HEART FUNCTION

Dong Quai

Angelica sinensis

also known as female ginseng

Moderate (traditional)

A Chinese angelica root, sometimes called 'female ginseng' for its long traditional use in women's health. Dong quai has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over two thousand years, almost always in formulas alongside other herbs rather than alone. Modern clinical evidence for many of the bigger claims is limited; the strongest evidence is for its traditional use in combined Chinese formulas.

Long traditional Chinese medicine use for menstrual irregularities, painful periods, and post-menopausal symptoms
Almost always used in classic Chinese formulas (TCM.">Si Wu Tang, Shi Quan Da Bu Tang) rather than alone
Traditional use as a 'blood tonic' — supports blood building and circulation in TCM theory
Mild anti-inflammatory action documented in modern research
May modestly improve menopausal symptoms, particularly in TCM-formulated combinations
Cooking-grade dong quai is added to soups and stews in Chinese household traditions

Mild blood-thinning effect — caution with blood thinners, particularly warfarin (interaction has been documented)

Stop two weeks before surgery

Skip during pregnancy — traditional use suggests stimulation of the uterus

Skip during heavy menstrual bleeding

Skip with hormone-sensitive cancers without provider guidance

Skip during nursing

Causes photosensitivity — increased sun-sensitivity in fair-skinned people

Use caution with hormone replacement therapy

Use caution with diabetes medication

Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs · EMA Herbal Medicinal Product Monographs · American Botanical Council HerbMedPro

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