Chinese angelica (dong quai) – how does female ginseng work?
Chinese angelica is an essential ingredient in Chinese pharmacopoeia. Used as a spice, tonic and medicinal plant, it plays an integral role in traditional Chinese medicine. The Chinese name Dong Quai translates as ‘female ginseng’, telling us a lot about its health-promoting and medicinal properties. Chinese angelica has been the subject of numerous studies over the years, which have proven its spectacular benefits. So what should we know about this inconspicuous plant?
Chinese angelica – a plant with numerous health benefits
Traditional Chinese medicine attributes Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) with beneficial effects on circulatory disorders and intimate problems. Asian tradition uses angelica as a key ingredient in several special remedies that are supposed to contribute to the proper functioning of the female reproductive system.
Chinese angelica belongs to the celery family and is used primarily for gastrointestinal disorders. Its active ingredients also strengthen the immune system and are used successfully in the treatment of colds. Chinese angelica root is also used in natural medicine. Dong Quai has been proven to affect many functions of our body, characterised by the following effects:
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Antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects – many of the benefits of Chinese angelica are due to the essential oil contained in the plant. It inhibits uterine contractions and reduces inflammatory pain, making Dong Quai a useful herb in the fight against menstrual pain, such as painful periods;
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Neuroprotective effect – a compound called butylidenephthalide has been discovered among the active substances in Chinese angelica. It has also been shown that this compound and its metabolites may be particularly effective neuroprotective agents in the treatment of Parkinson's disease;
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Anticancer effect – it is assumed that the active compounds contained in the plant may have anticancer potential. Furthermore, one of the many studies conducted on this basis made it possible to isolate a certain polysaccharide from Chinese angelica, which was characterised by cytotoxic activity. This study therefore highlighted the potential of Chinese angelica in the fight against cervical cancer;
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Immunostimulatory effect – due to its high concentration of neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and body-stimulating compounds, Chinese angelica also has an immunomodulatory effect on the body. It regulates the immune system, protecting us from dangerous pathogens, fungi and viruses.
Dong Quai Chinese angelica – medicinal properties of the Asian root
Chinese angelica is a rich source of phytoestrogens and is used primarily in natural medicine to provide energy, as a natural stimulant and as an extract to help restore regular menstrual cycles in women of childbearing age, and during climacteric and menopause. Scientists have identified about 60 active substances in the plant. These include essential oils, but also furanocoumarins such as bergapten, coumarins and flavonoids.
Dong quai extracts have a bitter taste, which causes increased secretion of gastric acid, bile acids and pancreatic enzymes. It therefore stimulates the patient's appetite and supports the body's digestive functions. In addition, an antispasmodic effect can be observed, which is probably based on the therapeutic effect of furanocoumarins. These are secondary plant substances that affect the calcium channels of the central nervous system, thus having a relaxing effect on smooth muscles.
Chinese angelica – what is it good for?
Ancient traditional Chinese medicine emphasises the visible effectiveness of Angelica sinensis in the prevention and treatment of many health conditions. Although modern medicine does not confirm all the benefits of the plant, it is known that its properties are particularly helpful including in:
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Treating constipation – the bitter active substances contained in the plant promote the secretion of gastric juices. It stimulates digestion and relieves existing constipation. People suffering from hyperacidity or diarrhoea should avoid using Chinese angelica, as it can significantly worsen existing symptoms;
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Treatment of menstrual cramps and pain – many women experience severe, painful symptoms during menstruation, causing significant discomfort in their daily lives. Angelica sinensis has a relaxing and antispasmodic effect on the entire body. It alleviates the symptoms typical of painful menstruation, providing significant comfort;
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Treatment of rheumatism and arthritis – joint diseases are becoming increasingly common, especially among older people. With age, the likelihood of developing rheumatism, arthritis and arthrosis increases. Chinese angelica seems to be a helpful remedy here. When taken orally or applied as an oil or balm, it has a relaxing and anti-inflammatory effect on sore joints, bringing relief and significantly reducing the negative symptoms of inflammation.
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Treatment of neuralgia – Neuralgia is a condition that often occurs as a result of increased pressure or existing inflammation. Treatment is selected depending on the severity of the disease and the intensity of the pain. Some studies emphasise that the analgesic and sedative effects of Chinese angelica can be an effective alternative to modern methods of treating neuralgia.
Chinese angelica and menopause – is it helpful?
Traditional Chinese medicine usually uses dong quai to treat hormonal changes in women, considering it a ‘blood-nourishing’ plant. Dong quai reduces hot flushes, vaginal dryness and insomnia, which are common during the climacteric and menopause. Its effect is due to the fact that it supports the production of progesterone, a hormone whose levels drop significantly during the menopause.
Dong quai for the endometrium – how does it support uterine health?
The endometrium, the innermost layer of the lining of the uterus, the main reproductive organ, is exposed to a number of harmful factors that can disrupt its functioning and thus our health. One of these is the disruption of oestrogen production, one of the most important female hormones before and during menopause. The deregulation of its production contributes to visible headaches, hot flushes, and endometrial movement disorders, which undergo a slow change due to increased circulation and frequency of contractions.
Chinese angelica seems to prevent this situation by positively affecting the endometrial tissue. It reduces inflammation, tones the lining and stimulates circulation, revitalising the reproductive organs and protecting them from potential damage.
Different forms of Dong quai - tablets and teas
Chinese angelica is best known in the form of tea. It can be purchased in tea bags or in loose, powdered form. For loose angelica, you need about one heaped teaspoon per cup. Pour boiling water over the herb and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. Chinese angelica tea helps with stomach, menopausal and menstrual problems.
Another equally popular form of Chinese angelica supplementation are tablets with a high concentration of the active ingredients contained in dong quai. As with tea, small amounts are enough to harness the full potential of the plant. Tablets are a good alternative to traditional angelica tea, if only because they save time.
Chinese angelica – how to use and dose?
As already mentioned, Chinese angelica is usually consumed as a dietary supplement in the form of tablets and herbal teas. To enjoy the optimal quality of the selected product, it is recommended to choose organic plants and tablets from certified manufacturers.
As for the dosage, it depends on the form of the supplement. It is important to read the manufacturer's recommendations on the packaging in order to follow the recommended doses. It is recommended to take 2 to 3 capsules before meals during the day for a period of one to two months.
Chinese angelica - side effects and contraindications
Chinese angelica, known as female ginseng, despite its naturalness, has certain contraindications. Dong quai and preparations based on its composition are not recommended for:
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People who have not reached sexual maturity
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Pregnant or breastfeeding women
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Women with heavy periods
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Women who have had uterine, ovarian or breast cancer in the past.
Furthermore, due to the presence of photosensitising substances, it is also not recommended to go out in the sun immediately after consuming a product containing Chinese angelica.
Bibliography
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