Dong Quai

Latin Name: Angelica sinensis
Herb Class/Action: Uterine Tonic, Immune Support, Circulatory Tonic, Emmenagogue
Parts Used: Root
Flavors: Bitter, sweet, pungent, acrid
Energetics: Warming
Traditional Benefits: Reproductive support, women’s health support, tension support, immune support, cardiovascular support

Often called “female ginseng,” Dong Quai is the quintessential harmonizer in herbal medicine—working synergistically with other herbs to nurture, balance, and restore the body.*

A Restorative Ally

Dong Quai, native to the high-altitude mountains and woodlands of Asia, derives its name from the Chinese phrase meaning “state of return.” This poetic title perfectly encapsulates the herb’s role in helping the body return to balance and homeostasis. Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, Dong Quai is renowned for its nourishing, warming, and energizing effects, especially for the reproductive system.

As a deeply restorative herb, Dong Quai is often employed to support blood health and circulation. It is considered a “blood-builder” in traditional herbalism, promoting healthy blood flow and circulation while invigorating the body. This makes it an effective ally for minor menstrual-related concerns like mild PMS and occasional menopausal symptoms.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Wisdom

In TCM, Dong Quai is particularly valued for its ability to address a “disturbed Shen.” The Shen, or heart-mind connection, governs emotional and spiritual balance. By harmonizing the Shen, Dong Quai helps to calm and uplift the spirit while addressing physical imbalances such as cold or yang-depleted states.

Its warming and blood-moving properties make it a cornerstone for supporting vitality and balance in the body. Dong Quai’s ability to nourish and move blood aligns with its use in traditional Chinese herbal formulas for women’s health, tension support, and immune resilience.

Key Compounds and Benefits

Dong Quai’s wide-ranging benefits stem from its rich phytochemical profile:

• Coumarin Compounds: Support healthy blood circulation and vascular health.
• Phytosterols: Promote cardiovascular health and help maintain balanced hormone levels.
• Ferulic Acid: Provides antioxidant support and promotes heart health.

Harmonizer in Formulas

Dong Quai is rarely used as a stand-alone remedy. Instead, it’s most effective when combined with other herbs in synergistic formulations. Common pairings include:

• Rehmannia: For nourishing yin and blood.
• Cinnamon: To warm and invigorate circulation.
• White Peony: For calming and harmonizing.
• Osha: To support respiratory health.
• Licorice Root: For balancing and enhancing the formula’s potency.

A Balancing and Energizing Herb

As both a balancer and a modulator, Dong Quai embodies versatility. Its benefits extend beyond reproductive health to include support for cardiovascular wellness, immune resilience, and even emotional balance. Whether incorporated into a tea, tincture, or capsule, this herb is a trusted ally for restoring vitality and harmony within the body.