Dong quai is a spice
tonic used in Japan, Korea and China for over a thousand years. Though there isn’t much research on dong quai, it is believed to ease constipation and increase the count of red blood cells thereby helping in treating anemia.
Dong quai also provides relief from menstrual disorders such as infrequent periods, cramps, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and menopausal symptoms, and irregular menstrual cycles. In traditional Chinese Medicine,
dong quai is used for treating reproductive, circulatory, and respiratory conditions.
Dong quai is grown on the high and cold, mountain reaches of Korea, China, and Japan. It bears fruits in the months of July and August. The yellow-brown thick roots of the dong quai plant are used for medicinal purposes. The plant takes three years to mature, after which the root is harvested and formed into tablets, powders, and treated for various ailments.
Dong quai helps in decreasing pain, dilation of blood vessels, and promotes stimulation and relaxation of uterine muscles. Experimental studies on animals have shown that dong quai can treat abnormal heart rhythm, guard the liver, block accumulation of platelets in blood vessels, function as a mild laxative, remove sleep disorders and help in fighting infection. However, more research and studies need to done to see how effective dong quai can be on humans.
Dong quai is highly effective for the female reproductive system. It is said to have brought relief to women suffering form menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and cramps. However, clinical studies till date do not support the effectiveness of dong quai for menopausal symptoms.
Dong quai when used with ginseng (Asian ginseng) and astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), reduces symptoms of chest pain. Use of
dong quai immediately after a stroke has shown to decrease chances of brain damage.
Reports also indicate that dong quai may lower blood pressure in some individuals. Dong quai is said to heal ulcers as well. Use and effectiveness of
Dong quai on children is not proven so
dong quai should not be used on them. You should be careful enough not to use essential oil of dong quai as it contains small dose of cancer causing substances. Dong quai also provides some side-effects especially when consumed in high doses. It might increase an individual’s sensitivity to sunlight thereby making him prone to skin rashes and inflammation. Dong quai may also interact with medicines like warfarin, hormone medications and blood thinning herbs.
