Dong Quai
Natural Healing Herbs
Dong quai has been used in Korean and Chinese traditional medicine to treat gynecological problems for many years. It was also used as an aphrodisiac.
Other Names
This herb is also spelled dong qui or dong kwai sometimes. It is sometimes called Eumenol, American angelica, Chinese Angelica, root of the Holy Ghost, kinesisk kvan, and female ginseng.
Appearance
This plant flourishes in cold damp areas. It has a hallow stem that grows to be 8 feet tall. In the late summer it grows clusters of greenish-white umbrella shaped flowers that look similar to Queen Anne's Lace. The roots are thick and yellowish-brown.
Origins
It originates in Asia.
Part Used
The roots are used.
Medicinal Uses
This herb is believed balance female hormones. It contains antioxidants and flavonoids. It can be used to treat the following conditions:
- amenorrhea
- painful periods
- irregular periods
- hot flashes
- arthritis
- uterine fibroid tumors
- high blood pressure
- chronic congestion
- constipation
- allergies
- shingles
- anemia
- headaches
You can by this herb and many others at Mountain Rose Herbs.
Side Effects and Warnings
If you have an allergy to caraway, anise, carrots, celery, dill or parsley, you could have a bad reaction to this herb. This herb thins the blood and can increase your risk of bleeding. Some people who take it get rashes. Sensitivity to light may also occur.
You should not take this herb if you are pregnant or nursing. You also shouldn't take it if you are taking any prescription drugs.
If you found this information useful, check out my complete listing of herbs at my Herb Index. You can find a listing of ailments and their natural treatments on my Free Home Remedies page.
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