Herbal Information for Organic Chinese Angelica Root in Powder Form
The Comprehensive Guide to Dang Gui: Benefits, Uses, and More
Introduction to Dang Gui
Dang Gui, also known as Angelica sinensis or "female ginseng," is a renowned herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, particularly those related to women's health. The root of the plant is the part most commonly used for its medicinal properties. In this article, we will explore the numerous benefits of Dang Gui, its traditional and modern uses, and how it can be integrated into your wellness routine.
Health Benefits of Dang Gui
1. Menstrual Health
Dang Gui is best known for its positive effects on menstrual health. It helps to balance hormonal levels, reduce menstrual cramps, and regulate irregular periods. The herb is often recommended for women experiencing amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) and dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation).
2. Blood Tonic
Dang Gui is considered a powerful blood tonic in TCM. It helps to enrich and invigorate the blood, which can be beneficial for individuals suffering from anemia or general fatigue. By improving blood circulation, Dang Gui can enhance overall vitality and energy levels.
3. Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
The active compounds in Dang Gui, such as ferulic acid and polysaccharides, exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These properties help to protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, which can prevent chronic diseases and support overall health.
4. Cardiovascular Health
Dang Gui has been shown to promote cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure. Its ability to relax blood vessels and enhance circulation makes it a valuable herb for maintaining a healthy heart and preventing cardiovascular diseases.
5. Immune System Support
The polysaccharides found in Dang Gui play a crucial role in supporting the immune system. They enhance the body's ability to fight off infections and illnesses, making Dang Gui an excellent herb for boosting overall immunity.
Common Name: Chinese Angelica Root
Botanical Name: Angelica sinensis; Radix
Channels/Meridians: Liver, Heart, Spleen
Pin Yin Name: You Ji Dang Gui Pian
Other Ingredients: None, No fillers or excipients
Package Size: One Pound (1lb)
Form: Organic, Sliced
Origin: China
Brand: Nuherbs Organics
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not use with Chronic Diarrhea. Dong quai may contain estrogen-like compounds and should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women, children, or people with breast cancer. Do not use with bleeding disorders. May interfere with medications.
The History and Traditional Uses of Dang Gui
Dang Gui has a long history in TCM, dating back over 2,000 years. It is primarily valued for its ability to nourish and invigorate the blood, making it a staple in treatments for blood deficiency and related conditions. Traditionally, it has been used to:
- Regulate menstrual cycles
- Alleviate menstrual pain
- Promote blood circulation
- Reduce inflammation
- Strengthen the immune system
- Tonifies Blood
- Disperses Cold
- Harmonized the Blood
- Liver
- Heart
- Spleen
Naturally Occurring Components
Essential Oils, Carvacrol, Isoeugenol, Succinic acid, Arabigalactan, Zinc, Selenium, Sitosterol, Acoradiene, Chamigrene, α-Cedrene
Ligustilide, n-Butyl-tetrahydrophthalide, n-Butyl-phthalide, n-Buty- lidene phthalide, Dodecanol, Bergapten
Frequently Asked Questions About Dang Gui Pian
Q: Are there any side effects of using Dang Gui Pian?
A: While generally considered safe, Dang Gui Pian may cause interactions with certain medications and is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or a TCM practitioner before incorporating Dang Gui Pian into your wellness routine.
Q: How can I consume Dang Gui Pian?
A: Dang Gui Pian is commonly available in various forms, including dried slices, powders, and capsules. It can be consumed as a tea by steeping the dried herb slices in hot water or incorporated into recipes, such as soups or herbal formulations. For precise dosages and usage instructions, it is best to consult with a TCM practitioner or follow the guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Q: Can I use Dang Gui Pian alongside other medications or supplements?
A: It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using Dang Gui Pian alongside other medications or supplements, as there may be potential interactions. This precaution ensures your safety and allows for personalized guidance based on your individual health needs.
Q: How long should I use Dang Gui Pian before noticing results?
A: The time frame for experiencing results may vary from person to person, depending on individual factors and the specific health condition being addressed. It is advisable to follow the recommended dosage and usage instructions provided by a healthcare professional or TCM practitioner and allow sufficient time for the herb to take effect. Patience and consistency are key when using traditional medicinal herbs.
Q: Is Dang Gui Pian suitable for everyone?
A: While Dang Gui Pian is generally safe for most individuals, it may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional or TCM practitioner before using this herb, especially if you have specific health conditions, are taking medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Q: Can Dang Gui Pian be used in combination with other Chinese herbs?
A: Yes, Dang Gui Pian can be combined with other Chinese herbs to create customized herbal formulations tailored to individual health needs. However, it is recommended to seek guidance from a qualified TCM practitioner who can prescribe a suitable combination and dosage based on your specific health condition.
What Does Dang Gui Pian Look Like?
Dang Gui Pian, is a sliced Dang Gui, that to some people looks like a big tooth; however, looking like a tooth is not its claim to fame. The most noted information about Dang Gui is it is known as the Female Ginseng. The Dang Gui medicinal roots are harvested at the end of autumn. The are cleaned from all excess dirt and debris, and tied into small bundles. The small bundles allows for the moisture evaporate.
What Are The Differences Among Dang Gui Tou, Dang Gui Wei, and Dang Gui Pian?
Dang Gui, also known as Angelica sinensis or Chinese Angelica Root, is a widely used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The herb is divided into different parts, each with unique properties and applications. Below, we outline the primary differences between Dang Gui Tou (head), Dang Gui Wei (tail), and Dang Gui Pian (slices).
Dang Gui Tou (当归头) - The Head
- Part of the Plant: Refers to the head or top portion of the Dang Gui root.
- Properties: Has the strongest tonifying effect among the three parts.
- Primary Use:
- Known for its potent blood-nourishing and tonifying properties.
- Used in formulas aimed at reinforcing blood and energy.
- Applications:
- Ideal for treating conditions related to blood deficiency such as anemia, fatigue, and menstrual irregularities.
- Often used in tonics to strengthen overall vitality and health.
- Energetics: Considered warm and more tonifying compared to other parts of the root.
Dang Gui Wei (当归尾) - The Tail
- Part of the Plant: Refers to the tail or lower portion of the Dang Gui root.
- Properties: Has a stronger blood-invigorating and blood-moving effect.
- Primary Use:
- Known for its ability to move and activate blood circulation.
- Often used to treat blood stasis conditions.
- Applications:
- Effective for conditions involving blood stagnation such as pain, menstrual cramps, and bruising.
- Used in formulas for improving blood flow and relieving pain.
- Energetics: Slightly warm with a focus on moving and activating blood, rather than tonifying it.
Dang Gui Pian (当归片) - Slices of the Whole Root
- Part of the Plant: Slices can come from any part of the Dang Gui root (head, body, or tail).
- Properties: Represents a balanced combination of the properties of the head and tail.
- Primary Use:
- Offers a general, well-rounded blood-tonifying and blood-moving effect.
- Suitable for various conditions needing both nourishment and circulation support.
- Applications:
- Used in a variety of formulas for its versatile properties.
- Commonly found in preparations addressing both blood deficiency and stagnation.
- Energetics: Moderately warm, providing a balanced approach to both nourishing and moving blood.
Summary of Key Differences
- Dang Gui Tou is primarily used for tonifying and nourishing blood, making it ideal for conditions of blood deficiency.
- Dang Gui Wei is focused on moving and invigorating blood, making it more suitable for conditions involving blood stasis and pain relief.
- Dang Gui Pian provides a balanced effect and is used in a wider range of applications for both nourishing and moving blood.
How to Use Bulk Herbs:
The sliced form of Dang Guiis great in soups. Though many will use the sliced root as a decoction. The decoction may take up to 1 hour to brew.
Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly. Our web page is constantly expanding, as of today we have articles on:
- How to make salves, poultice, tinctures, teas, capsules, gargles, and foot bathes
- How to make a citrus facial splash
- Cayenne pepper: Caterpillar and aphid spray ( Natural insect repellent )
- Citrus potpourri basket
GMP Statement
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) are guidelines that govern the manufacturing process of a product to ensure that the quality and safety of the product is consistent. To ensure compliance and traceability, each step of the manufacturing process must be documented and adhere to its defined guidelines. By documenting the manufacturing process, validating the equipment used, and following preset guidelines, the manufacture ensure the quality of each lot of their products.
About Nuherbs Lab Tested Quality
Each batch of herbs is dual-lab tested by our in-house lab and independent third party lab. Our in-house lab is equipped with instruments such as a high performance liquid chromatography, moisture determination meter, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, gas chromatograph, etc.
In addition, the following additional tests are performed:
- Micro bacteria
- Pesticides - over 200 pesticides tested for (Uab 2000 screen).
- Heavy Metals - Lead, Mercury and Arsenic
Traditional Chinese Herbs encompasses the use of different parts of plants, such as the leaves, roots, stems, flowers, and seeds. These plant parts are often used as a tea, decoctions, extracts, made into capsules or even a footbath. These bulk herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs ( Teas ) emphasize harmony and balance.
We encourage you to educate yourself on herbs and supplements, by researching reputable sites, and books. Having an open discussion with your physician on what will be most beneficial for your health issues. And lastly discussing interaction of herbs and pharmaceuticals with your pharmacist or physician.
References:
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/dong-quai
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3174116/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874113008933
https://draxe.com/nutrition/dong-quai/
https://magazine.circledna.com/angelica-sinensis-benefits-10-health-benefits-of-angelica-sinensis-root-extract/
https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/DangGui.html
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-936/dong-quai
