or heavy periods). It's thought that the antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory actions of the herb are responsible for its purported healing effects.
Dong quai may also help reduce the pain associated with endometriosis, especially when used in combination with chasteberry. When used in combination with black cohosh, chasteberry, and ginseng, dong quai appears to be helpful in controlling hot flashes associated with menopause.Other uses
Dong quai is also a rich source of vitamin B12. Therefore, it's thought to play a role in stimulating the production of red blood cells in the body. Using dong quai in combination with other herbs is thought to provide mild dilation of blood vessels, which may lead to increased blood flow and increased pumping of blood from the heart. Because of this, traditional Chinese doctors have long prescribed dong quai for circulation problems and high blood pressure.Dong quai is available in a variety of different forms, including a tincture, tablets, capsules, soft gels, and liquid. You can also make a soothing tea from dong quai by using its dried herb form found in health stores.
When shopping for dong quai in soft gels, tablets, or capsules,choose brands that have been standardized to contain a liguistilide concentration of between 0.8% and 1.1%.
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