Rootwork

Dong Quai

Angelica sinensis

ApiaceaeChina, Korea, and Japan

Description

overall appearance

Perennial herb growing 2-3 feet tall with pinnately compound leaves and white umbrella-like flower clusters; develops a thick, aromatic root.

roots

Thick, branched taproot with a distinctive sweet, pungent aroma; roots are tan to brown externally, whitish to yellowish internally, and have a sweet then bitter taste.

stem

Hollow, ridged stems that are purple-tinged and smooth; stems branch toward the top to support the umbrella-like flower clusters.

leaves

Large, alternate, pinnately compound leaves with multiple leaflets; leaflets are ovate with serrated margins and can be 2-3 inches long.

flowers

Small, white flowers arranged in large, compound umbels (umbrella-like clusters) 4-6 inches across; flowers bloom from July to August.

fruits/seeds

Small, oval, ribbed fruits (schizocarps) that split into two one-seeded halves; fruits are brown and aromatic when mature.

Botanical illustration of Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)

Active Compounds

Phthalides (ligustilide, butylidenephthalide)Coumarins (osthole, angelicin, bergapten)Ferulic acid and other phenolic acidsPolysaccharidesEssential oils (safrole, eugenol)Vitamins (especially B12, folate) and minerals

Traditional Uses

  • Menstrual irregularities and painful menstruation
  • Menopausal symptoms and hormonal balance
  • Blood deficiency and anemia (Traditional Chinese Medicine)
  • Digestive weakness and poor appetite
  • Circulation problems and cold extremities
  • Arthritis and joint pain
  • Post-partum recovery and lactation support

Modern Applications

  • Menstrual cycle regulation and PMS relief
  • Menopausal symptom management
  • Cardiovascular health and circulation
  • Anti-inflammatory effects for arthritis
  • Liver protection and detoxification
  • Immune system support
  • Potential neuroprotective effects

⚠️ Safety Information

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy (may stimulate uterine contractions)
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding (may increase bleeding)
  • Acute diarrhea or digestive inflammation
  • Blood clotting disorders
  • Hormone-sensitive cancers

Side Effects

  • Increased menstrual bleeding
  • Gastrointestinal upset or diarrhea
  • Photosensitivity (skin sensitivity to sunlight)
  • Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals

Drug Interactions

  • Blood-thinning medications (may enhance effects)
  • Hormone medications (may interact)
  • Digoxin (may affect levels)
  • Photosensitizing medications

Parts Used

  • Roots (primary medicinal part)
  • Occasionally aerial parts in traditional preparations

Preparation Methods

3-15 grams dried root per day, simmered 20-30 minutes

Traditional preparation with rice wine

1:5 ratio in 60% alcohol, 2-4 ml twice daily

1-3 grams powdered root daily

Often used with other herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Related Plants

Angelica

Angelica archangelica

Apiaceae
Digestive disorders and poor appetiteRespiratory conditions and bronchitisNervous exhaustion and anxiety

Ashitaba

Angelica keiskei

Apiaceae
Hachijojima Island tradition: consumed daily as a longevity vegetable by the famously long-lived island population; 'tomorrow's leaf' symbolizing vitality and renewalTraditional Japanese Kampo medicine: used for general debility, blood purification, and to invigorate the body; classified as warming and tonifyingTraditional use in Izu Islands for colds, fever reduction, and respiratory infections

Celery Seed

Apium graveolens

Apiaceae
Ancient Indian Ayurvedic medicine uses ajmod (celery seed) for gout, arthritis, rheumatism, kidney disease, and urinary disordersAncient Egyptian and Greco-Roman use: Dioscorides recommended celery seed as a diuretic, for urinary stones, and to regulate menstruationTraditional use throughout South Asia for hypertension, high uric acid, and as an anti-inflammatory

Cinnamon

Cinnamomum verum

Lauraceae
Digestive disorders and stomach complaintsCold and flu symptomsMenstrual irregularities and reproductive health

Rehmannia

Rehmannia glutinosa

Orobanchaceae
Traditional Chinese medicine: 'Di Huang' — foundational yin tonic; one of the 50 fundamental herbs; used for over 2,500 years; primary herb to replenish Kidney essence (Jing) and nourish Liver bloodLiu Wei Di Huang Wan (Six-Flavor Rehmannia Pill): one of the most widely prescribed Chinese classical formulas worldwide; Shu Di Huang as the chief herb; used for Kidney yin deficiency — tinnitus, blurred vision, sore lower back, night sweats, heat in the palmsZhi Bai Di Huang Wan: Liu Wei formula plus Phellodendron and Anemarrhena for more pronounced heat-clearing yin tonic action in menopausal women

Turmeric

Curcuma longa

Zingiberaceae
Ayurvedic medicine for inflammation, digestive disorders, skin conditionsTraditional Chinese Medicine for blood stagnation and qi circulationWound healing and antiseptic applications
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.