Angelica sinensis, more commonly known as dong quai, is most frequently used to treat conditions involving the reproductive systems of women. Research results are mixed or lacking, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine's MedlinePlus website, but the use of dong quai for these purposes has a long history in traditional medicine systems of China, Japan and Korea, where the plant grows naturally in the mountain country. Dong quai root is available as dried raw root, in tablets, as powder form in capsules and in tincture form.
Dysmenorrhea
Some women take dong quai to relieve painful menstruation and cramps (dysmenorrhea), and this is a traditional use for the herb in Asian medicine because of its antispasmodic and muscle relaxant properties. It also may be helpful for additional problems that can be associated with menstruation, including constipation or anemic effects. Studies have focused on dong quai combined with other herbs for this purpose, according to MedlinePlus, and results are not clear.
Other Menstrual Disorders
Traditional uses of dong quai also include stimulating menstruation when periods are absent (amenorrhea) and making an irregular cycle more consistent. Women also take dong quai to help relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Research is limited and of poor quality, according to MedlinePlus.
Menopause
Traditional Chinese formulas include dong quai for treating unpleasant symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, insomnia and vaginal dryness, and some women experience relief for these problems when taking this herbal remedy, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Dong quai may contain phytoestrogens, substances with estrogen-like effects. Research is conflicting as to whether dong quai has similar effects on the body as estrogens or blocks the activity of estrogens, according to the UMMC.
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