Dong Quai

Angelica sinensis

Dong Quai

This is another plant belonging to the Apiaceae family, the same family as the carrot. The roots of Dong Quai or Tang-Keui/Danggui have been used in good faith by practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for numerous health concerns including: gynecological, blood, and female reproductive issues. It is thought to nourish the blood in TCM and is included in recipes for post-partum nourishment to be cooked with other herbs and food into a stew. It is an official herb in the pharmacopeia of the People’s Republic of China.

What is Dong Quai Used For?

The indications for this herb in TCM are clear, to circulate and nourish the blood. Here we are referring to the system of Blood, and not the liquid we commonly think of in our veins. The herb is sweet, acrid, bitter and warm. These are all energetic qualities known to harmonize and invigorate. It is used for convalescence, and feelings of weakness, chilliness and frailty, especially in Women. The herb alone and in conjunction with other botanicals in a formula provides a natural hormonal balance during the onset of menopause and is a good support for the peri-menopause and menopausal years.