Botanical Overview
Angelica sinensis, known commonly as Dong quai, Chinese angelica, or Tang Kuei, belongs to the Apiaceae family. The medicinal part used is primarily the root. Native to China and surrounding regions such as Tibet and Sichuan Province, it has a long tradition of use in traditional Chinese medicine.
Energetics
Angelica sinensis is warming and moistening in nature, with a taste profile comprising sweet, spicy, and bitter. It exhibits ascending and descending directional properties, often considered outward moving. It is categorized as tonifying, particularly enriching the blood.
Primary Actions
- Blood tonic
- Menstrual regulator
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antispasmodic
- Immune modulator
Indications
Western
- Menstrual irregularities
- Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea)
- Hot flashes
- Anemia symptoms
- Poor circulation
- Mild inflammation
Syndromes
- Anemia
- Menstrual disorders
- Perimenopausal symptoms
- Peripheral vascular insufficiency
- Chronic inflammation
TCM
- Pale complexion
- Cold limbs
- Menstrual pain
- Irregular menstruation
- Blood deficiency symptoms
Syndromes
- Blood deficiency
- Blood stasis
- Cold in the uterus
- Qi and blood stagnation
Ayurveda
Not well established.
Unani
Not well established.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The root contains bioactive phytochemicals including ferulic acid, ligustilide, polysaccharides, volatile oils, and phthalides, contributing to its blood tonic, anti-inflammatory, and spasmolytic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of dried root 3-10 g daily
- Tincture (1:5 40%) 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
- Powder 1-3 g daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use with caution during pregnancy because it may stimulate uterine contractions, particularly contraindicated during the first trimester. Avoid if bleeding disorders or hormone-sensitive cancers are present. Potential interactions include anticoagulants, photosensitizing drugs, and hormone therapies. Use under professional supervision.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Assessment report on Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, radix – European Medicines Agency (2016)
- Dong Quai – National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (2021)
- Pharmacological effects of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels – Phytotherapy Research Journal (Bensky & Gamble, 1993)
- Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica (3rd edition) – Bensky, Clavey, Stoger (2004)