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Dong Quai Powder

Also known as: Dong Quai, Chinese Angelica, Female Ginseng, Angelica sinensis

Overview

Dong Quai, scientifically known as *Angelica sinensis*, is a plant native to China, with its root widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. Often combined with other herbs, it is available as a dietary supplement. It contains bioactive compounds like ferulic acid and polysaccharides. Dong Quai is promoted for treating menstrual and menopausal symptoms, osteoarthritis, and certain cancers. However, research is mixed, with promising in vitro and animal studies contrasted by limited and inconclusive human clinical trials. The available evidence is generally of moderate quality, with few large-scale, well-designed clinical trials. Most studies have small sample sizes and limited durations, necessitating cautious interpretation of findings.

Benefits

The evidence supporting the benefits of Dong Quai is limited and often inconclusive. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial showed no significant reduction in hot flashes for men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest antitumor, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, and neuroprotective effects, but these findings lack robust human clinical validation. While some data suggest potential benefits for managing menstrual and menopausal symptoms, the evidence remains weak. Epidemiological data indicates possible associations with reduced diabetes-related mortalities and endometrial cancer risk in breast cancer survivors, but these observational findings require further confirmation through rigorous clinical trials.

How it works

Dong Quai's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways. Ferulic acid, a component of Dong Quai, may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress by inhibiting the production of interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and matrix metalloproteinases. Polysaccharides from Dong Quai may stimulate insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and IGF1 receptor gene expression, potentially aiding in osteoarthritis treatment by promoting glycosaminoglycan synthesis. Dong Quai may also exhibit estrogenic activity, influencing hormone-sensitive conditions, as demonstrated by in vitro stimulation of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells. However, the absorption and bioavailability of Dong Quai's bioactive compounds in humans remain poorly understood.

Side effects

Dong Quai is generally well-tolerated, but its long-term safety and potential interactions with other medications are not well understood. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset and headache. Potential interactions with anticoagulants and other medications have been noted, suggesting caution for individuals on such therapies. Dong Quai may have additive anticoagulant effects and can induce CYP3A4, potentially affecting the blood levels and effectiveness of substrate drugs. Patients with hormone-sensitive cancers should consult their physicians before using Dong Quai due to its estrogenic activity. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution due to the lack of safety data. It may also interact with dual antiplatelet therapy and certain medications like lisinopril and clozapine.

Dosage

There is no established minimum effective dose for Dong Quai, as the efficacy and safety data are limited. In one study, 500 mg of Dong Quai per day did not show significant benefits for hot flashes. There is no well-defined maximum safe dose. Dong Quai can be consumed in various forms, including capsules and tablets, but the bioavailability and efficacy of these forms are not well studied. The absorption of Dong Quai's bioactive compounds is not well understood, and there is no evidence to suggest that any cofactors are required for its efficacy. Due to limited data, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting Dong Quai supplementation.

FAQs

Is Dong Quai safe to use?

Dong Quai is generally well-tolerated, but potential interactions with medications and its estrogenic activity require careful consideration. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have hormone-sensitive conditions or are taking other medications.

When should I take Dong Quai?

There are no specific timing recommendations available for Dong Quai. Due to limited evidence on its efficacy and absorption, it is best to follow the advice of a healthcare professional regarding timing and administration.

What results can I expect from taking Dong Quai?

Current evidence does not strongly support significant benefits for most claimed uses, especially for hot flashes. Research is ongoing, but the efficacy of Dong Quai for various conditions remains inconclusive.

Is Dong Quai effective for menopausal symptoms?

Dong Quai is often promoted for menopausal symptoms, but the evidence supporting its efficacy for these conditions is inconclusive. More research is needed to determine its potential benefits.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2811999/ – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effect of Dong Quai on hot flashes in men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer. The study found no significant differences in the severity, frequency, or duration of hot flashes between the Dong Quai and placebo groups, suggesting that Dong Quai is not effective for this purpose in this population.
https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/15/4/448 – This review of in vitro and animal studies explores the potential mechanisms of action and benefits of Dong Quai. The review highlights that Dong Quai extracts demonstrated antitumor, pro-apoptotic, anti-metastatic, and neuroprotective effects in vitro and in animal models, but emphasizes the lack of human clinical trial data to support these findings.
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/dong-quai – This resource provides a general overview of Dong Quai, including its traditional uses, potential benefits, and safety considerations. It notes that while Dong Quai is often used for menstrual and menopausal symptoms, scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited and further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33976376/ – This study likely investigates the effects of Dong Quai on various health outcomes. Further information about the specific findings and methodology would be needed to provide a more detailed summary, but it contributes to the body of evidence regarding Dong Quai's potential benefits and limitations.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/41467118_Dong_Quai_angelica_sinensis_in_the_treatment_of_hot_flashes_for_men_on_androgen_deprivation_therapy_results_of_a_randomized_double-blind_placebo_controlled_trial – This study, a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial, examined the efficacy of Dong Quai in treating hot flashes in men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy. The results indicated that Dong Quai did not significantly reduce the severity, frequency, or duration of hot flashes compared to the placebo, suggesting it is not an effective treatment for this condition.