Dong quai, popularly nicknamed the ‘female ginseng’, is effective for improving heart health, relieving menstrual cramps, treating infertility, regulating hormone levels, and improving sex drive. The herb also boosts energy levels, lowers blood pressure, combats anemia, and improves skin, bone, as well as mental health.
The name “female ginseng” may discourage some men from using dong quai, but the herb contains components that are beneficial for both genders.
The Health Benefits of Dong Quai
Let’s take a closer look at the amazing health benefits of Dong Quai.
Improves Heart Health
Due to its antispasmodic properties, dong quai can improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and also treating abnormal heart palpitations. This root helps to reduce the accumulation of platelet in the blood vessels and arteries which, in turn, lowers the risks of heart attacks, strokes, and atherosclerosis.
Alleviates Menstruation Problems
Dong quai helps to reduce menstruation problems such as the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and menopause. Dong quai’s antispasmodic properties help to alleviate issues like mood swings, cramping as well as the usual discomfort associated with menstruation. The herb also helps to prevent weakness and tiredness by replenishing the blood lost during menstruation. It can also be helpful for naturally regulating the menstrual cycle for women who want to stop using birth control pills. However, it is essential to note that it is harmful to take dong quai while on your periods.
Works as an Aphrodisiac
According to some studies, dong quai can improve the libido and fertility of both men and women. By simply incorporating some dong quai into your diet, your interest in sex and the chances of conception increases.
Regulates Hormonal Balance
Women find dong quai has very helpful as the herb is effective in regulating estrogen levels in the body. No matter how high or low a woman’s estrogen level is, dong quai supplements and extracts can regulate periods and get the system functioning well.
Possesses Antioxidants
Dong quai contains a wide range of chemical compounds that are beneficial for the body, including removing free radicals and prevent them from causing chronic diseases. In fact, due to its antioxidant compounds, the herb has the potential of lowering one’s chances of developing cancer and heart disease.
Improves Mood
With its arousing capabilities, dong quai is quite effective in reducing depression and its effects on the body. Certain components in dong quai help to trigger the release of serotonin and dopamine and serotonin in the body.
Acts as a Blood Tonic
Dong quai acts as a blood tonic by helping the body produce more blood cells. Since the herb is rich in vitamin B12, biotin, nicotinic acid, and folic acid, it prevents blood clots by acting as a blood thinner and purifier.
Fights Depression
Like we stated earlier, dong quai helps to reduce anxiety, improve mood, prevent depression, and alleviate stress. So for women experiencing the hormonal changes connected with menstruation and menopause, the herb can help in regulating hormones and reducing mood swings. Dong quai is also good for men undergoing depression, stress, or anxiety.
Improves Blood Circulation
The herb is very rich in iron and can significantly improve blood circulation within the body. It’s no news that an increased blood circulation in the body can promote healing and improve energy levels as the body becomes energized with nutrients.
Reduces Inflammation
Dong quai helps to prevent inflammatory issues in the body, which is the body’s natural reaction to combating foreign organisms. The antioxidant in the herb makes it a powerful anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory source for the body.
Treats Premature Ejaculation
It is believed that dong quai is effective for men who suffer from premature ejaculation.
Detoxifies the Body
Dong quai is a rich source of nutrients and vitamins such as vitamin B12, biotin, and folic acid which help to purify the blood and reduce toxicity in the body.
Prevents Anemia
Iron is a major component of red blood cells that prevents anemia and its symptoms such as cognitive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, and headaches. Since dong quai contains iron, it is an effective remedy for anemia.
Aids in Skin Care
Dong quai acts as an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory remedy for skin problems like eczema, psoriasis, and alopecia. In fact, the antioxidants in the herb keep the skin radiant and healthy.
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
According to studies, consuming dong quai regularly improves insulin resistance and lowers blood sugar levels.
Increases Bone Density
Dong quai helps in strengthening bones and helps fight off osteoporosis by increasing bone density. One of the main symptoms in women after menopause is osteoporosis.
Side Effects and Precautions
- Cancer: Cancer patients, especially men suffering from prostate cancer and women suffering from breast cancer should avoid consuming dong quai.
- Blood Clot: Dong quai may lead to blood clots in people with protein deficiency.
- Blood Thinning Effect: Coumarin, one of the key components in dong quai, is actually responsible for blood thinning. So taking the herb along with any other blood thinners like garlic, ginger, or gingko increases the risk of bleeding.
- Medication Interference: Dong quai interferes with medications such as ibrupofen, birth control pills, naproxen, and others. So, it is advisable to steer clear of the herb when on medication.
- Allergy: People who are allergic to dill, celery, or coriander (cilantro) should avoid dong quai as they are of the same family.
