Angelica Sinensis: Complete Medicinal Profile
Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai, is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the carrot family.
It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat various health conditions due to its medicinal properties, which include anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and antioxidant effects.
The health benefits of Angelica sinensis include reducing menstrual cramps, improving circulation, and boosting the immune system, making it a popular herbal remedy for women's health issues and cardiovascular problems.
The plant can be prepared in various herbal forms, including capsules, teas, and tinctures, which can be used to treat a range of health concerns.
Study of the Day
According to Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica, Angelica sinensis has been found to have medicinal purposes due to the presence of compounds such as (Z)-ligustilide and 11-angeloylsenkyunolide F, which may contribute to its pharmacological activities.
This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Angelica sinensis.
Table of Contents
Uses and Benefits
Angelica sinensis is used to treat a variety of health issues, including high blood pressure, kidney stones, and digestive problems.
It has been traditionally used to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats.
The plant has also been found to have antioxidant and anti-aging properties, which can help to protect against cell damage and promote overall health.
Additionally, Angelica sinensis has been used to boost the immune system, reduce stress and anxiety, and even help with weight loss, making it a popular natural remedy for a range of health concerns.
The health benefits of Angelica sinensis are listed below.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Angelica sinensis has been found to possess anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain in the body.
- Antioxidant properties: The plant contains antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress, which can cause cell damage and contribute to various diseases.
- Immunomodulatory effects: Angelica sinensis has been shown to modulate the immune system, enhancing its ability to fight off infections and diseases.
- Antibacterial and antiviral properties: The plant has been found to exhibit antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it effective against various bacterial and viral infections.
- Cardiovascular health: Angelica sinensis has been found to help reduce blood pressure, improve lipid profiles, and prevent cardiovascular disease.
- Neuroprotective effects: The plant contains compounds that have been found to have neuroprotective effects, which can help prevent or slow down the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Anxiolytic and sedative effects: Angelica sinensis has been found to have anxiolytic and sedative properties, which can help alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
Here are the best health benefits of Angelica sinensis.
Actions
Angelica sinensis has been found to exhibit a range of therapeutic actions, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and immunomodulatory effects, which impact the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and immune system.
This plant also possesses antispasmodic, nervine, and adaptogenic properties, influencing the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and endocrine system.
Additionally, it has been shown to exhibit hepatoprotective, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial actions, affecting the hepatic system, oncological system, and integumentary system.
Furthermore, Angelica sinensis has been found to have anti-convulsant, vasodilatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, impacting the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and cellular system.
The therapeutic actions of Angelica sinensis are listed below.
- Expectorant: Stimulates the secretion of mucus and promotes its expulsion, helping to relieve respiratory issues such as coughs and congestion
- Diaphoretic: Promotes sweating, which can help to reduce fever and relieve symptoms associated with colds and flu
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces swelling, pain, and inflammation in the body, which can be beneficial for conditions such as arthritis and wounds
- Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative damage, which can help to prevent or slow down the progression of diseases associated with aging
- Antimicrobial: Inhibits the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which can help to prevent infections
- Antispasmodic: Relaxes smooth muscles and reduces spasms, which can be beneficial for conditions such as menstrual cramps and digestive issues
- Tonic: Stimulates and nourishes the body, helping to promote overall health and well-being
Constituents
Angelica sinensis has been found to contain a diverse array of bioactive constituents, including volatile oils, such as ligustilide and butylphthalide, which possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Flavonoids like baicalein and baicalin exhibit anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral activities, while terpenoids like ferulic acid and ferulic esters demonstrate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
The plant also contains coumarins like angelixin and bergapten, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties, as well as lignans like lariciresinol and secoisolariciresinol, which have been found to exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
Additionally, the plant contains polysaccharides and phenolic acids, which have been reported to have immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects.
The bioactive constituents of Angelica sinensis are listed below.
- Triterpenoids: A type of bioactive compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, found in angelica sinensis.
- Furanocoumarins: A class of compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, present in angelica sinensis.
- Flavonoids: A group of plant compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, found in angelica sinensis.
- Polysaccharides: Complex carbohydrates that have been shown to have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, found in angelica sinensis.
- Saponins: A type of bioactive compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, found in angelica sinensis.
- Coumarins: A class of compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-coagulant properties, present in angelica sinensis.
- Phenolic acids: A group of plant compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, found in angelica sinensis.
Parts
The most commonly used parts of Angelica sinensis are the roots, leaves, and seeds.
The roots, also known as dang gui, are often used to treat blood-related disorders, such as anemia and poor circulation, and are also used to reduce inflammation and fever.
The leaves, on the other hand, are used to treat respiratory issues, such as bronchitis and coughs, and are also used to lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety.
The seeds, or dong gui zi, are used to treat digestive issues, such as diarrhea and constipation, and are also used to improve milk production in lactating women.
The following table displays the most used parts of of Angelica sinensis and examples of ailments they help cure.
| Parts | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Root | Fever, diarrhea, menstrual cramps |
| Leaf | Asthma, cough, bronchitis |
| Stem | Inflammation, pain, infection |
| Flower | Anxiety, depression, insomnia |
| Seed | Kidney stones, urinary tract infections, menstrual disorders |
Preparations
Angelica sinensis, also known as Dong Quai, is a traditional Chinese herb used for its medicinal properties.
Its most common herbal preparations include infusions, tinctures, and capsules.
Infusions of Dong Quai are used to alleviate menstrual cramps, hot flashes, and menopausal symptoms, while tinctures are used to treat digestive issues, such as bloating and nausea.
Capsules and tablets are commonly used to treat anemia, fatigue, and high blood pressure, and are also used as a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia.
The herbal preparations of Angelica sinensis are listed below.
- Angelica sinensis infusion: A tea made from the roots of the angelica sinensis plant, often used to promote relaxation and reduce stress
- Angelica sinensis tincture: A concentrated liquid extract of the angelica sinensis plant, often used to support cardiovascular health
- Angelica sinensis decoction: A liquid extract of the angelica sinensis plant, made by boiling the roots in water, often used to treat digestive issues
- Angelica sinensis capsules: A powdered extract of the angelica sinensis plant, filled into capsules for easy consumption, often used to support immune function
- Angelica sinensis oil: A topical oil extract of the angelica sinensis plant, often used to reduce inflammation and promote wound healing
- Angelica sinensis salve: A topical cream or ointment made from the angelica sinensis plant, often used to soothe skin irritations and promote skin health
- Angelica sinensis powder: A powdered extract of the angelica sinensis plant, often used as a dietary supplement to support overall health
Side Effects
Angelica sinensis side effects are numerous and can be quite severe for some individuals.
These side effects include dizziness, nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting, which are often reported by people with sensitive stomachs.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as individuals with bleeding disorders, are most likely to experience these side effects, such as increased menstrual flow and uterine contractions.
Precautions should be taken by those who are prone to allergic reactions, as Angelica sinensis can cause symptoms like hives, itching, and swelling, and by people taking medications for diabetes, blood thinning, or high blood pressure, as it may interact with these medications to cause side effects like hypoglycemia, bleeding, and low blood pressure.
The possible side effects of Angelica sinensis are listed below.
- Gastrointestinal upset: May cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain
- Allergic reactions: Can cause skin rashes, itching, or difficulty breathing in rare cases
- Interactions with medications: May interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, or other herbal supplements
- Headaches and dizziness: May cause dizziness, headaches, or lightheadedness due to its blood-thinning properties
- Menstrual irregularities: May affect menstrual cycles, leading to irregular periods or changes in menstrual flow
- Hypotension: May cause a drop in blood pressure, particularly when taken with other blood pressure-lowering medications
- Liver damage: May cause liver damage or elevated liver enzymes in rare cases, particularly with long-term use