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Herbal Glossary | Medicinal Glossary | Herbal Preparations | Ayervedic Formulas | Chinese Formulas Dong Quai
Scientific Names
Common Names
Parts Usually UsedRoots Description of Plant(s) and CultureThere are many varieties of wild angelicas growing in the mountains throughout North America. One of these, A. brewerii, found in the California Sierras, is a promising substitute for dong quai. The common garden angelica (A. archangelica) has the emmenagogue blood-moving properties of dong quai, but lacks the degree of sweetness necessary for tonics as dong quai has. The stubby whitish-gray roots are usually from 2-4 inches long and
have a very distinctive pungent odor. Medicinal PropertiesBlood tonic, emmenagogue, sedative, analgesic, laxative, tonic, diaphoretic,
antispasmodic Biochemical InformationAlcohols, cadinene, carotene, carvacrol, isosafrol, 0.2-0.3% essential
oil, safrol, sesquierpenes, 40% sucrose, and vitamins A, B12, and
E. Legends, Myths and StoriesThe power to prolong life is among the virtues Orientals attribute to ginseng root. Although ginseng may be taken by both men and women, Chinese healers regard it primarily as a "man's herb" whereas the female equivalent of ginseng is a root called dong quai. The best quality of Chinese dong quai root has a strong pungent aroma and taste. Korean dong quai is very mild and can be taken more often during the day. Only the hips of the root, up to the head, are in general use. The upper half is considered a great blood builder. The tails of the root are used under the direction of Chinese herbalists for emergency purposes only, to dissolve blood clots resulting from serious accidents and for expelling afterbirth that is difficult to deliver. Dong quai has been used in China for ages. The Chinese claim it has remarkable powers for nourishing female glands, rebuilding blood, and helping to delay the symptoms of old age in women. One of the most widely used herbs in the Orient, dong quai duck is
a popular Cantonese dish. UsesDong quai has been named the "female ginseng". It is an all-purpose herb for a wide range of female complaints. Used in the treatment of female problems such as hot
flashes, menopause, PMS, and
vaginal dryness. It helps women to resume normal menses after going
off "the pill." Increases the effect of ovarian/testicular hormones.
Treats all gynecological complaints; it regulates menstruation and
treats dysmenorrhea, and amenorrhea. It reduces high
blood pressure and is good for tinnitus caused by blood weakness, blurred vision and palpitations. It promotes
blood circulation and thus relieves the pain
of injuries. May prevent anemia;
is a blood tonic for
both men and women. Used for dryness of the bowels causing constipation, colds, flu, arthritis, rheumatic
pain. Formulas or DosagesIt is essential that the roots be stored in a dry place, otherwise they tend to soften and spoil. A good quality of dong quai and the Chinese method used for preparing the herb results in a potent beverage. Therefore, the Chinese women use it only once or twice a month. Since the herb is also regarded as a blood builder, Chinese healers recommend that for conditions of anemia the herb broth should be taken more often until the blood becomes normal, and thereafter only once or twice a month (for nourishing the female glands). Place 4 cups of water in a large Pyrex or enamelware container. Do not use aluminum; even stainless steel may not be used for this particular herb. Add a few pieces of lean raw chicken or beef and one small dong quai root, or half of a large one. Cover loosely and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, then allow the herb broth to cook slowly for several hours or until the liquid is reduced to 1 1/2 cups. Strain and drink the broth warm. Infusion: 1 oz. root simmered in 3 cups of water for 30 minutes
along with a little fresh ginger. Take 1 day per week as a uterine
tonic. Nutrient ContentCarotene, sucrose, minerals and vitamins A, B12, and E. How SoldAvailable in most health food stores and herb shops. Capsules: take 1 capsule for up to 3 times a day. Roots WarningAvoid use during pregnancy and if there is bloating, abdominal congestion and conditions caused by wasting. If menses is a heavy flow, avoid dong quai. Avoid if hypertensive.
Resource LinksLiveStrong.com: Dong Quai During Pregnancy University of Maryland Medical Center: Dong Quai Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Dong Quai U.S. National Library of Medicine: Dong Quai Bibliography
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Choraka
(Sanskrit name)
Planetary Herbology
, by Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., O.M.D., Lotus Press, PO Box 325, Twin Lakes. WI 53181., Copyright 1988, published 1992
, by Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D., Simon & Schuster/Fireside, Rockefeller Center 1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10020Copyright © 1996-2010 Lynn DeVries, all rights reserved.