Angelica sinensis

Dong Quai

Apiaceae

Evidence: LimitedCaffeine Free ChinaWomen's WellnessVitality Traditions

Save to favorites

Identity

Common Name: Dong Quai
Scientific Name: Angelica sinensis
Botanical Family: Apiaceae
Native Region: China
Cultivation Regions: China, Japan, Korea
Plant Parts Used: Root
Synonyms: Dang Gui, Tang Kuei, Female Ginseng
Caffeine Level: Caffeine Free

A tall fragrant perennial umbellifer 0.5-1 m tall with divided pinnate leaflets, compound umbels of small white flowers, and a thick, brown, branched aromatic taproot used medicinally.

Historical Background

Known as the 'female ginseng,' dong quai has been the premier women's herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine for over two millennia, prescribed to nourish blood and regulate menstruation. Its aromatic root is simmered in decoctions and prized for a distinctive sweet-bitter, earthy-musky aroma.

Earliest recorded uses: Recorded in the Shennong Ben Cao Jing (~2000 years ago); a cornerstone of TCM gynecology.

Traditional preparations:

Root decoction
Blood-nourishing soup/tea
TCM formula ingredient

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Nourishes Blood, invigorates circulation, regulates menstruation; premier women's tonic.

Modern Herbalism

Women's tonic and adaptogen (use with caution).

Flavor & Aroma

EarthyBitterSweetAromatic

Aroma: Musky, earthy, sweet-bitter, aromatic

Tea Information

Suitable for Tea

Yes

Preparation Methods

Decoction

Steeping Temperature

200°F (93°C)

Steeping Time

10-15 minutes simmer (decoction)

Recommended Vessel

Saucepan (decoction)

Blends Well With

Goji Berry, Ginger, Black Tea, Astragalus, Jujube

200°F (93°C) 10-15 minutes simmer (decoction)

Safety & Cautions

Contraindications

Avoid in pregnancy, bleeding disorders, hormone-sensitive cancers/conditions, and with anticoagulants. Discontinue before surgery; coumarins increase bleeding risk and sun sensitivity.

Drug Interactions

Significant bleeding risk with warfarin/anticoagulants; may affect hormone therapies; consult a clinician before combining with any medication.

Pregnancy

Avoid medicinal doses.

Children

Mild culinary infusions acceptable in small amounts.

Allergies

Possible in those sensitive to Apiaceae (carrot family).

Known Adverse Effects

Generally well tolerated in moderate amounts; may cause GI upset or photosensitivity; bleeding signs at high doses.

Research Summary

Evidence Level: Limited

Dong quai is a pillar of TCM for women's health. Clinical evidence is limited and inconsistent; trials are small and poorly designed. It carries notable bleeding risk (coumarins) and is not a treatment for menstrual disorders or infertility.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources

NCCIH · Dong quai (2023)
MSKCC · Dong quai information (2022)

Related Herbs

Caffeine Free

Foeniculum vulgare

Fennel

Apiaceae

Sweet, anise, licorice-like

Evidence: LimitedDigestive ComfortWomen's Wellness

Caffeine Free

Eryngium yuccifolium

Eryngo

Apiaceae

Faint, rooty, herbaceous

Evidence: InsufficientProstate HealthUrinary Comfort

Caffeine Free

Pimpinella anisum

Anise

Apiaceae

Sweet, licorice-like, warm, aromatic

Evidence: LimitedDigestive ComfortCold Season