The Dong Quai Herb

(Chinese Herb)

Angelica sinensis

The Dong Quai herb is also know as Chinese angelica, Dang Guei, and Tang Kuei.

DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

The Dong Quai herb is a sturdy perennial that can grow from three to seven feet in height. It has large bright green leaves with serrated edges and hollow, fluted purplish stems and has clusters of white flowers.

It is native to the mountainous regions of China, Korea, and Japan where it is cool and damp. It grows at high altitudes along riverbanks and in moist ravines. It is a fragrant herb and has the taste of sweet, acrid , and bitter and temperature of warm.

The Dong Quai herb has been around for more than two thousand years. The Chinese used this herb as a form of medicine to help restore proper order and health to the body. It is sometimes called “female ginseng” because it is most commonly prescribed to treat the complaints of women.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Take internally for:

* arteriosclerosis

* high blood pressure

* eye disorders

* infertility

* leukemia

* hot flashes

* assist the body in using hormones

* vaginal dryness

* menstrual irregularity

* lack of menstruation

* migraine

* ovarian cysts

* PMS (premenstrual syndrome)

* psoriasis

* pain reliever

* constipation

* arthritis

* fatigue

* abscesses and sores

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE:

It is best to consult a herbalist for the proper dosage and which formula is best for use because this herb is difficult to self-prescribe.

Over the counter:The Dong Quai root is available in bulk, tincture, and capsules at Chinese pharmacies, Asian markets, and health food stores. Do not buy or use the herb if it is dry or has a greenish brown cross section.

At home:

Frying the herb in wine or vinegar will improve its effect on blood circulation.

Toasting the herb to an ash will increase its ability to stop bleeding.

Parts used: Roots

Collection: The roots are harvested when they reach maturity, three years old.

Constituents: Volatile oil, phytoestrogens, coumarins

Actions: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodics

Combinations: can be combined with Astragulas for treating fatigue associated with blood loss. It also can be combined with Honeysuckle flowers and Red Peony Root for a preparation that can reduce swelling and pain of abscesses and sores.

SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS:

Dong Quai should not be used:

* during pregnancy.

* if you are taking blood thinners.

* if you are a diabetic.

* if you are light sensitive.

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