Dong Quai Information

Dong quai is an ancient Chinese herb used in Chinese medicine. The scientific name for dong quai is Angelica sinensis. It is also know as Dang Gui, Dan Gui and Tang Kuei. Dong quai is used in menopause to relieve menopausal symptoms, in particular hot flashes.

How Dong Quai Eases Symptoms

The production of estrogen and progesterone is never completely halted during perimenopause, and after menopause, a less active form of estrogen, estrone, is produced. Dong quai is believed to work by increasing the effects of these female hormones produced by the body.

Uses of Dong Quai

Dong quai was traditionally used for female disorders. This includes easing of menopause symptoms as well as other non menopause related conditions.

Dong quai can be used to treat:

When used to treat menopause symptoms, dong quai is particularly useful to relieve hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

Dong quai is best used in combination with other menopause herbs such as black cohosh. Dong quai works synergistically with other menopause herbs to produce greater relief of menopause symptoms.

Side Effects

Dong quai can increase blood sugar levels and is therefore recommended that diabetics avoid taking dong quai.

It may also cause photosensitivity, which means it makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight and can cause a rash or sunburn.

Diarrhea and abdominal bloating are other notable side effects.

Warnings

It is recommended that dong quai should not be taken by women during pregnancy or by anyone who takes blood thinnning medications such as warfarin.