Is Dong Quai meant for a female's cycle?

Question

If anyone knows any infomatino about Dong Quai I'd love to know. I've been taking it now for several months because I would like a better menstrual cycle.

Wow! Thanks for all the informative information. You really know your stuff! Thank you =)

Answer 1

Common name : Chinese angelica root (commonly written as: tong kwai, dong quai)

Actions and Indications:
Tonic for blood and for regulating the menses, lubricates bowels to correct constipation, reduces swelling, expels pus, relieves pain. Dang gui wei (tail) is being used in condition of blood stasis and clots.
Medical Functions:
1. effects on uterus: experiments showed that it can have inhibiting and stimulating effects on uterus
2. effects on blood: lowers lipids, anti platelet coagulation, and promotes production of red cells.
3. effects on circulatory system,improve circulation
4. anti oxidation and rid of free radicals
5. anti injuries of radiation
6. improve immune system
7. anti inflammatory
8. protects digestive system (including liver)

Answer 2

Regular use of Dong Quai will:

Prevent the symptoms of menopause and PMS
Help with menstrual cramps
Correct hormone imbalance
Relieve some of the symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Act as a general tonic for the female reproductive system

Answer 3

Dong quai is an aromatic herb that grows in China, Korea, and Japan. The reputation of Don quai is second only to Ginseng and is considered the ultimate, all-purpose woman's tonic herb. It is used for almost every gynecological complaint from regulating the menstrual cycle to treating menopausal symptoms caused by hormonal changes.
Dong quai is frequently used by the Chinese as a strengthening treatment for the heart, spleen, liver and kidneys. Both men and women use the herb as a general blood tonic.

Dong quai contains vitamins E, A and B12. Researchers have isolated at least six coumarin derivatives that exert antispasmodic and vasodilatory effects. Antispasmodics are a remedy for menstrual cramps. The essential oil in dong quai contains Ligustilide, butylphthalide and numerous other minor components. Ferulic acid and various polysaccharides are also found in dong quai's root. These elements can prevent spasms, reduce blood clotting and relax peripheral blood vessels. Research has shown that don quai produces a balancing effect on estrogen activity.

Modern treatments prescribe the herb to combat PMS and to help women resume normal menstruation after using birth control pills.

The herb has been found useful in balancing and treating many female systems and cycles. Dong quai's constituents can act to stimulate the central nervous system which can remedy weakness and headaches associated with menstrual disorders. It strengthens internal reproductive organs, helps with endometriosis and internal bleeding or bruising. It relieves menopausal conditions such as vaginal dryness and hot flashes.

The herb has also been used as a blood purifier, to promote blood circulation and nourish the blood in both sexes. It is high in iron content and may help to prevent iron deficiency and anemia. Studies show that it can aid in regulating blood sugar and in lowering blood pressure.

Dong quai has a mild sedative effect which can relieve stress and calms the nerves. It has also be used to stimulate the uterus during childbirth, treat insomnia, alleviate constipation and for migraine headaches.

Answer 4

Dong Quai is also an Abortifacient Herb.