Angelica sinensis

Angelica sinensis, commonly known as "dong quai" or "female ginseng" is a herb from the family Apiaceae, indigenous to China. Its drying root is commonly known in Chinese as Radix Angelicae Sinensis, or Chinese angelica (traditional Chinese: 當歸; simplified Chinese: 当归; pinyin: dāngguī) and is widely used in Chinese traditional medicine to treat gynecological ailments, fatigue, mild anemia and high blood pressure. Chinese angelica possesses the distinction of being one of the few good non-animal source of Vitamin B12, along with some varieties of yeast and microalgae like spirulina.[1][2]. It has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and sedative effects. The plant's phytochemicals consist of coumarins, phytosterols, polysaccharides, ferulate, and flavonoids.

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It is also used as an aphrodisiac.

A. sinensis is also used in traditional Korean medicine, where it is called danggwi (당귀).

Being a uterine tonic and hormonal regulator this herb is an effective herb for female reproductive system. It is often used in premenstrual syndrome formulas as well as menopausal formulas.

See also

• Angelica
• Chinese herbology