What is dong quai (Angelica sinensis), and what is it used for?
Dong quai is a plant and the root is used as a natural medicine to treat several conditions. Dong quai has some effects of estrogen and it may affect other hormones in the body. Dong quai also contain coumarins, which give it blood thinning effects in the body. Individuals should check with their physicians before using this compound.
What are the side effects of dong quai?
Side effects of Dong quai are skin irritation, sun sensitivity, bruising, and bleeding. It may increase the risk of cancer.
What is the dosage for dong quai?
The dosage for dong quai varies depending on the use. Note that different suppliers may suggest different doses:
- Premature ejaculation: A multi-ingredient topical cream, containing Dong quai, is applied to the penis one hour prior to sex and washed off immediately before sex.
- Menopausal symptoms: Take 4.5 grams of powder by mouth daily or 520 to 1560 mg by mouth three times daily with meals.
- Liquid extract: Take 1 ml by mouth three times a day.
Which drugs or supplements interact with dong quai?
Dong quai has blood thinning effects (slow blood clotting) and should not be taken with blood thinning medications like warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), and pain medications like ibuprofen (Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), and diclofenac (Voltaren). Such combinations increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. It should also not be combined with herbs that also slow blood clotting. Examples include angelica, clove, danshen, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, panax ginseng, poplar, red clover, and willow.
QUESTION
Next to red peppers, you can get the most vitamin C from ________________. See AnswerPregnancy and breastfeeding
Dong quai may affect muscles of the uterus in pregnant women and possibly be harmful to the fetus. Dong quai should not be used in pregnant women.
It is not known whether Dong quai enters breast milk; however, it is best to avoid Dong quai in nursing mothers to prevent harm to the newborn.
What else should I know about dong quai?
What preparations of dong quai (Angelica sinensis) are available?
Dong quai is available in capsules, liquid extract, and powder form. Concentration of Dong quai may vary from product-to-product due to multiple manufacturers producing various products.
How should I keep dong quai (Angelica sinensis) stored?
Due to multiple manufacturers making different forms of Dong quai, storage requirements may vary based on individual manufacturer practices.
Health News
- Unhealthy Microbiome May Raise Death Risk After Organ Transplant
- Raw Milk Exposure a Real Bird Flu Risk for Humans, but Fast Spread Unlikely
- Second Recipient of Genetically Modified Pig Kidney Has Died
- Doctors Perform Larynx Transplant in Cancer Patient
- Scientists Develop High-Tech 'Air Mask' to Ward Off Viruses
More Health News »
Summary
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis, Chinese Angelica, Tang Kuei, Tan Kue Bai Zhi, Tanggwi, Toki, Angelica China, female Ginseng) is an herbal supplement purported to treat premature ejaculations, premenstrual syndrome, symptoms of menopause, menstrual cramps, anemia, constipation, skin discoloration, joint aches and pains, ulcers, and high blood pressure. Side effects, drug interactions, and pregnancy safety information should be reviewed prior to taking this supplement.
Multimedia: Slideshows, Images & Quizzes
-
Vitamins and Supplements: What to Know Before You Take Herbal Supplements
Not all herbs and supplements are safe, especially if you have certain medical conditions or take some drugs. Find out which ones...
-
Vitamins and Supplements: What Can You Take to Fight Inflammation?
Arthritis, intense exercise, and sugary or fatty foods are some of the things that can lead to inflammation. Here’s what you can...
-
Omega 3 Foods: Health Benefits, Research, Best Supplements
What does research say are the best omega 3 supplements? What are the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids? Learn how Omega 3 rich...
-
Supplement Smarts: Best Ways to Take Different Vitamins
Taking a vitamin supplement to cover your nutritional bases? Find out how and when to take it so your body gets the most from it.
-
Vitamins and Supplements: Signs You're Low on Vitamin C
Worried you're coming up short on vitamin C? Here are some telltale symptoms to watch out for.
-
Vitamins and Supplements: Signs You're Low on Vitamin B12
Your body needs vitamin B12 to keep blood cells healthy and to make your nerves work right. But what happens when you run low?
-
Vitamins and Supplements: Test Your Medical IQ
Take the Vitamins & Supplements Quiz to learn just how many essential vitamins your body needs to function!
-
Vitamin D Quiz: Test Your IQ of Dietary Supplements
What happens to the body when there is a vitamin D deficiency? Take the Vitamin D Quiz to find out what you may be missing.
-
Arthritis: Supplements for Joint Pain
Can supplements help relieve joint pain and swelling? Find out how certain compounds may aid your stiff, tender joints.
-
Vitamins and Supplements: 9 Ways to Get Vitamin K
It may not get as much attention as other nutrients, but vitamin K helps your blood clot and your bones grow. WebMD shows you how...
Related Disease Conditions
-
What Vitamins and Supplements Should Not Be Taken Together?
Some vitamins that should not be taken together, or have dosage limitations, include vitamin C with vitamin B-12, vitamin A supplement with vitamin A-rich foods, folic acid (vitamin B9) and vitamin B12, and vitamin E with vitamin K.
-
What Supplements Are Good for Female Libido?
Female sexual desire is a complex phenomenon governed by emotional and psychological factors, as well as hormones. The majority of female-enhancement products comprise a combination of natural herbs, minerals, and vitamins.
-
What Are the Benefits and Risks of Taking Amino Acid Supplements?
Learn whether taking amino acids is of a greater benefit or risk to your overall health. Amino acids are building blocks of protein. The amino acids come together to form proteins.
-
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
High blood pressure (hypertension) occurs due to the tightening or stiffness of very small arteries called arterioles. As a result, the heart pumps harder through the stiff or narrow arterioles, leading to elevated pressure inside the vessels. Hypertension is known as 'the silent killer' because it often goes unnoticed and may cause serious complications such as kidney diseases, heart diseases, heart failure, and stroke.
-
Anemia
Anemia (lack of blood) symptoms can vary depending on the cause. Symptoms may include fatigue, pale skin, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and dizziness. There are several anemia types. Anemia treatment depends upon the type.
-
Arthritis (Joint Inflammation)
Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints. When joints are inflamed they can develop stiffness, warmth, swelling, redness and pain. There are over 100 types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout.
-
Constipation
Constipation is defined medically as fewer than three stools per week and severe constipation as less than one stool per week. Constipation usually is caused by the slow movement of stool through the colon. There are many causes of constipation including medications, poor bowel habits, low-fiber diets, laxative abuse, hormonal disorders, and diseases primarily of other parts of the body that also affect the colon.
-
Vitamins and Calcium Supplements
Vitamins are organic substances that are essential for the proper growth and functioning of the body. Calcium is a mineral essential for healthy bones and is also important for muscle contraction, heart action, and normal blood clotting. Check out the center below for more medical references on vitamins and calcium supplements, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.
-
Migraine Headache
Migraine headache is a type of headache associated with a sensitivity to light, smells, or sounds, eye pain, severe pounding on one side of the head, and sometimes nausea and vomiting. The exact cause of migraine headaches is not known. Triggers for migraine headaches include certain foods, stress, hormonal changes, strong stimuli (loud noises), and oversleeping. Treatment guidelines for migraines include medicine, pain management, diet changes, avoiding foods that trigger migraines, staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, and exercising regularly. Prevention of migraine triggers include getting regular exercise, drinking water daily, reducing stress, and avoiding trigger foods.
-
Things to Know About High Blood Pressure Treatment
High blood pressure (hypertension) means high pressure (tension) in the arteries. Treatment for high blood pressure include lifestyle modifications (alcohol, smoking, coffee, salt, diet, exercise), drugs and medications such as ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, beta blockers, diuretics, calcium channel blockers (CCBs), alpha blockers, clonidine, minoxidil, and Exforge.
-
Laxatives for Constipation
Laxatives types for the treatment of constipation include over-the-counter (OTC) preparations, for example, bulk-forming laxatives, stool softeners, lubricant laxatives, stimulants, saline laxatives, enemas, and suppositories.
-
What Vitamins and Supplements Should I Avoid During Pregnancy?
You should always clear it with your obstetrician before taking any vitamins or supplements while pregnant.
-
Menstrual Cramps
Menstrual cramps (pain in the belly and pelvic area) are experienced by women as a result of menses. Menstrual cramps are not the same as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Menstrual cramps are common, and may be accompanied by headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea. Severity of menstrual cramp pain varies from woman to woman. Treatment includes OTC or prescription pain relief medication.
-
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical and emotional disturbances that occur after a woman ovulates and ends with menstruation. Common PMS symptoms include; depression, irritability, crying, oversensitivity, and mood swings. For some women, PMS symptoms can be controlled with natural and home remedies, medications, and lifestyle changes such as exercise, nutrition, and a family and friend support system.
-
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is considered a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMDD has also been referred to as late luteal phase dysphoric disorder. The cause of PMDD is unknown. Some of the common symptoms of PMDD (not an inclusive list) include mood swings, bloating, fatigue, headache, irritability, headache, breast tenderness, acne, and hot flashes. Treatment for PMDD is with medication to treat the symptoms of PMDD.
-
Are Collagen Supplements Good for You?
Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins found in humans and animals. It includes various structural proteins found in the skin, muscles, and bones. Collagen is essential for maintaining the health of skin, muscles, joints, and tendons.
-
Menstrual Cramps and PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) Treatment
Menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms include abdominal cramping, bloating, a feeling of fullness, abdominal pain, mood swings, anxiety and more. Treatment for menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms include regular sleep, exercise, smoking cessation, diet changes, and OTC or prescription medication depending on the severity of the condition.
-
How Long Do Hair Supplements Take to Work?
Hair growth vitamins or herbal supplements are often used to promote healthy hair growth and regrowth. Taking hair growth supplements does not produce results overnight; it usually takes a long time (one to five years) to see results.
Treatment & Diagnosis
Medications & Supplements
Prevention & Wellness
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
REFERENCE:
MedlinePlus. Dong quai.