Dong Quai and Arthritis

Arthritis is not a single disease, but a group of conditions characterized by inflammation of the joints. There are around one hundred forms of arthritis, the most common form being osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and infectious arthritis. Conventional drugs include anti-inflammatory agents. Dong quai, scientifically known as Angelica sinesis is a medicinal herb widely used in traditional Chinese medicine, especially for creating hormonal balance in women. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it is also recommended for inflammatory conditions, including arthritis. If you suffer from arthritis and consider talking dong quai, talk to your doctor first.

Active Ingredients

Dong quai contains plant chemicals with estrogen like-effects, thus it is being considered a herb indicated for women. Coumarin, another active ingredient of dong quai, is responsible for anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Based on studies in animal models, dong quai may be even more effective than aspirin, indicates Steven Foster, co-author of " National Geographic's Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine."

Reduces Inflammation

Dong quai has been found to significantly decrease inflammatory markers and should be researched further as a possible anti-inflammatory agent in joint diseases, suggests SM Jung and his colleagues form University of Pennsylvania. Their study, published in the 2007 issue of " Arthritis Research Therapy" evaluated the effects of an extract from dong quai's roots in animal models of drug-induced arthritis.

Summary of Research

Mayo Clinic acknowledges that dong quai has been traditionally for treating arthritis, particularly for rheumatoid arthritis. However, it states that there is insufficient clinical research evidence supporting use of dong quai for the treatment of arthritis. For this reason, it grades its effectiveness as a "C" for this condition.

Side Effects and Drug Interactions

Although considered safe and well tolerated, dong quai may cause allergic reactions in people with known allergies to Angelica radix, celery, carrots and parsley. Other rare but possible side effects include headache, sleeping problems, fever, hot flashes, aggravation of premenstrual syndrome symptoms, kidney problems, and skin rash. In men, it may cause gynecomastia, a condition characterized by increased breast size. Dong quai may interact with blood thinners such as aspirin and warfarin and should not be used days before surgery. Dong quai should not be used during pregnancy as it may increase the risk of abortion.

Considerations

Consult a qualified practitioner specialized in traditional Chinese medicine to find out if you may benefit from taking dong quai for your condition. Often this herb is combined with other Chinese herbs, and each herb may have its own side effects and drug interactions. Keep in mind that dong quai is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat arthritis or any other medical condition.