What is the recommended dose of Dong Quai?

- **Look for:** Standardized Angelica sinensis root extract, ligustilide content specified, from reputable TCM manufacturer - **Avoid:** Essential oil form (concentrated furanocoumarins); combinati...

Is Dong Quai safe to take daily?

Dong Quai is rated "Generally Safe" based on clinical evidence. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

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Ingredient Research

Graded against 173,636 supplements + 177 published clinical interactions, sourced from PubMed, FDA CAERS, openFDA, NIH DSLD

Dong Quai

MODERATE EVIDENCESupplementLast updated

AVELOR SUMMARY

Dong quai is called "female ginseng" in traditional Chinese medicine and is one of the most widely used herbs for menstrual and menopausal complaints in Asia. Our research shows the clinical evidence does NOT support its use as a standalone treatment — the only rigorous RCT found it was no better than placebo for menopausal symptoms. It contains coumarins with anticoagulant activity and furanocoumarins that cause photosensitivity. Its primary risk is bleeding when combined with anticoagulants.

WHAT IT DOES

Dong quai contains three pharmacologically active compound classes: (1) phthalides (ligustilide, butylphthalide) — smooth muscle relaxants that may relieve menstrual cramps; (2) coumarins — natural blood thinners that inhibit platelet aggregation; and (3) ferulic acid — an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. In TCM theory, it "nourishes blood" and "invigorates circulation." The coumarin content is the primary safety concern — it genuinely affects clotting.

OPTIMAL DOSAGE

Look for: Standardized Angelica sinensis root extract, ligustilide content specified, from reputable TCM manufacturer
Avoid: Essential oil form (concentrated furanocoumarins); combination "menopause blends" with undisclosed amounts; products not tested for heavy metals (Chinese herbs have higher contamination risk)
Minimum effective dose: 1,500mg/day dried root equivalent (though evidence for efficacy is limited regardless)
Third-party tested brands: Nature's Way, Oregon's Wild Harvest (both test for heavy metals)

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SAFETY PROFILE

Critical Interactions (Do Not Combine Without Medical Supervision)

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

Theoretical/Low-Risk Interactions

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Independently graded against 173,636 indexed supplements with 177 published clinical interactions, sourced from PubMed, FDA CAERS, openFDA, and NIH DSLD | Last updated:

Not medical advice. Based on published clinical research and systematic reviews.

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