Dong Quai: Uses, Benefits, Dosage & Safety
Last updated: June 2026 · Reviewed by the FactoWiki Editorial Team for clarity and source accuracy
Quick summary
Dong quai is a traditional Chinese herb for women's health, often combined with others. Quality modern evidence is limited and bleeding-related cautions apply.
What is Dong Quai?
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is a root used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, often in combination formulas, for menstrual and menopausal complaints.
What Dong Quai is commonly used for
In supplements, Dong Quai is most often included for women's hormone & thyroid support. It is used as nutritional support, not as a treatment for any medical condition — the distinction matters, because the claims on a sales page are often stronger than the evidence allows.
How Dong Quai works
Dong quai contains coumarin-like compounds and phytochemicals proposed to affect blood flow and smooth muscle; its traditional use frames it as a 'blood-moving' tonic, but mechanisms in humans are not well defined.
What the evidence says
Here's an honest snapshot of what published research suggests about Dong Quai — including where the evidence is limited.
- Used alone, dong quai has not shown clear benefit for menopausal symptoms in the few controlled trials available. Most traditional use is in multi-herb formulas, which are harder to evaluate.
- Study quality and doses vary, and a result seen in research doesn't guarantee the same for any individual — use the sources below to check the current evidence on Dong Quai rather than relying on marketing claims.
Typical dosage used in studies
Doses vary widely by preparation and tradition; standardised modern dosing is not well established. This is general information from research, not a personal recommendation or a dosing instruction.
Side effects and safety
Dong quai contains compounds that may increase bleeding and photosensitivity, so it is generally avoided with blood thinners, before surgery, and in pregnancy without expert guidance. As with any supplement, it's sensible to introduce Dong Quai on its own, use a trusted brand, and stop if you notice any reaction.
Medication interactions and who should avoid Dong Quai
Medication & safety check
Herbs interact with prescription medicines more often than people expect — affecting drug levels, bleeding, blood pressure, blood sugar or sedation — and Dong Quai is no exception. If you take any regular medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or manage a health condition, confirm Dong Quai is appropriate for you before starting.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. If you take any medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition, confirm it's safe to use Dong Quai with your doctor or pharmacist first.
Sources & further reading
For authoritative background and the current research base on Dong Quai, consult:
- PubMed — search the research on Dong Quai
- NCCIH — Herbs at a Glance
- MedlinePlus — herbs & supplements
- MedlinePlus — drugs, herbs & supplements
Frequently asked questions
Does Dong Quai actually work?
Used alone, dong quai has not shown clear benefit for menopausal symptoms in the few controlled trials available. Most traditional use is in multi-herb formulas, which are harder to evaluate. As with most supplements, results vary between people and the marketing is often stronger than the evidence — so it's worth checking the research before relying on it.
Is Dong Quai safe to take?
For most healthy adults at normal doses it's generally well tolerated, but there are real cautions. Dong quai contains compounds that may increase bleeding and photosensitivity, so it is generally avoided with blood thinners, before surgery, and in pregnancy without expert guidance. If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition, check with a doctor or pharmacist first.
What is Dong Quai used for?
In supplements, Dong Quai is mainly included for women's hormone & thyroid support — as nutritional support, not as a treatment for any medical condition.
Where you'll find Dong Quai
On FactoWiki, Dong Quai is the kind of ingredient you'll see discussed in these supplement categories. Each category guide breaks down what the evidence does and doesn't support.
Related ingredients to explore
Ingredients often studied or formulated alongside Dong Quai — useful for understanding the full picture of a formula.