Dong Quai (Angelica) Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide
Dong Quai is used to support female reproductive health, alleviate menstrual pain, and balance hormones.
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) is a traditional Chinese herb often referred to as “female ginseng” for its role in supporting women’s reproductive health and hormonal balance.
The root contains phytoestrogens and other active compounds that may help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menopausal symptoms, and support blood health. It is commonly used in traditional formulas or as a supplement.
Dong Quai is taken for PMS, menopause, and menstrual discomfort. While it is a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine, more high-quality studies are needed to validate its modern clinical use.
Other names & forms of Dong Quai (Angelica) supplement : angelica sinensis, dong quai, female ginseng, dong quai root, dong quai extract
Benefits
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) contains ferulic acid and ligustilide, compounds that have been shown to support estrogen metabolism and improve blood circulation in the pelvic region.
- Helps balance female hormones and ease menstrual discomfort, supporting Female Hormone Support & Menopause.
- May improve Hormonal Balance by modulating estrogenic activity.
- Promotes healthy Blood Flow & Circulation through mild vasodilation, which can alleviate cramps and fatigue.
- Contains nutrients that support overall General Health and vitality.
Dosage
The dosage of Dong Quai (Angelica) supplement can vary based on personal requirements and recommendations:
- Menstrual and menopausal support: 500–1000 mg/day of Dong Quai root extract (standardized to 1% ligustilide).
- Traditional decoction: 3–6 grams/day of dried root in tea or soup.
- Capsules: Typically 500 mg once or twice daily.
- Recommendation: Avoid during heavy menstruation or with anticoagulants.
Side Effects
Dong Quai can help balance female hormones, but some users notice mild effects as their endocrine system adapts. Watch for:
- Mild gastrointestinal upset—nausea or mild cramping—especially when taken on an empty stomach
- Occasional headache or dizziness in sensitive individuals
- Possible photosensitivity—heightened sunburn risk—especially with prolonged use
- Temporary changes in menstrual flow—lighter or heavier periods
- Rare allergic reactions—rash or itching—in those sensitive to Umbelliferae family plants
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Hormone therapies: Dong Quai’s phytoestrogens may interact with estrogen or progesterone treatments (e.g., Progesterone), potentially altering hormone levels—monitor carefully.
- Anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents: Its coumarin content may compound effects of warfarin or Garlic, raising bleeding risk—monitor coagulation.
- Photosensitizing drugs: Dong Quai can increase skin sensitivity; when used with tetracyclines or St. John’s Wort, apply sunscreen to treated areas.
- Antihypertensive drugs: Mild vasodilatory action can add to ACE inhibitors or L-Arginine, so check blood pressure.
Precautions
Before incorporating Dong Quai into your regimen, make sure none of these apply to you. If they do, consult your healthcare provider:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: May stimulate uterine contractions; avoid during pregnancy
- Individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers: May influence estrogen levels; avoid if you have breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer
- People on blood-thinning medications: Potential to increase bleeding risk; monitor clotting parameters
- Those with photosensitivity disorders: Risk of sunburn; use sunscreen and limit sun exposure
- Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior—possible interactions with anesthesia and bleeding
Studies
These studies provide scientific insights into Dong Quai (Angelica) benefits:
A 2007 double‐blind RCT in 100 pre‐menopausal women found 3 months of 40 mg/day Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) extract did not significantly change menstrual pain scores versus placebo (ns).
A 2010 crossover study reported that a single 1,000 mg dose reduced subjective hot-flash intensity by 12% versus 8% with placebo (P = 0.08), indicating no clear benefit.
A 2013 pilot RCT in 30 menopausal women found no effect of 500 mg/day for 8 weeks on Kupperman index or estrogen levels versus placebo (ns).
Despite traditional use for gynecological disorders, no large‐scale RCTs have evaluated Dong quai for endometrial health or fertility outcomes.
This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.
Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Dong Quai (Angelica) supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.