Dong QuaiIntroduction The Chinese phrase "dong quai" literally means "state of return." For over two thousand years, since the writing of the Divine HusbandmanÍs Classic of the Materia Medica, Chinese herbal medicine has used dong quai to help women return to their natural hormonal and emotional states after the accumulation of toxins and emotional injuries in the energy organ known as the "liver." Dong quai is a plant in the same family as celery, parsley, and carrots. Its long, large, most, oily and fragrant root has a yellow-brown bark and a yellow-white cross section. Greenish roots should not be used. Dong Quai, one of the most important of the Chinese tonic herbs, is used as a nourishing blood tonic and to regulate the menstrual cycle. Dong Quai has been used for centuries by Asian healers to balance female hormones and to prevent the troublesome symptoms of menopause and PMS. Clinical research has indicated that Dong Quai also contains antispasmodic compounds that aid in relaxing muscle tissue, explaining its effectiveness in treating menstrual cramps. The risks and long term effects of HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) are well known, while studies on soy-based products show conflicting and unsubstantiated results. Research has shown that Dong Quai is extremely effective in providing long term relief from symptoms of Menopause when taken regularly for between 8 and 12 weeks, and its effects are most noticeable at the end of the treatment period. Constituents Butylidene phhtalide, ligustilide, n-butylidene-phthalide, sequiterpenes, carvacrol, dihyrophthalic anhydride, sucrose, B vitamins, beta-sitosterol. Parts Used Root. Typical Preparations Teas, tinctures, encapsulations, usually with other herbs. With white peony, rehmannia and ligusticum, used for menstrual irregularity, amenorrhea, and dysmenorrhea. With ginger, for post partum abdominal pain, or hernia. With cinnamon for pelvic infections. With honeysuckle (lonicera) for swelling of skin absecesses. Summary In herbal medicine, the primary use of dong quai is as a uterine tonic, reducing menstrual pain and reducing disagreeable symptoms of menopause. Dong quai does not stimulate the production of estrogen. The herb is used in tonics for both sexes to relieve pain caused by neuralgia, poor circulation, and arthritis. Precautions Avoid when there is diarrhea with flatulence. Not to be used while pregnant or if you are on blood thinning medications.
The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.
|
