Known in China as the “female medicine”, dong quai has been used for years to combat various ailments, especially gynecological ones. It is a medicinal plant that can reach up to 2.5m in height with hollow stems and white flowers. With the scientific name of angelica sinensis, its medicinal properties are found in its root, which can be used as a tea or extract.
Index
What are the properties and benefits of dong quai?
Rich in essential oils and bitter principles, dong quai helps normalize the menstrual cycle and relieves cramps caused by it, thanks to its anti-spasm action. Also with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibiotic, anticoagulant, anti-asthmatic, laxative, anti-anemic, cardiac and respiratory tonic and uterine stimulant properties, it is ideal to combat hypertension, marked symptoms of menopause, postpartum abdominal pain, migraine, irregular menstruation, ulcer, rheumatism, arthritis, premature ejaculation and constipation.
The roots of the dong quai plant have vasodilators that strengthen the liver function of those who consume it regularly, being also effective in the treatment of pernicious anemia, due to the vitamins that are given to it – mainly B12 – and also minerals such as cobalt and iron. Its regulatory properties are attributed to phytoestrogens, which bear similarities to the estrogens produced by the body in a woman’s body. Thus, dong quai tea is even more useful when a woman decides to suspend the use of birth control pills, as it helps to regulate her body, so that it adapts to the absence of the drug.
Learn how to prepare this tea
- For dong quai tea: Use 30 g of dong quai root to 3 cups of water. Place the boiling water over the dong quai root, then let it rest in a covered container for 30 minutes, strain and drink.
- To use dong quai extract : Use 50 to 80 g of dong quai root dry extract with food 6 times a day.
Heads up
Dong quai should not be given to pregnant women, nursing women and children. Excessive consumption can lead to diarrhea, skin rashes and headaches. Therefore, before starting the treatment with the plant, seek a doctor and get informed correctly, as each organism is unique and reacts differently. In addition, make good use of the plant and discover in natural medicine the cure for various ailments.
