Dong Quai – The Wonder Herb
August 18, 2009
For centuries, dong quai is used in traditional Chinese herbal medicine for treating several ailments. This medicinal herb, whose scientific name is Angelica sinensis, is found in the mountains of China, Japan and Korea.
This perennial plant is a member of the celery family. It takes nearly three years for the dong quai plant to reach maturity. After ginseng, dong quai is perhaps most widely used by the Chinese medicine practitioners.
Dong quai is a good source of vitamins A, B12 and E. Cobalt, a trace mineral found in this herb helps to increase hemoglobin level.
Menopause symptom remedies
Dong quai is a menopause herb. It is also known as female ginseng. The roots of this plant are used for treating symptoms of menopause. The roots of dong quai contain plant estrogen that mimics the human estrogen. Dong Quai helps to maintain the estrogen balance in the body. However, studies have not been able to establish the exact method by which dong quai controls the estrogen level during menopause.
Amenorrhea remedy
Dong quai can also be used for treating amenorrhea. Amenorrhea is characterized by absence of menstruation due to hormonal imbalance.
Reduces chest pain
Dong quai is also used for treating angina. In traditional Chinese medicine, intake of dong quai along with Asian ginseng and astragalus is recommended for reducing chest pain associated with heart ailments. It helps to dilate the muscles of the blood vessels, facilitating smooth flow of blood. This herb also helps to maintain regular heart rhythm.
Dong quai can be taken by hypertension sufferers. This herb helps to normalize blood pressure by relaxing the muscles of the arteries.
Fatigue cure
Dong quai can help to cure fatigue. This energy-boosting herb is beneficial for women recovering after childbirth.
Cures respiratory problems
The antispasmodic property of dong quai is beneficial in the treatment of respiratory problems such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Inflammation remedy
Dong quai helps to cure inflammation. It is therefore recommended for arthritis patients. It boosts the immunity, by stimulating production of white blood cells.
Reduces stress
Dong quai helps to sooth the nervous system through its mild sedative action. It can be taken to reduce stress.
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