Dang Gui

One of the most used herbs in Chinese medicine, Angelica Sinesis is used for the treatment of many different complaints, especially in women with premenstrual syndrome. Since it is used for the treatment of women’s complaints, it is often also known as women’s ginseng. The herb is sold in many different forms commercially. It is often sold as a tonic, and may also be available as a dried root. Chinese herbalists usually sell it as powdered root which can be used for brewing herbal teas. The herb has many therapeutic properties and can benefit the heart, lungs and kidneys. It is also used for detoxification and can be consumed to purify blood. This is one of the reasons it is sold as a tonic. Since it helps in promoting healthy flow of blood, it is also used by those who have anemia or other blood related disorders. The dried roots of the plant are usually brewed as a tea or administered orally in their dried forms. The herb can also be applied as a topical ointment for the treatment of inflamed skin as well as joints.

Nutritional Information and Properties

Dang Gui is naturally rich in vitamins A, B12, and E. It is also a rich source of other vital nutrients such as folates and niacin. Dang Gui also contains moderate amounts of iron, which is why it is recommended for those who are anemic and have a low hemoglobin count. Another compound that enhances the medicinal properties of Dang Gui is coumarin. This is a group of compounds that can dilate blood vessels and control muscle spasms, therefore giving relief from cramping and other premenstrual syndrome symptoms. These compounds also increase the blood supply to various organs, promoting menstrual regulation and healthy blood flow at the time of menstruation. Dang Gui also contains plant compounds that mimic the properties of estrogen. These compounds, known as phytoestrogens, balance out the estrogen levels in a women’s body, promoting health, fertility and overall wellness in women. They also contain antioxidants and are therefore helpful in reversing the signs of ageing.

Health Benefits and Therapeutic Uses

Dang gui improves secretions of female hormones to make them better balanced. It can therefore help improve fertility and regulate the female reproductive cycle.
Phytoestrogens in Dang Gui offer mild additions to the overall quantities of estrogen in the body. This makes the herb effective as a natural hormone replacement. Dang Gui can also be used for balancing out low levels of natural estrogen.
Coumarins, a group of compounds present in Dang Gui, can dilate blood vessels and control muscle spasms. This helps in regulation of menstrual flow.
Apart from helping women with different menstrual problems, Dang Gui can also help improve men’s fertility as well as the health of the prostate gland.
Another health benefit of Dang Gui is its high level of antioxidants, thus offering all the benefits of antioxidants such as fighting signs of ageing.
Compounds contained in Dang Gui also help increase energy levels and give you vitality. They also help produce chemicals in your brain, which elevate moods and help you control your emotions.
Dang Gui also benefits the digestive system by maintaining proper metabolism and improved immune functioning. By boosting immunity, the herb also helps you protect your body from various diseases and infections.
Since Dang Gui can help control inflammation, it can also be applied topically to contain inflammation and pain. This can be used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other joint problems.

Other Uses

Dang Gui can also be used as a probiotic food.