Dong Quai

Dong Quai

(Angelica sinensis)

Dong Quai has been shown to provide Improvement in energy, particularly in females; is used for menopause, dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and amenorrhea; also hypertension; anemia; phytoestrogen excessive fetal movement, and chronic pelvic infection.

Gynecologic disorders: Zhu, 1987, Xu, 1981, Hirata, 1997, Lin, 1979

Standardized: 1% standardized extract containing Ligustilide 2.25mg
1 capsule with water 2 x daily

Whole Herb: (Root powder) 525mg
1 capsule with water 3 x daily

Pharmacology:

Dong Quai is rich in phytoestrogens, which may demonstrate similar pharmacological effects, but are less potent than pure estrogenic compounds. However, there are conflicting reports concerning the direct estrogenic effects of Dong Quai. Theoretically, phytoestrogens demonstrate partial antagonist activity, modulating the effect of estrogen in both deficiency and excess. They may act as competitive antagonists to estrogen when concentrations are low as during menopause.

Dong Quai has also been reported to cause vasodilation, thus contributing to its use in hypertension. It also reportedly has hematopoietic properties, which may act to stimulate blood cell production and improve energy. The volatile oil has an inhibitory action on the uterus whereas the nonvolatile and water- and alcohol-soluble components have stimulatory action. In another study, Dong Quai alone was found not to produce estrogen-like responses in endometrial thickness or vaginal maturation, and also not to be useful in managing postmenopausal symptoms. Studies showed increase in metabolism, oxygen use by the liver, and glutamic acid and cysteine oxidation; these actions may be attributed to vitamin B12 and folinic acid that occur in the herb's root.

Theoretical Cautions and Contraindications:
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Based on potential interference with platelet aggregation (observed with related species) may alter hemostasis. Contraindicated in individuals with active bleeding (e.g., peptic ulcer, intracranial bleeding). Use with caution in individuals with a history of potentiate effects of warfarin. Use caution in individuals taking anticoagulant medications, including warfarin, aspirin, aspirin-containing products, NSAIDs, or antiplatelet agents (e.g., ticlopidine, clopidogrel, dipyridamole). Discontinue use prior to dental or surgical procedures (generally at least 14 days before). Caution in pregnancy and lactation. May cause photosensitization due to furanocoumarins; avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet radiation (i.e., tanning booths). Based on pharmacological activity, use with caution in individuals at risk of hypotension, or in those who would tolerate hypotension poorly (cerebrovascular or cardiovascular disease). Use with caution in individuals taking antihypertensive medications. Phytoestrogen-containing herbs have not been associated with the negative health effects seen with synthetic estrogen. However, use with caution in individuals on hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives or with a history of estrogen-dependent tumors, endometrial cancer, thromboembolic disease, or stroke.

Theoretical Interactions:

Increased effect: antihypertensives, anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, hormonal replacement therapy, oral contraceptives, photosensitizing medications. Safrole, a component of the volatile oil, is carcinogenic and not recommended for ingestion. Contraindicated in pregnant or breast-feeding patients because the herb's chemical components may cause fetal harm.

References:

Hirata JD, Swiersz LM, Zell B, et al, "Does Dong Quai Have Estrogenic Effects in Postmenopausal Women? A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial," Fertil Steril, 1997, 68(6): 981-6.

Lin M, Zhu GD, Sun QM, et al, "Chemical Studies of Angelica sinensis," Yao Hsueh Hsueh Pao, 1979, 14(9): 529-34.

Xu LN, Ouyang R, Yin ZZ, et al, "The Effect of Dang-qui (Angelica sinensis) and Its Constituent Ferulic Acid on Phagocytosis in Mice," Yao Hsueh Hsueh Pao, 1981, 16(6): 411-4.

Zhu DP, "Dong Quai," Am J Chin Med, 1987, 15(3-4): 117-25.

Short, R. (ed.), "Clinical Considerations for Specific Herb-Drug Interactions & Potential Adverse Effects of Herbs", Facts and Comparisons( The Review of Natural Products, St. Louis (Mo), 1998 Dec; 1-8.

Fetrow, C.W., Avila, J. R., Complementary & Alternative Medicines, Springhouse, PA, 1999.

LaValle, J.B., Krinsky, D.L., Hawkins, E.B, et. al., Natural Therapeutics Pocket Guide, Lexi-Comp, USA, 2000.

Gruenwald, J., Brendler, T., Jaenicke, C., PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2nd Ed., Medical Economics Company, NJ, 2000.

Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, Gruenwald J, Hall T, Riggins CW, Rister RS (eds.) The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Klein S, Rister RS, translators. Austin (TX): American Botanical Council; Boston (MA): Integrative Medicine Communications; 1998.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Material herein is derived from journals, textbooks, news releases, reference guides, etc. Graham Development, Inc. cannot be held responsible for the validity of the information contained in any reference noted herein or for the misuse of information or any adverse effects by use of any stated materials presented. ©2000 Scientific Herbals-unauthorized reproduction of this document is prohibited.

Dong Quai Standardized Herbal Supplement 15.99

Dong Quai Herbal Supplement 525 mg 10.69

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