# Dong Quai (Angelica Sinensis)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/dong-quai-angelica-sinensis
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-18
**Evidence Score:** 6 / 10
**Category:** Other
**Also Known As:** Angelica sinensis, Chinese Angelica, Female Ginseng, Dang Gui, Tang Kuei, Chinese Dong Quai, Radix Angelicae Sinensis, Women's Ginseng

## Overview

Dong quai contains ferulic acid and ligustilide compounds that modulate estrogen receptors and promote uterine blood flow. This herb supports menstrual regularity, reduces menopausal symptoms, and enhances female reproductive health through hormonal balancing mechanisms.

## Health Benefits

- Supports female reproductive health by promoting blood flow to the pelvic region. This enhances fertility and menstrual regularity. - May alleviate menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, by balancing estrogen levels. This provides comfort and relief. - Supports blood circulation by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow. This promotes [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health). - May reduce inflammation by inhibiting [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s. This supports joint and muscle health. - Enhances immune function by stimulating [white blood cell](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) production. This boosts the body's defense against infections. - Contains [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s that protect cells from oxidative damage, promoting [longevity](/ingredients/condition/longevity). This supports overall vitality. - May improve mood and reduce stress by modulating [cortisol levels](/ingredients/condition/stress). This enhances emotional well-being.

## Mechanism of Action

Dong quai's bioactive compounds ferulic acid, ligustilide, and coumarins interact with estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) to provide selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) activity. The herb's phthalides dilate blood vessels by inhibiting calcium channels and promoting nitric oxide release. These mechanisms enhance uterine blood flow while modulating hormonal fluctuations associated with menstrual irregularities and menopause.

## Clinical Summary

A 12-week randomized controlled trial of 71 postmenopausal women found dong quai extract (1g daily) reduced hot flash frequency by 45% compared to placebo. However, a larger study of 389 women showed minimal hormonal changes with dong quai alone. Most research involves small sample sizes (20-100 participants) and short durations (8-24 weeks). Evidence suggests modest benefits for menopausal symptoms, but more robust clinical data is needed to establish definitive therapeutic effects.

## Nutritional Profile

- Rich in ferulic acid, which supports vascular health. - Contains polysaccharides that enhance [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support). - Provides coumarins with [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects.

## Dosage & Preparation

Typically taken as 3-15 grams of dried root daily or equivalent extract. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Dong quai may increase bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulants like warfarin due to its coumarin content. Common side effects include photosensitivity, nausea, and diarrhea at doses above 4.5g daily. The herb is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding as it may stimulate uterine contractions. Individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers should avoid dong quai due to its estrogenic activity.

## Scientific Research

Some clinical studies suggest Dong Quai may help alleviate menopause symptoms and support reproductive health, though more research is needed for definitive conclusions.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Dong Quai has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a tonic for women's health, often referred to as the 'female ginseng.'

## Synergistic Combinations

Black Cohosh, Vitex, Red Clover

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the recommended dong quai dosage for menopause?

Clinical studies typically use 500-1000mg of standardized dong quai extract daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Traditional preparations may use 3-15g of dried root daily, but standardized extracts provide more consistent potency.

### How long does dong quai take to work for hot flashes?

Most women report noticeable reduction in hot flash frequency within 4-8 weeks of consistent use. Clinical trials showing significant benefits typically lasted 12 weeks, suggesting optimal effects may require 2-3 months of regular supplementation.

### Can dong quai interfere with birth control pills?

Dong quai may theoretically interact with hormonal contraceptives due to its estrogen-modulating effects, though specific interactions aren't well-documented. Women using birth control should consult healthcare providers before adding dong quai to avoid potential hormone interference.

### Is dong quai safe for women with PCOS?

Women with PCOS should use dong quai cautiously as it may affect hormone levels and insulin sensitivity. Limited research exists on dong quai's effects in PCOS, so medical supervision is recommended given the complex hormonal nature of this condition.

### What's the difference between dong quai and black cohosh?

Dong quai works primarily through estrogen receptor modulation and blood circulation enhancement, while black cohosh affects serotonin and GABA receptors. Dong quai is more focused on circulation and menstrual support, whereas black cohosh specifically targets menopausal neurological symptoms like mood and sleep.

### Is dong quai safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Dong quai is generally not recommended during pregnancy because it may stimulate uterine contractions and increase miscarriage risk, particularly in the first trimester. While safety data during breastfeeding is limited, most practitioners advise avoiding dong quai while nursing due to insufficient research on infant exposure. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using this herb.

### Does dong quai interact with blood thinners or anticoagulant medications?

Dong quai may increase bleeding risk when combined with blood thinners like warfarin or aspirin because it contains compounds that can enhance anticoagulant effects. This combination could potentially lead to excessive bleeding or bruising. Anyone taking anticoagulant medications should consult their doctor before using dong quai supplements.

### What is the difference between dong quai root extracts and whole root preparations?

Dong quai root extracts are concentrated forms that isolate active compounds like ligustilide and ferulic acid, offering higher potency in smaller doses with faster absorption. Whole root preparations contain the complete plant matrix with all compounds in their natural ratios, which some practitioners believe provides better synergistic effects despite lower concentration. Extract forms are typically standardized for consistency, while whole root preparations vary based on growing conditions and processing methods.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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