Angelica Sinensis: the female ginseng

Dong Quai would be the name of Angelica sinensis according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Indeed, this marvelous plant originates from there, considered by Asian tradition as the “women’s plant,” the most important female tonic.

For millennia, it has been used by Chinese tradition for all gynecological, menstrual, or menopausal symptoms.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, Angelica is classified as a “warm” plant capable of invigorating and toning the blood, which, according to a more modern conception, refers to an activity that improves circulation.

In Asian countries, Angelica is known as a remedy for “blood deficiency,” which in more Western terms refers to situations of anemia, pallor, palpitations, and general weakness.

Its main use is recognized in regulating menstrual flow and reducing typical premenstrual syndrome symptoms both at the onset, characterized by cramps, spasms, and constipation, and in cases of prolonged chronicization.

More modern studies have recognized the potential of Angelica sinensis by introducing it fully into modern phytotherapy as a remedy to alleviate menstrual disorders, especially as a preventive measure (taken at least two weeks before menstruation begins), but also as continuous use for more chronic cases.

The part of the plant used because it is rich in active ingredients is the root, which also contains a volatile component responsible for much of its beneficial activity.

Its use for female problems is justified by Angelica’s pronounced spasmolytic activity, able to act on uterine and intestinal smooth muscles, alleviating typical abdominal pain, but also effective in chronic stomach pains and whenever the nervous factor is at the root of the functional disorder.

Staying within the female sphere, Chinese Angelica is also indicated for alleviating menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, uterine contractions, osteoporosis with beneficial action against calcium loss.

It also seems to have a good immunostimulating and antioxidant action.

Its Western sister is Angelica archangelica L. (= Angelica officinalis Hoffm.), also known for its action on circulation, premenstrual disturbances, digestive problems, and abdominal bloating.

This species also has a long tradition associated with a more sacred sphere: the plant was mainly cultivated in the monasteries of Central Europe, and for its virtues, it was called the “Herb of Angels,” as if it had come from the kingdom of heaven.

Both Chinese and Western Angelica are associated with other plants with similar action such as Chamomile, Hops, Sage, Yarrow, Lemon Balm, and Chaste Tree, all specific plants for female well-being.