DAAN Chinese Herbs and Acupuncture

For centuries, women in China have regarded Dong Guai as one of the useful herbs for gynecological problems. Known scientifically as Radix Angelicae Sinensis, Dong Guai is a root that is commonly used to tonify and invigorate blood. Daan offers Dong Guai in easy-to-use capsules.

Through these functions, Dong Guai is able to regulate menses, relieve menstrual cramps, moisten intestines, and encourage bowel movement. The root itself is divided into three parts: the head, the main root, and the tail of the root.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the head of the Dong Guai root is considered to be the most blood tonifying section. The tail is used mainly for its blood invigorating ability. In between, the main root contains both functions of tonifying and invigorating blood. Due to its warm property (that is, its ability to improve circulation), one must be cautious of the quantity and the general yin and yang balance of one’s body before using Dong Guai. If one experiences thirst, (especially at night), constipation, scanty and dark yellow urine, night sweats, insomnia with mental restlessness, and/or warm to hot extremities, one ought to reduce the quantity or refrain from using Dong Guai.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dan Gui is usually taken with other herbs:

• to reduce the warm property of Dong Guai (especially in a yin deficient and/or yang preponderance body type)
• to enhance blood tonification or invigorate effect

Although Chinese herbs such as Dong Guai are considered supplements in the United States, one ought to consult with a certified acupuncturist/herbalist before using them, in order to avoid side-effects.