Dong Quai & Congestion

Dong quai, otherwise known as Angelica sinensis, may not have the popularity of other better-known herbs, but it boasts a long history in Chinese medicine as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic agent. While the need exists for further studies, practitioners of alternative medicine claim that dong quai can help relieve nasal congestion. Due to safety and efficacy concerns, however, check with your doctor before use.

About Dong Quai

Found in the damp mountainous regions of China, Korea and Japan, dong quai grows to heights of 6 feet and produces bright green leaves, purplish stems, umbrella-shaped clusters of white flowers and winged fruits. The herb's large rhizomes, or roots, constitute the source of its medicinal powers. One of the oldest therapeutic agents in traditional Chinese medicine, dong quai has numerous applications, including use as a folk remedy for menopause, premenstrual syndrome and respiratory conditions.

Dong Quai Congestion Link

Nasal congestion, often caused by colds, flu or sinus infections, occurs when antibodies prompt the release of histamines, causing the blood vessels in your nose to become inflamed and swollen. Dong quai contains coumarin compounds that help inhibit tissue-destructive antibodies from developing at the initial onset of the inflammatory process, says Phyllis A. Balch, certified nutritional consultant and author of the book "Prescription for Herbal Healing." Also, according to Stephanie Pedersen, author of "Dong Quai Woman's Wonder Drug," studies indicate that dong quai helps allergy-related symptoms such as nasal congestion by altering immune-system reactions. Such claims remain unsubstantiated, however.

Usage

It takes about three years for the dong quai plant to mature. Upon maturity, herbalists slice and dry its rhizomes to make tablets, capsules, powders, tinctures and liquid extract. According to Steven Foster, author of the book "National Geographic Desk Reference to Nature's Medicine," the Chinese commonly add chopped, dried rhizomes to soups and often drink daily glasses of a tonic made from the herb. Pedersen recommends taking 200 mg capsules twice daily, 1/2 tsp. of liquid extract or 1 tsp. of tincture daily for respiratory problems.

Cautions and Considerations

Numerous safety issues surround the use of dong quai. While generally considered safe in small doses, cancer-causing chemicals contained in dong quai make it potentially harmful when used in large doses over extended periods, according to MedlinePlus. Dong quai contains substances that may cause severe photosensitivity. It also contains the potentially carcinogenic ingredients psoralens and safrole. Children, pregnant and nursing women, women with heavy menstrual flow and people with herpes, blood-clotting disorders and estrogen-sensitive cancers should avoid the herb.