9 Best Benefits Of Angelica Sinensis
Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai, is a perennial plant native to China and other parts of Asia, belonging to the carrot family.
The bioactive compounds present in this plant, including ferulic acid, ligustilide, and butylphthalide, are responsible for its medicinal properties.
The benefits of Angelica sinensis include reducing inflammation and relieving pain, which is attributed to its ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and interact with pain receptors.
Additionally, its antioxidant properties help to protect against oxidative stress and cell damage, thanks to its high content of ferulic acid and other polyphenolic compounds.
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According to Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie, Angelica sinensis has the potential to impede the advancement of fibrotic diseases by modulating inflammation, oxidative stress, immune responses, and metabolism, thereby providing potential health benefits.
This page lists the most important health benefits of Angelica sinensis.
Table of Contents
1. Reduces inflammation
Angelica sinensis reduces inflammation, which is a natural response of the body to injury or damage, characterized by the activation of various cellular and molecular mechanisms to repair and protect the affected area.
This benefit is particularly important as chronic inflammation is linked to the development of various diseases, such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, and can cause symptoms like pain, swelling, and fatigue.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Angelica sinensis are attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including ferulic acid, isobutylphthalide, and ligustilide, which have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and enzymes.
To harness the anti-inflammatory benefits of Angelica sinensis, it is best to use it in herbal preparations such as teas, infusions, or capsules, with recommended dosages and duration of treatment varying depending on individual needs and health conditions.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Tincture
- Dong quai tea
- Infusion
- Powder
The following table displays the major constituents of Angelica sinensis and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces inflammation.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Isorhapontigenin | Arthritis, rheumatism, muscle spasms |
| Ligustilide | Gout, fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel disease |
| Butylphthalide | Neuralgia, myalgia, migraine |
| Nortriterpene | Inflammatory response, swelling, pain |
2. Relieves pain
Angelica sinensis relieves pain by reducing inflammation and discomfort in the body, a benefit that is essential for individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraines.
This benefit is particularly important as chronic pain can significantly impact a person's quality of life, leading to sleep disturbances, mood disorders, and decreased productivity.
The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Angelica sinensis are attributed to its bioactive constituents, including ferulic acid, ligustilide, and butylphthalide, which have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and neurotransmitters.
To harness the pain-relieving properties of Angelica sinensis, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, capsules, and tinctures, which can be consumed after consulting with a healthcare professional to determine the optimal dosage and duration of treatment.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Decoction
The following table displays the major constituents of Angelica sinensis and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Relieves pain.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Ligustilide | Migraine, rheumatoid arthritis, neuralgia |
| Butylphthalide | Muscle spasm, fibromyalgia, menstrual cramp |
| Senkyunolide a | Neuralgia, headache, myalgia |
| Senkyunolide b | Neuralgia, headache, myalgia |
3. Antioxidant properties
Angelica sinensis antioxidant properties refer to the plant's ability to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative stress, which can damage cells and contribute to various diseases.
This benefit is crucial as it can help protect against cell damage, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.
The plant's antioxidant properties are attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including ferulic acid, hesperidin, and polysaccharides, which have been shown to possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
To harness the antioxidant benefits of Angelica sinensis, it is best consumed as a herbal tea, capsule, or tincture, in moderation, as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Tincture
- Capsules
- Tea
- Oil
The following table displays the major constituents of Angelica sinensis and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Antioxidant properties.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Ligustifolin | Neuroprotection, inflammation, cancer prevention |
| Isorhapontigenin | Neuroprotection, oxidative stress, cardiovascular disease |
| Rhaponticin | Neuroprotection, inflammation, antioxidant activity |
4. Improves cardiovascular health
Angelica sinensis improves cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of heart disease, which is crucial for preventing conditions such as high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and heart failure, ultimately leading to a reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes.
This benefit is particularly important due to the alarming rates of cardiovascular diseases worldwide, which are often linked to unhealthy lifestyles and inadequate dietary habits.
The plant's ability to improve cardiovascular health can be attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including triterpenoids, phenolic acids, and volatile oils, which have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasodilatory properties.
To harness the cardiovascular benefits of Angelica sinensis, it is recommended to consume it in herbal preparations such as capsules, teas, or tinctures, typically in dosages of 3-9 grams per day, although it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedy.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Tincture
- Tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Angelica sinensis and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves cardiovascular health.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Ligustifolin | Hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, angina |
| Dongsoongin | Cardiac failure, myocardial infarction, hypotension |
| Isorhapontigenin | Atherosclerosis, thrombosis, cardiac hypertrophy |
5. Lowers blood pressure
Angelica sinensis lowers blood pressure, which is the reduction of the force of blood against the walls of the arteries, typically measured by systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings.
This benefit is important because high blood pressure can lead to serious health issues, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage, as it can cause arteries to become damaged and narrowed over time, ultimately affecting the heart's ability to pump blood efficiently.
Angelica sinensis contains bioactive constituents such as ferulic acid, butylphthalide, and ligustilide, which have been shown to have vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to its ability to lower blood pressure.
To harness the blood pressure-lowering benefits of Angelica sinensis, it can be consumed as a tea, capsule, or tincture, with recommended dosages typically ranging from 2-6 grams of dried root per day or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Tea
- Tincture
The following table displays the major constituents of Angelica sinensis and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Lowers blood pressure.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Ligustifolin | Hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, ischemic heart disease |
| Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ace) inhibitor | Hypertension, cardiac hypertrophy, pulmonary hypertension |
| Berberine | Hypertension, cardiac fibrosis, atherosclerosis |
| Baicalin | Hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, cardiac hypertrophy |
| Oleanolic acid | Hypertension, cardiac fibrosis, cardiomyopathy |
6. Relaxes muscles
Angelica sinensis relaxes muscles by reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation, which can be defined as the relief of muscle strain and spasms.
This benefit is crucial as it helps alleviate conditions such as muscle cramps, spasms, and soreness, which can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, as seen in athletes who experience delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after intense exercise or individuals with fibromyalgia who experience chronic muscle pain.
The plant's ability to relax muscles can be attributed to its bioactive constituents, including ferulic acid, ligustilide, and butylphthalide, which have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and neuromuscular relaxing properties.
To harness the muscle-relaxing properties of Angelica sinensis, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, capsules, or topical creams, which can be consumed or applied as needed to promote relaxation and alleviate muscle tension.
Top Preparations:
- Tincture
- Oil
- Cream
- Infused salve
- Massage oil
The following table displays the major constituents of Angelica sinensis and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Relaxes muscles.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Chlorogenic acid | Muscular cramps, muscle spasms, fibromyalgia |
| Protodioscin | Tension headaches, migraines, neck stiffness |
| Butanol extract | Arthritic pain, rheumatism, neuropathic pain |
7. Antibacterial properties
Angelica sinensis antibacterial properties refer to the plant's ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria, reducing the risk of infection and promoting healing.
This benefit is important because it can help prevent and treat a range of bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, respiratory tract infections, and skin infections, which can be particularly serious in vulnerable populations like the elderly and young children.
The antibacterial properties of Angelica sinensis are attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including ferulic acid, ligustilide, and senkyunolide, which have been shown to exhibit potent antimicrobial activity.
To harness the antibacterial benefits of Angelica sinensis, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, tinctures, and capsules, which can be consumed orally to support immune function and prevent bacterial infections.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Tincture
- Infused oil
- Decoction
- Tea
The following table displays the major constituents of Angelica sinensis and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Antibacterial properties.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Viscotoxin a3 | Staphylococcus aureus, escherichia coli, pseudomonas aeruginosa |
| Viscotoxin b | Salmonella typhi, klebsiella pneumoniae, acinetobacter baumannii |
| Viscotoxin c | Bacillus subtilis, clostridium difficile, candida albicans |
8. Reduces stress
Angelica sinensis reduces stress by promoting relaxation and calming the mind, allowing individuals to better cope with the demands of daily life.
This benefit is important because chronic stress can lead to anxiety, insomnia, and a weakened immune system, ultimately affecting one's overall well-being and productivity, as seen in individuals experiencing burnout or those with chronic pain.
The plant's ability to reduce stress is attributed to its bioactive constituents, including ferulic acid, ligustilide, and butylphthalide, which have been shown to exhibit anxiolytic and sedative effects.
To harness the stress-reducing benefits of Angelica sinensis, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, capsules, or tinctures, which can be consumed after consulting with a healthcare professional to determine the optimal dosage and preparation method.
Top Preparations:
- Extract
- Dong quai tincture
- Tea
- Dong quai capsules
- Supplement
The following table displays the major constituents of Angelica sinensis and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Reduces stress.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Polysaccharides | Anxiety, depression, insomnia |
| Volatile oils | Stress, fatigue, mood disorders |
| Flavonoids | Anxiety, stress, hypertension |
| Coumarins | Anxiety, stress, sleep disorders |
9. Improves respiratory health
Angelica sinensis improves respiratory health by enhancing lung function and alleviating symptoms of respiratory disorders.
This benefit is crucial as respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, causing shortness of breath, wheezing, and coughing.
The plant's ability to improve respiratory health can be attributed to its rich content of bioactive constituents, including ferulic acid, isoflavones, and volatile oils, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
To harness the respiratory benefits of Angelica sinensis, it is best used in herbal preparations such as teas, infusions, and capsules, and can be combined with other herbs to enhance its efficacy.
Top Preparations:
- Extract capsules
- Dong quai tea ()
- Tincture
The following table displays the major constituents of Angelica sinensis and examples of ailments they help cure that are related to Improves respiratory health.
| Constituents | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Ligustifolin | Asthma, bronchitis, chronic cough |
| Butylphthalide | Pneumonia, tuberculosis, laryngitis |
| Cariofilin | Chronic bronchitis, pleurisy, tonsillitis |