Dong Quai Herb

Dong quai herb (Angelica Sinensis) is a perennial plant that is found at high altitudes in the mountainous regions of Japan, China and Korea. The thick, light brown root of the Dong Quai has been valued for thousands of years for its vast array of medicinal applications.

How does dong quai herb work?

Dong quai herb increases levels of estrogen (a hormone that plays a key role in several bodily functions) by substituting natural human hormones with plant hormones called phytoestrogens, which have a chemical structure very similar to estrogen.

What is dong quai herb used for?

In traditional Chinese medicine Dong quai herb has a variety of applications, including use as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, sedative, and aphrodisiac. Today Dong quai herb is mainly used to treat menopausal symptoms, PMS and menstrual pain and cramping.

Dong quai herb relieves these menopause symptoms:

• Prevents spasms.
• Sleep disturbances.
• Relieves menopausal symptoms.
• Relieves menstrual disorders.
• Relaxes peripheral blood vessels.

Pros and cons for using dong quai herb for menopause

PROS

Dong quai herb relieves menopause symptoms efficiently: This Phytoestrogenic herb is great as a short-term treatment for relieving menopausal symptoms, PMS and menstrual disorders.

Dong quai herb is a good alternative to HRT: The phytoestrogens in Dong quai herb can compensate for estrogen loss in menopausal women. Dong quai herb intake thus has almost the same benefits as HRT, but is less expensive.

Dong quai herb has several health benefits besides relieving menopause symptoms: Dong quai is also prescribed for relieving PMS, arthritis, to lower blood pressure.

CONS

Dong quai herb may stimulate breast cancer: Medical studies have revealed that phytoestrogens in Dong quai herb may stimulate the spread of breast cancer cells.

Dong quai herb causes skin inflammation and rashes: By increasing sensitivity to sunlight. Anyone taking Dong quai herb should minimize his or her exposure to sunlight and use sunscreen while taking the herb.

Dong quai herb’s contra indications: Pregnant women or those taking an anticoagulant should not use Dong quai herb.

Conclusions about dong quai herb

Dong quai herb is great at relieving many menopause symptoms, but Dong quai herb has been criticized because it adds artificial hormones to the body. In so doing, Dong quai herb can trigger a variety of undesirable side effects, including serious problems like breast cancer.

It is possible to find other alternative treatments which are just as effective as Dong quai herb, but without the side effects. Non-estrogenic herbs, for example, are a great option for treating menopause symptoms. Read more in the following article.