Last verified: 17 days ago
Dong Quai
Also known as: Angelica sinensis, Chinese Angelica, Female Ginseng, Dang Gui
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Traditional Chinese herb often used for menopause symptoms, but solo evidence is weak.
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What it does
Dong Quai is a root herb from traditional Chinese medicine, long used for women's health and hormonal balance. When tested alone in a rigorous clinical trial, it did not outperform placebo for hot...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose
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Found in
What the Science Says
Dong Quai is a root herb from traditional Chinese medicine, long used for women's health and hormonal balance. When tested alone in a rigorous clinical trial, it did not outperform placebo for hot flashes or menopausal symptoms. Some combination herbal products containing Dong Quai alongside other botanicals have shown modest benefits for hot flashes and sleep, but it is impossible to isolate Dong Quai's contribution from those blends.
What It Doesn't Do
Does not work as a standalone estrogen replacement. No proof it relieves hot flashes on its own. Not a proven cancer treatment despite lab studies on its compounds. Don't expect it to balance hormones the way marketing claims suggest.
Evidence-Based Benefits
As part of a multi-herb blend, may reduce hot flashes and night sweats in menopausal women.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose for Dong Quai alone
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
A phytoestrogen blend including Dong Quai reduced menstrual migraine frequency in one small trial.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 100 mg/day as part of combination
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Angelica sinensis extract showed strong mosquito repellency in lab and field studies.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 5–25% topical extract
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic data provided in the available studies
Red Flags to Watch For
- Dong Quai can interact with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, potentially increasing bleeding risk
- Most positive clinical evidence comes from multi-herb blends — Dong Quai's solo contribution is unproven
- Contains furanocoumarins that may cause photosensitivity (skin sensitivity to sunlight)
- Should be avoided during pregnancy and by people with hormone-sensitive conditions without medical supervision
- Lab studies on cancer cells are pre-clinical only — do not interpret as evidence of cancer treatment in humans
Products Containing Dong Quai
See how Dong Quai is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Dong Quai do?
Traditional Chinese herb often used for menopause symptoms, but solo evidence is weak.
What is the effective dose of Dong Quai?
No established dose
Is Dong Quai safe?
Dong Quai can interact with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, potentially increasing bleeding risk
What doesn't Dong Quai do?
Does not work as a standalone estrogen replacement.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25