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Organic Dong Quai

Also known as: Angelica sinensis, Dong Quai, Dang Gui, Chinese Angelica

Overview

Angelica sinensis, commonly known as Dong Quai, is a plant native to China and other parts of Asia. It is a traditional herbal supplement used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for various health conditions, particularly those related to women's health, such as menstrual and menopausal symptoms. Dong Quai is characterized by its potential estrogenic activity, although its effects are complex and not fully understood. It is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and teas. While some studies suggest potential benefits, the research on Dong Quai is mixed, with many studies suffering from methodological limitations and small sample sizes. Therefore, its efficacy and safety require careful consideration.

Benefits

The evidence supporting the benefits of Dong Quai is limited and mixed. Some studies suggest it may have modest benefits for menopausal symptoms, but these findings are not robust. A systematic review found mixed results regarding its impact on breast cancer patients, with some studies indicating potential estrogenic activity that could be concerning. A randomized controlled trial found no significant benefits for treating hot flashes in men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer. Overall, the effect sizes are generally small and often not clinically significant, and the time course of any potential benefits is unclear due to the lack of consistent positive findings.

How it works

Dong Quai is believed to exert its effects through estrogenic activity, although the exact mechanisms are not well understood. It may interact with estrogen receptors, influencing the reproductive and endocrine systems. However, the specific molecular targets of Dong Quai are not well defined, and its absorption and bioavailability are not well-researched. Further studies are needed to fully elucidate the biological pathways and molecular mechanisms through which Dong Quai operates within the body.

Side effects

Dong Quai is generally considered safe when used in traditional doses, but its long-term safety and potential interactions with other medications are not well studied. Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset and headaches. Potential interactions with blood thinners and other medications, particularly those affecting the endocrine system, should be considered. Patients with breast cancer or other estrogen-sensitive conditions should exercise caution due to the potential estrogenic activity of Dong Quai. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers, should consult healthcare providers before using Dong Quai.

Dosage

There is no established minimum effective dose or optimal dosage range for Dong Quai due to the variability in study findings and the lack of standardized dosing. Traditional dosages vary widely, and the maximum safe dose is not well defined, with long-term safety data lacking. There are no specific timing considerations established for Dong Quai supplementation. It can be found in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and teas, but the bioavailability and efficacy of these forms are not well studied. Users should be cautious about the lack of clear dosing guidelines and potential interactions with other medications.

FAQs

Is Dong Quai effective for menopausal symptoms?

The evidence is mixed, with some studies suggesting modest benefits, but the findings are not robust. More research is needed to confirm its efficacy.

Is Dong Quai safe for individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions?

Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions should consult healthcare providers before using Dong Quai due to its potential estrogenic activity.

Are there any known drug interactions with Dong Quai?

Potential interactions with blood thinners and other medications, particularly those affecting the endocrine system, should be considered. Consult with a healthcare provider.

What is the recommended dosage for Dong Quai?

There is no established optimal dosage range. Traditional dosages vary widely, and users should be cautious about the lack of clear dosing guidelines.

Can Dong Quai be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using Dong Quai due to the lack of safety data in these populations.

Research Sources

https://www.xiahepublishing.com/m/2835-6357/FIM-2023-00002 – This systematic review examined the effects of Dong Quai on breast cancer patients and found mixed results. Some studies suggested no significant impact on breast cancer prognosis, while others indicated potential estrogenic activity that could be concerning. The review used a quantitative forest plot to weigh the reliability of the studies.
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2529629 – This meta-analysis of plant-based therapies for menopausal symptoms suggested that some plant-based therapies, including phytoestrogens and medicinal herbs, may have modest benefits for menopausal symptoms, though the evidence is not strong. The study used random-effects models to minimize between-study heterogeneity. However, it did not specifically isolate the effects of Dong Quai.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33976376/ – This study investigated the effects of a traditional Chinese medicine herbal formula on menopausal symptoms. The formula contained multiple ingredients, including Dong Quai. The results indicated some potential benefits, but the effects of Dong Quai alone could not be determined due to the combination of herbs used.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2811999/ – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial assessed the efficacy of Dong Quai in treating 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. The study was limited by its small sample size and short duration.
https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/15/4/448 – This review discusses the potential benefits of various herbal medicines, including Dong Quai, for women's health. It highlights the traditional uses of Dong Quai in Traditional Chinese Medicine and discusses the current state of research on its efficacy and safety. The review emphasizes the need for more high-quality studies to confirm the benefits of Dong Quai.