Dong quai, one of the most important of the Chinese tonic herbs, is used as a nourishing blood tonic and to support the menstrual cycle. Dong Quai has been used for centuries by Asian healers to support balance of female hormones and to promote hormonal health during the menopause and peri-menopause. More recently, clinical research has confirmed the effectiveness of this tonic herb.

While conventional medicine works by often treating just the symptoms, natural medicine strives to create holistic balance in the body to support systemic health, relieve ailments, and help prevent future disease. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, the natural ingredients in our remedies support overall health and functioning (rather than just suppressing symptoms).

Dong quai herb, also known as Angelica sinensis or danggui, is one of the most respected herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. Extensively used also in Korea and Japan, dong quai is considered the “female ginseng” and used extensively to treat a variety of gynecological complaints, from hot flashes to lack of sleep due to hormonal changes. While both men and women can obtain benefits from using dong quai, the herb has long had a reputation for regulating female functions.

It is prescribed by natural doctors to treat menopausal symptoms and hormonal changes, and to induce the relaxation of uterine muscles. Dong quai is often combined with black cohosh to treat PMS, and is sometimes prescribed to women suffering from endometriosis. Because of its intense effect on the reproductive system, dong quai is not recommended during pregnancy.

As a general medicinal aid, dong quai has long been touted to be able to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, lower high blood pressure, and promote blood circulation. New studies suggest this may be true, especially when dong quai is combined with ginseng. Dong quai is also high in vitamins A, E, and B12 and rich in flavonoids (antioxidants), coumarins (anticoagulants), and ferulate, useful in the prevention of thrombosis and cerebrovascular diseases. Dong quai is sometimes recommended as a strengthening treatment for the liver and kidneys, as some of the components of the herb seem to have blood cleansing capabilities.

This natural herb dong quai is available in capsule and tablet form by name brands like Solaray, Natures Plus and Natures Way. Look to your local or internet health food store for name brands such as the ones listed above to ensure quality and purity of the products your purchase.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Natural dong quai is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.