Dong Quai Root Powder

Also known as Chinese angelica, a close relative of European angelica, dong quai grows wild in the mountainous forests of Gansu province in China. According to folklore, a husband left his wife to prove himself in the mountains, and he returned years later with the healing plant. Dong quai is especially prized for its large rhizomes — highly branched, yellow-brown on the exterior and creamy white inside — which are carefully dug by hand, then dried.

Dong quai essentially means “proper order” or “return to order” in Chinese and is widely used as a blood tonic in traditional medicine. Sometimes referred to as female ginseng, dong quai is often prescribed as a gynecological remedy; it is thought to improve circulation, regulate the menstrual cycle, and alleviate abdominal pain and headaches. Studies also suggest that the phytoestrogens in dong quai root may relieve symptoms of menopause.

Dong quai is typically prescribed in combination with other herbs. Chopped rhizomes are commonly added to soups, lending a sweet, pungent aroma. Dong quai root powder may be taken as tonic wine, capsule, tincture, infusion or decoction.