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Dong Quai root

Also known as: Angelica sinensis, Dong Quai, Danggui, Chinese Angelica

Overview

Dong Quai, scientifically known as *Angelica sinensis*, is a perennial herb native to China, Japan, and Korea. The dried root of the plant has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries to address a variety of health concerns, including blood replenishment, circulation, pain relief, and intestinal health. It contains volatile oils (ligustilides, terpenes), water-soluble phenylpropanoids (ferulic acid, coniferyl ferulate), polysaccharides, and coumarins. Modern applications primarily focus on women's health, particularly for managing menstrual and menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and menstrual discomfort. While Dong Quai is generally considered safe, the available clinical research is limited, with most studies being small trials or in vitro/animal models. The quality of evidence is generally low to moderate, necessitating further high-quality research to confirm its benefits and risks.

Benefits

The primary traditional use of Dong Quai is for managing menopausal and menstrual symptoms, though current research provides limited support. A systematic review and meta-analysis found inconclusive evidence for reducing hot flashes, with one RCT showing no significant difference between Dong Quai and placebo. Anecdotal evidence supports its use for menstrual health, but robust clinical data are lacking. In vitro and animal models have demonstrated antitumor, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, anti-tuberculosis, neuroprotective, and hematopoietic effects, but these findings have not been consistently replicated in human studies. Polysaccharides from Dong Quai root have shown protective effects against chemotherapy- and radiation-induced toxicity in animal models. While some women may experience mild relief from menstrual and menopausal symptoms, the evidence is not strong.

How it works

Dong Quai's mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve multiple biological pathways. Some evidence suggests mild estrogenic effects, although this has not been consistently demonstrated in clinical studies. The polysaccharides and phenylpropanoids present in Dong Quai may contribute to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It may modulate estrogen receptors and its polysaccharides may support immune function. At the molecular level, it may target estrogen receptors (ERα/ERβ), NF-κB, and inflammatory cytokines. The absorption and bioavailability of its active constituents, such as ligustilides and ferulic acid, are not well characterized in humans.

Side effects

Dong Quai is generally considered safe at typical doses, but long-term safety data are limited. Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal upset and headache. Uncommon side effects may include photosensitivity and allergic reactions. Rare side effects include severe allergic reactions and liver toxicity, based on case reports. Due to its coumarin content, Dong Quai may increase bleeding risk, especially when taken with anticoagulants. There is a theoretical risk of interaction with hormonal therapies due to its potential estrogenic activity. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulation. Its use should be avoided in individuals with breast cancer due to theoretical estrogenic activity, although the evidence is inconclusive. Caution is advised in children and the elderly due to potential drug interactions.

Dosage

Traditional doses of Dong Quai range from 3–15 g of dried root per day. Optimal dosage ranges are typically between 3–9 g of dried root per day, or an equivalent extract, taken in divided doses with meals. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but exceeding traditional doses should be avoided. When using extracts, standardization to ligustilide or ferulic acid content is recommended, if available. The fat-soluble constituents may benefit from dietary fat intake to enhance absorption. There are no established required cofactors. It is important to note that these are general guidelines, and individual needs may vary.

FAQs

Is Dong Quai effective for menopausal symptoms?

Evidence is limited. Some women report mild relief, but clinical trials have not shown significant benefits compared to placebo. It is not a proven treatment for hot flashes or other menopausal symptoms.

Is Dong Quai safe?

Generally safe at typical doses, but caution is advised if you are taking anticoagulants or hormonal therapies. Avoid during pregnancy. Consult with a healthcare provider before use.

How should I take Dong Quai?

It is best taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset. Follow the dosage recommendations on the product label or as advised by your healthcare provider. Start with a low dose to assess tolerance.

Can Dong Quai be used as a substitute for hormone therapy?

No, Dong Quai is not a proven substitute for hormone therapy. Its estrogenic activity is mild and inconsistent. Consult with your doctor about appropriate treatment options for hormonal imbalances.

What are the expected results from taking Dong Quai?

Mild relief of menopausal or menstrual symptoms may be experienced, but results vary. It is not a cure-all for women’s health issues, and its efficacy is not strongly supported by clinical evidence.

Research Sources

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/dong-quai – Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center provides an overview of Dong Quai, highlighting its traditional uses and potential pharmacological effects based on in vitro and animal studies. These studies suggest antitumor, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, neuroprotective, and hematopoietic effects. However, the site emphasizes that these findings are preclinical and may not directly translate to humans.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2811999/ – This randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of Dong Quai for menopausal hot flashes in 71 postmenopausal women over 12 weeks. The study found no significant difference in hot flash frequency or severity between the Dong Quai and placebo groups, suggesting that Dong Quai is not effective for treating hot flashes.
https://www.xiahepublishing.com/m/2835-6357/FIM-2023-00002 – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the estrogenic activity of Dong Quai and its potential impact on breast cancer risk. The review found inconclusive evidence for increased breast cancer risk, with some studies suggesting mild estrogenic activity, but the clinical significance remains unclear. The authors highlight the heterogeneity of the included studies and the limited number of high-quality human trials.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-936/dong-quai – WebMD provides general information about Dong Quai, including its uses, potential side effects, and drug interactions. It notes that Dong Quai may increase bleeding risk, especially when taken with anticoagulants, and advises caution with hormonal therapies. The information is intended for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice.
https://taylorandfrancis.com/knowledge/Medicine_and_healthcare/Clinical_nutrition/Angelica_sinensis/ – This resource provides a comprehensive overview of Angelica sinensis, covering its botanical characteristics, traditional uses, chemical constituents, and pharmacological activities. It highlights the presence of volatile oils, phenylpropanoids, polysaccharides, and coumarins, and discusses their potential roles in the herb's therapeutic effects.