Dong Quai Uses

Dong quai is best known as a "female herb" because of its ability to alleviate a range of menstrual problems. However, this herb has numerous curative properties and can be used to treat a variety of illnesses affecting both men and women.

Read on to learn about the traditional uses of this herb.

Cultural Practices and Traditional Uses of Dong Quai

In traditional Chinese medicine Dong quai was used primarily to treat women's gynecological problems but it was also used as a blood tonic by both genders.

What Is A Tonic
A tonic is a liquid substance used for healing. It used in many traditional practices, including traditional Chinese medicine. Herbal tonics, such as Dong quai, can nourish cells, tissues, and organs and have a positive effect on the whole body. Dong quai works most specifically on the hormonal and immune systems.

Dong quai has been used for hundreds of years as a tonic for women because of its effects on the female reproductive system. Dong quai can regulate hormonal imbalances due to the fact it contains estrogenic substances, which can either boost estrogenic effects when levels are too low or compete with the hormone when levels are too high

Dong quai tonic nourishes the blood and boosts circulation. It alleviates symptoms associated with PMS, infertility, and menopause.

Now that Dong quai�s traditional uses have been explained, continue reading to learn about its modern day uses.

Modern Uses of Dong Quai

Though used primarily for women, Dong quai has many properties that enable it to cure or ease symptoms in both genders.

Properties of Dong Quai
Analgesic
Anti-inflammatory
Antispasmodic
Blood Tonic
Diuretic
Emmenagogue
Sedative

As a blood purifier, it works to boost circulation, stabilize blood pressure, dilate peripheral blood vessels, and nourish the blood. It also eases chronic pelvic disorders and headaches caused by blood deficiencies.

As Dong quai is rich in iron, it is useful to prevent iron deficiency and anemia.

The herb is a mild sedative that can relieve stress, calm nerves, and combat insomnia.

Dong quai is a mild laxative and it moistens intestines and moves dormant stools. Dry intestine and constipation (particularly in the elderly) is often a result of deficient blood.

Dong quai sends oxygen to the liver which helps treat hepatitis and cirrhosis.

The herb can help remedy abdominal pain, traumatic injuries, mild injuries, arthritis, and migraines.

Different Dong Quai Products

Dong quai comes in a variety of forms. The Dong quai capsule is the most common, and can be purchased in most health stores. The herb is also available in powdered or dried root/root slices, fluid extracts, tinctures, decoctions, and dried leaf preparations, all of which are taken orally. Topical preparations are also available, as is Dong quai tea.

Dosage of Dong Quai

Dong quai dosage is somewhat questionable. Its supplements have not been sufficiently tested to determine their safety and effectiveness. Thus, it is important to remember that, as with all herbal combinations, each brand contains different amounts of Dong quai and that a consultation with a trained nutritionist or health care provider is recommended. Dong quai herbs are not suggested for children as the potential side effects are unclear.

Overdose

The symptoms of a Dong quai overdose remain uncertain as the herb has yet to be evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, and purity. Furthermore, no regulated manufacturing standards exist for Dong quai compounds. It is suggested that standardized extracts, tinctures, and solid formulations of Dong quai supplements provide a reliable dose of the product. Again, consult a healthcare provider before taking Dong quai.

Also, keep in mind that unless directed to do so by a healthcare professional, different formulations of Dong quai (tablets, teas, tinctures etc) should not be used at the same time, in order to avoid an overdose.

Safety of Dong Quai

Dong quai can increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight or cause rashes and skin inflammation. When taking Dong quai it�s best to stay out of the sun and as always, use sunscreen.

It is also believed that Dong quai can increase the risk of breast cancer, though the safety of this herb has yet to be proven.Dong quai should not be combined with pharmaceutical drugs or other herbs and dietary supplements. Dong quai should not be combined with pharmaceutical drugs or other herbs and dietary supplements.

Now that the uses of Dong quai have been explained in detailed. Click the following link to read about dong quai benefits.

Conclusions About Dong Quai

Despite its potential side effects, many women benefit from taking Dong quai and curative properties. Dong quai is a natural remedy that can aid gynecological problems, as well as ailments affecting both genders. However, other alternative treatments are just as effective as Dong quai but without the side effects.