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Angelica Root and Its Benefit.

 Contents:

• Basic Botanical Data of Angelica Spectrum and Family.
• What does Angelica and Angelica Root Mean?
• Narrative History and Archeology of Angelica Spectrum.
• Traditional Uses of Angelica Family.
• Narrative and Description of Chinese Angelica.
• Application and function of Chinese Angelica Root.
• Phytochemicals and Contents of Chinese Angelica Root.
• Dong Quai Root Aid for hormones Using.
• Chinese Angelica Root.Dang Gui and Its Modern Indications.
• Chinese Angelica Root Modern Research.
• Narrative and Description of European Angelica.
• Application and Uses of European Angelica.
• Photo Gallery of Angelica Root.

 Application and function of Chinese Angelica Root.

Functions and Key Actions:

 antibiotic,antispasmodic,blood tonic,circulatory stimulant,female tonic,blood sugar lever decreasor,laxative,promotes menstrual flow,regulates uterine contractions,sedative,strengthens liver function,antibacterial,antifungal,antiviral,etc.
 Tonifys blood, promotes blood circulation, regulates menstruation, alleviates pain, and lubricates the bowels to relieve constipation.
 Chinese angelica root is a well-known Chinese herb that has been used in the treatment of female ailments for thousands of years. Its reputation is perhaps second only to ginseng (Panax ginseng) and it is particularly noted for its 'blood tonic' effects on women. The root has a sweet pungent aroma that is very distinctive and it is often used in cooking, which is the best way to take it as a blood tonic.
 Being sweet, warm and moist in property, this herb serves function of replenishing blood; and being pungent, warm and volatile in nature, it also can promote blood circulation, as a main herb for enriching blood and promoting the circulation of blood to regulate menstruation and relieve pain.
 It is often used to treat any syndromes of blood-deficiency, various kinds of pain due to blood stasis, menoxenia, sores, ulcers, swellings and traumatic ecchymoma, etc. It also functions in nourishing blood and lubricating the bowel, serving for constipation due to blood deficiency and dryness in the bowel.
 

A.Hematological Effects:

 Stimulates Hematopoiesis:Dang Gui stimulates Hematopoiesis; promotes production of interleukin-2 by splenic lymphocytes and secreting of clone stimulating factor. Angelica Polysaccharide,Biotin, vitamin B12 and folonic acid remarkably stimulates hematopoiesis in the bone marrow. Recent studies proved a decoction of angelica root and astragalus root(DBT) which traditionally used to raise the "Qi" and nourish the "Blood" tested on myelosuppression mice at dosage 10mg/kg/day,good result proved this combination DBT might promote haematopoiesis and thrombopoiesis in the mouse model via 3 compositive mechanisms:a.directly promoting the growth of megakaryocytes;b.indirectly promoting the growth of bone marrow stromal cells;c.inhibiting apoptosis of megakaryocytes(64.).
 Antithrombotic Effects:Dang Gui decreases blood viscosity and inhibits platelet aggregation. This effect is possibly due to inhibition of thromboxane or lowering of fibrinogen levels. Also, the chemical components ferulic acid and sodium ferulate inhibit platelet aggregation.Sodium ferulate inhibits thromboxane A2 synthetase.

B.Cardiovascular Effects:

 Cardiovascular Efficacy:A positive effect was reported in clinical trials of Dang Gui on cerebral arteriosclerosis and chronic pulmonary obstruction.

 Hypotensive:Dang Gui increases blood flow without affecting heart rate. It dilates coronary vessels and increases coronary blood flow yet also reduces respiratory rate.

 Antiarrhythmic:Dang Gui has been found to be antiarrhythmic in animal studies.

 Decreases Blood Lipids:Dang Gui decreases blood lipids (cholesterol) and reduces pathological changes in animal aorta in experimenting with arteriosclerosis

 Vasodilator:The chemical component nicotinic acid has been found to be a vasodilator.

 Cardioprotective effect and antioxidant:Dang Gui has been found to be cardioprotective against damage caused by myocardial ischemia.a decoction of Astragali and Angelica roots observed to enhance myocardial mitochondrial as well as red blood cell (RBC) glutathione status and boost resistance to oxidative stress-induced injury.This recipe would be rather a herb decoction than a mixture of extracts standardized when intended to get more potent cardioprotective effect.The measurement of RBC glutathione status may serve as a useful index for the antioxidant effect produced by DBT treatment in human subjects.(10.),investigations of Dang-Gui Buxue Tang (DBT)'s cytoprotective action causally related to the increase in cellular level of reduced glutathione (GSH) level in a concentration-dependent manner, which is likely mediated by the enhancement of GSH synthesis and regeneration(25.).Some experiment process on Z-ligustilide(the main lipophilic component of angelica essential oil) showed significantly reduce the phenylephrine-induced aortic tension in vitro with IC(50) about 64 mug/ml,but no in vivo effect on systolic blood pressure in SHR rats when administrated orally(29.).Chronic cardiotoxicity doxorubicin-induced type experiment on mice showed,orally administration of Angelica sinensis at dosage 15 g/kg 4weeks significantly reduced mortality and improved heart performance of the doxorubicin-treated mice,A. sinensis elicited a typical cardioprotective effect on doxorubicin-related oxidative stresscould be a novel adjunct in the combination with doxorubicin chemotherapy(41.).Angelica root and ChuanXiong root recent experiment showed that angiogenic effects identified which give some explain for the treatment of myocardial infarction and peripheral ischemia with these 2 herbs,for the application to cure ischemic heart disease,other mechanism already known included increase myocardial blood flow,oxygen-supply and keep myocardial oxygen balance(47.).

C.Uterine Effects:

 Amenorrhea and Infertility:Dang Gui has shown clinical efficacy in amenorrhea, infertility due to menstrual cycles without ovulation, dysmenorrheal and premenstrual Syndrome. In dysmenorrhea,Dang Gui may help to normalize blood index,prostaglandin F2 in plasma and prostaglandin F2 in menstrual blood. Hematopoietic function of the ancient recipe named DBT(Dang-Gui Buxue Tang,composed of Radix Astragali and Radix Angelicae Sinensis) investigated on on the molecular level recently,cultured Hep3B human hepatocellular carcinoma cells test got a result(45.)

 Pre-menstrual Syndrome:Dang Gui may help decrease uterine cramping, breast pain and inflammation.Experiments showed that Dang Gui can have both an inhibiting and stimulating effect on the uterus with lab animals.

 Menopause Symptoms and menopausal irregularity:Dang Gui may help decrease severity and frequency of hot flashes, dizziness, stomach ache, blurred vision, constipation and lack of appetite.Systematic review studies processed on several herbs for the treatment of menopausal symptoms showed that black cohosh (n = 4), red clover (n = 4), kava (n = 3), dong quai (n = 1), evening primrose oil (n = 1), ginseng (n = 1), and combination products (n = 4),which showed that the evidence for black cohosh is promising,studies involving red clover suggest it benefit for more severe menopausal symptoms,above comparative result got from outcome measures related to the physical or psychological impact of menopause, whether by compendium scores,questionnaires,or women's symptom diaries,excluding studies describing artificially induced menopause.(22.).According to sme recent investigations on DBT(Danggui Buxue Tang,decoction of Radix Astragali and Radix Angelica sinensis) which used for treating menopausal irregularity in women for more than 800 years in China,result showed that ligustilide is a negative regulator that hinders DBT to achieve its biological efficacy,this result based on 2 identified findings,one is the increase of ligustilide caused a decrease of DBT's osteogenic activity in stimulating proliferation and differentiation of cultured bone cells,another is in the presence of a high level of ligustilide, DBT caused a side effect inducing the proliferation of breast MCF-7 cells.And these result support the traditional practice of preparing DBT using the ethanol-treated Radix Angelica sinensis,by which markedly reduced the amount of ligustilide in RAS and DBT(71.).Thus for such kind of applications a crude ethanol extracts of RAS normally works better than a standardized RAS saps to ligustilide.

 Angelica sinensis is one of the important tonic herbs for the uterus.It is said shares a general tonic effect with the other uterine tonic.Experiment test proved that when given angelica sinensis,irradiated mice had longer survival times and adult female mice maintained a higher fertility rate,the latter effect is thought to be related to a protective effect on ovarian tissue.Angelica sinensis got referred to as a blood tonic in TCM for its general and non-specific affects on the blood and circulation.One most important effects of angelica sinensis is the impact on the uterus."As with Rubus,Angelica sinensis appears to contain a number of components which can increase tone,strenthen contractions,improve the orderly rhythm of contractions and relax the uterine muscle."(73.).Essential oil content ligustilide and ferulic acid considered as the major components with the uterine spasmolytic effect.All components release a slight increase in uterine activity or a mild emmenagogic effect.This herb should not be used in the first trimester of pregnancy unless prescribed by a trained herbalist as part of a traditional formula.

D. Immune Regulating Effects:immunomodulatory,immune boosting,increase Phagocytosis.

Increases Phagocytosis:Dang Gui extract and Ferulic Acid increased phagocytosis and interleukin-2 production.
Inhibits Allergic Reaction:Dang Gui extract inhibited allergic (IgE) antibody formation and inflammation
Increases Immunity and Anti-Cancer Effect:The Dang Gui polysaccharide component stimulates the immune system increasing immunity and has been found to have an anti-cancer effect.Angelica sinensis extracts showed inhibited the proliferation of B16-BL6 metastatic cells and its migration capacity significantly,dosage for mice at concentration of 3.67 mg/kg,the mechanism comes from inhibit the B16-BL6 cells adhering to the ECM and reduce the migration of B16-BL6 cells(35.).

 Ancient Chinese Herbalist invented a traditional formula works great for immune boosting,its name is Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT),which blended composed of Radix Astragali and Radix Angelicae Sinensis at ratio of 5:1(described in China in 1231 A.D.),modern test of this recipes on cultured T-lymphocytes and macrophages shows good results:induced markedly cell proliferation of T-lymphocytes,secretion of interleukin-2,phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase,increase the phagocytosis of cultured macrophages,modern testing showed that ancient Chinese Herbalist clear and already found an optimal way in stimulating immune responses with these 2 herbs,it saved so many lives.(7.).This recipe would be rather a herb decoction than a mixture of extracts standardized when intended to get more potent cardioprotective effect,increase the red blood cell (RBC) glutathione status and boost resistance to oxidative stress-induced injury(10.).This recipe registered earliest in ancient chinese herbal class named Nei Wai Shang Bian Huo Lun,written by great herbalist Li Dongyuan(Li Gao,1180~1251),it is said he is good at cure but normally guide other doctors as a Rector.
 

 Also the isolated component Angelica sinensis polysaccharide (AP) proved showing immunomodulatory activity,primary activated macrophages and natural killer cells,secondarily affected helper T cell ,these including regulating expression of Th1 and Th2 related cytokines,prompt proliferation of total spleen cells,macrophages and T cells,enhance IL-2 and IFN-gamma gene expression yet decrease IL-4 gene expression,remarkably increase CD4(+)T cell in total spleen cells(8.).For the mechanism related,macrophage activation via Angelica sinensis Polysaccharides got investigated,AAP(acidic polysaccharide fraction) significantly enhanced nitric oxide (NO) production and cellular lysosomal enzyme activity in murine peritoneal macrophages in vitro and in vivo,through the induction of iNOS(inducible nitric oxide synthase) gene expression(40.).Further isolated polysaccharide content of Angelica sinensis named APS-2a test proved inhibition on proliferation of tumor cells in mice transplanted S-180 at concentration 20.50 mg/kg,APS-2a majorly composed of monosaccharide such as glucose,galactose, arabinose, rhamnose, galcturonic acid(50.72.).Other studies investigated antitumor effects from Angelica sinensis phthalides(including n-butylidenephthalide(BLP),senkyunolide A(SKA) and z-ligustilide(LGT)),all these phthalides dose-dependently decreased cell viability more potently in HT-29 than in CCD-18Co cells,inhibiting cell proliferation,yet stronger anti-tumor effect comes from other components togethor(51.).
 

 Antitumor on hepatocellular carcinoma:Antitumor study proved that N-butylidenephthalide,an isolated components from chloroform extract of Angelica sinensis,shows antitumor effects on hepatocellular carcinoma cells(such as HepG2 and J5 xenograft),induced apoptosis in these hepatocellular carcinoma cells,suggesting potential clinical use of this compound for improving the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells and treatment of liver cancer,this components also proved antitumor effects on glioblastoma multiforme brain tumors(49.).Some recent experiment suggested Angelica Root and some other herbs(including Astragalus membranaceus,Andrographis paniculata,Eucommia ulmodes Oliv leaves,Isatis indigotica Fort. and Morus alba L.) ethyl acetate fractions show anti-inflammatory properties,exerted significant NF-kappaB inhibitory activity(60.).
 

 Anti-Infection of Cryptosporidium:recent experiment processed on immunosuppressed mice infected by Cryptosporidium parvum with administrations of DBT(Danggui Buxue Tang) get some good result,it seems high dose (2 g/kg) applications significantly reduced oocysts in feces of mice,high dose DBT decoction plays a role of prophylaxis on the infection of C. parvum in immunosuppressed mice through improving the immune status(61.).Cryptosporidium parvum is one of several species that cause cryptosporidiosis, a parasitic disease of the mammalian intestinal tract.Primary symptoms of C. parvum infection are acute, watery, and non-bloody diarrhoea. C. parvum infection is of particular concern in immunocompromised patients, where diarrhea can reach 10 to 15L per day. Other symptoms may include anorexia, nausea/vomiting and abdominal pain.Cryptosporidium parvum ever found in plant such green onion.

E. Other Effects:

 Antiviral and Antibacterial Effect:Dang Gui has an antiviral effect against herpes, poliomyelitis and the influenza virus.It also has antibacterial effect against gram-negative and gram-positive organisms. Recent study on mice from lethal sepsis which given ASC(Angelica sinensis,Salvia miltiorrhiza and Camellia sinensis) showed these herbs can be potential HMGB1- targeting therapeutic agents,HMGB1 is a pro-inflammatory cytokines which may sustain a potentially injurious inflammatory response act as late mediator of lethal sepsis,Sepsis refers to a systemic inflammatory response syndrome resulting from a microbial infection, which kills over than 225,000 people annually in the U.S. alone(59.).

 Antioxidant effects(on on FeCl2-ascorbic acid):test proved crude extracts Angelica sinensis (AS) exhibited antioxidant activities in a concentration-dependent manner,inhibitory effect on FeCl2-ascorbic acid induced lipid peroxidation in rat liver homogenate in vitro proved,comparative study processed between Angelica sinensis (AS), Lycium barbarum (LB) and Poria cocos (PC) showed that LB is the strongest,and followed by AS then PC.Lycium barbarum extract possessed the strongest inhibition on malondialdehyde formation in rat liver homogenate, and superoxide anion scavenging and anti-superoxide formation activities(18.).
 

 Antioxidant effects on ECV304 cells and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases prevention:clinical test proved a combination extracts of Ligusticum chuanxiong and Angelica sinensis (ELCAS) could protected ECV304 cells(human umbilical vein endothelial cells) against hydrogen peroxide damage by enhancing the antioxidative ability, activating ERK and eNOS signaling pathway,and decrement of ROS(reactive oxygen species) may be associated with increased activities of superoxide dismutase(SOD), catalase(CAT) and glutathione peroxidase(GPX).These two can be used in preventing both cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases(20.).
 

 Antioxidant effects for injury with H2O2 or UV irradiation,H2O2 induced cytotoxicity,applicable potentiality for anti-AIDS and neurodegenerative disorders treatment:Angelica polysaccharide sulphate(APS) got tested and applied to oxidative injury with H2O2 or UV irradiation,APS significantly increased cell viabilty, GSH and SOD activity at concentration 0. 3 -100microg/ml,while decreased MDA in a dose dependent manner( P < 0. 05 or P < 0.01),this anti-oxidative effect may be considered as one composition of its anti-AIDS mechanisms(28.).Other studies focused on H2O2-induced cytotoxicity proved that Z-ligustilide releases protective effect against H(2)O(2)-induced cytotoxicity, at least partly through improving cellular antioxidant defense and inhibiting the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway,and can be useful in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders in which oxidative stress and apoptosis are mainly implicated(37.).Other studies showed one of Angelica sinensis polysaccharide fractions(APFs) shows antioxidative effects on H2O2 induced cell viability decrease,lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage and malondialdehyde (MDA) formation,reduced H2O2-caused decline of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione (GSH) depletion,suggestive optimal dosage of APFs (100 microg/ml) protect macrophages by inhibiting the release of excess NO and reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by high concentrations of H2O2(39.).

 Antioxidant effects on tertbutylhydroperoxide (t-BHP) oxidation:Angelica sinensis polysaccharide fractions (APFs) evaluated in tertbutylhydroperoxide (t-BHP) induced mouse peritoneal macrophages experiment,result proved 10 microg/ml concentration could significantly enhance t-BHP-decreased cell survival, intracellular glutathione (GSH) content and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity,also inhibited t-BHP-increased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage and malondialdehyde (MDA) formation(42.).

 Antioxidant on Abeta-induced oxidation:Abeta is a pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease,Abeta-induced(beta-amyloid peptide) oxidative damage (ROS, TBARS, and GSH contents) test find that Angelica sinensis root alcohol extract protected cell viability against Abeta-induced oxidative damage and rescued the DeltaPsim levels in a dose-dependent manner,recovered the enlarged mitochondria mass.AS extract possessed activity to prevent the neurotoxicity induced by Abeta-associated oxidative stress got identified, implying that AS's potentiality in the prevention of Alzheimer's diseases(44.).

 Antioxidant effect on Oxidative stress of ischemic neuronal injury related:Oxidative stress is involved in the pathogenesis of ischemic neuronal injury,test on FBD aqueous extract(a combination of Poria cocos,Atractylodes macrocephala and Angelica sinensis) treatment of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion processed and show distinct antioxidant phytotherapy to rescue neuronal oxidative stress, through blocking LPO, restoring endogenous antioxidant system,but not scavenging free radicals(55.).

 Antioxidant Comparative Property of Traditional Herbs:recent study investigated antioxidant activities of six herbs ((Paeonia lactiflora (PL), Atractylodes macrocephala (AMA), Angelica sinensis (AS), Astragalus membranaceus (AME), Glycyrrhiza uralensis (GU) and Rheum officinale (RO)), which historically combined into eight traditional Chinese herb pairs(AME-AS, AME-AMA, AME-RO, AME-GU, AME-PL, PL-AS, PL-AMA and PL-GU) in vitro by assessing the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazine (DPPH)-radical scavenging abilities,result shows interesting phenomena,one of them is significantly larger scavenging capacity got than expected from the theoretical sum of those of the respective constituent herbs,more other result showed that AME-GU, AME-PL and AME-AMA pairs not only show significant synergistic effect in the DPPH scavenging,also demonstrated similar results in hydroxyl radical and superoxide radical anion scavenging assays,Interestingly, the AME-AMA combination had a significantly higher superoxide anion (0.2 g/ml) and hydroxyl radical scavenging ability than the AME or AMA,flavonoids are likely responsible for the synergistic effects(65.).

 Angiogenesis effects and wound healing:Angiogenesis plays an important role in a wide range of physiological processes such as wound healing and fetal development,investigation on the angiogenic effects of AS extract on human endothelial cells (HUVEC) in vitro and zebrafish in vivo showed that Angelica sinensis extract really promote angiogenesis and that the angiogenic effects involve p38 and JNK 1/2 phosphorylation(27.).

 Anti-inflammatory Effect:The Dang Gui whole herb extract is anti-inflammatory, anti-spasm and analgesic.The chemical components ferulic acid, ligustilide, butylidenephthalide and butylphthalide also have this same effect.Experimental study of mice urate crystal-induced inflammation showed that a combination extracts of Acanthopanax senticosus,Angelica sinensis and Scutellaria baicalensis(A. senticosus:A. sinensis:S. baicalensis mixed in a ratio of 5:4:1 by weight) at dosage 100 mg/kg body weight,diminished MSU crystal-induced inflammation by reducing neutrophil recruitment and expression of pro-inflammatory factors and increasing the level of the potentially anti-inflammatory PGD2,possibilities treatment of inflammatory arthropathies got confirmed and elevation of PGD2 levels as a novel mechanism for an anti-inflammatory agent suggested.(32.).Angelica sinensis polysaccharides(AS) has been found release prevention of oxidative stress which occur during neutrophil infiltration in the pathological process of Ulcerative colitis,test of rats with acute UC(Ulcerative colitis) induced by 2,4-dinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (DNBS) processed and proved this,suggest it can be good to decrease both oxidative stress and GSH depletion which are highly associated with the pathological mechanism of UC(Ulcerative colitis)(52.).Recent anti-inflammatory test of Drynaria baronii, Angelica sinensis and Cornus officinalis Sieb. et Zucc (referred to as DB, AS, CO, respectively),result shows that DB, AS and CO inhibited nitric oxide (NO) production by lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated mouse macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells,DB and CO effectively inhibited the PGE(2) production by LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells,DB, AS and CO inhibited cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression at both protein and mRNA levels,further substantiate the anti-inflammatory potency of DB, AS and CO(67.).

 Anti-inflammatory and Anti-TB:in vitro anti-TB activity properties of Angelica sinensis got investigated,polyynes compounds were tested against two pathogenic strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (H37Rv and Erdman) in vitro in a microplate Alamar Blue assay (MABA),polyynes suggested to be the lead compounds for anti-TB(48.).

 Chemoprotective Effect:Dang Gui has a chemoprotective and radioprotective effect and also has antioxidant and regenerative effects.

 Central Nervous System Effect:The Dang Gui whole-herb extract and essential oil may have an effect on the central nervous system by providing a calming effect.

 Hepatic Protective Effect:Sodium Ferulate, a bioactive ingredient of Dang Gui has a hepatic protective effect by preventing the depletion of liver glycogen and glutathione.Chronic cirrhotic patients with portal hypertention received Dang Gui injection and improvement was seen in arterial and venous pressure.
 

 Antifibrotic effects,against Pulmonary fibrosis and Lung,Kidney protection:animal experiment showed Angelica Sinensis inhibits the progress of radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis,Possibly by down-regulating the expression of the proinflammatory cytokine Tgfb1,which suggest that Angelica sinensis maybe useful in preventing and/or treating radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis in the clinic.(30.),antifibrotic effects in other organs such as kidney got proved by some other test,the result of DBT(Astragalus and Angelica root) released anti-fibrosis effects in rats with chronic kidney diseases and improvement of renal blood flow in rats with acute ischemic renal injury,result showed that severe interstitial mononuclear cells infiltration,tubular atrophy,renal fibrosis and collagen expression in kidneys of UUO group reduced by DBT administration(dosage at 14 g/kg/d,for 3, 7 and 10 days.),the mechanism might be associated with enhancing NO(nitric oxide) production via eNOS activation and scavenging ROS(reactive oxygen species), and in turn might improve ischemic microvasculature and attenuate interstitial fibrosis. (34.).Some recent test investigated Angelica sinensis(and Astragalus membranaceus) on renal disease disclosed they can retard the progress of renal microvasular lesions which aggravate the progress of glomerular sclerosis and tubulo-interstitial fibrosis in chronic kidney diseases,mechanism mainly reply on increasing local renal blood flow to lessen the hypoxic renal injury, promoting the recovery of renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate after ischemia-reperfusion,modulating the imbalance of vaso-activators such as nitric oxide and angiotensin,increasing the expression of vascular epithelial growth factor etc(58.).

 Estrogenic activity:standardized ethanol extract exhibited a stimulation of the uterine histoarchitecture,significant cornification in the vaginal epithelium and reduction of serum LH concentration,rats test proved significant modification of the vaginal smear in 67% of treated rats with this extracts,showing the estrogenic nature.(9.)

 Vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation inhibition:clinical test on mice showed that extracts from Ligusticum chuanxiong (LC) and Angelica sinensis (AS) significantly inhibited proliferation and protein synthesis of VSMC(vascular smooth muscle cell) in a dose and time dependent manner,significantly increased nitric oxide production of VSMC.Markedly inhibited VSMC proliferation by arresting G(1) to S progression, which may be associated with nitric oxide production.(16.)

 Brain protection,neuroprotective,gainst cognitive dysfunction and brain damage:experimental test on Z-Ligustilide showed significantly prevented chronically hypoperfused cognitive deficits and brain damage at least partly through an antioxidant effect and improved cholinergic activity,LIG oral dosage for mice is 10 or 40 mg/kg/day,40 days,therapeutic potential in treating vascular dementia and cerebrovascular insufficiency of Z-Ligustilide got attentioned(38.).Other studies identified Angelica sinensis root alcohol extract(at concentration 25 to 200 microg/ml) can prevent neurotoxicity induced by abeta-associated oxidative stress and thus can be a prevention of Alzheimer's diseases(44.).Some study test on FBD(a combination of Poria cocos,Atractylodes macrocephala,Angelica sinensis) showed brain ischemia/reperfusion injury prevented,dosage at 150 mg/kg(FBD aqueous extract)or 37.5 mg/kg(FBD supercritical carbon dioxide extract)(46.).Recent study focused on Ferulic acid(at dosage 80 to 100 mg/kg ) from AS(Angelica sinensis) and LC(Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort) showed good protection result for reducing cerebral infarct area and neurological deficit-score which partially attributed to the inhibition of superoxide radicals, ICAM-1 and NF-kappaB expression,make a further prove for neuroprotection and treatment of stroke related brain problems with these herbs(57.).

Mode of Action:

 Dong Quai is classified as a tonic herb in China and as such would be rarely used in acute stages of a disease. Even an acute condition as simple as a common cold, normally it would be suggested to correct the acute state first, before initiating its use. As a tonic, it is usually combined with other botanicals and is rarely used alone. Often the center of gravity of the other ingredients will direct the action Dong Quai. Dong Quai`s tonic action is most seen in it's ability to 'tone the Blood'. This TCM concept is different than western medicine might initially think, being much more than anemia, it can be caused by psychological issue as well as nutrient or physiological issues. Deficient Blood is suggested by a pallid face and lips, dizziness, vertigo, diminished vision, lethargy, palpitations, dry skin, menstrual irregularities, pale tongue and a fine pulse. This is the most commonly used herb in the Orient to regulate menstrual function and to tone the female organs. It can also be used by males to tone their blood and is very efficient in teenage acne.

 Dong Quai has been shown to both contract and relax uterine muscles in anesthetized dogs, cats and rabbits. The contractive and excitatory ingredient is felt to be a water- and alcohol-soluble, non-volatile oil component, where as the relaxing, inhibitory component is considered to be a volatile oil with high boiling point. This is thought to be the mechanism underlying Dong Quai`s effectiveness in dysmenorrhea, not an estrogenic effect. Dong Quai is also though to increase sexual activity in female animals, but doesn`t have reliable clinical support.

 Dong Quai's effect on body metabolism and endocrine function has been demonstrated by mixing 5% raw root to the diet of mice for four weeks. Body metabolism was enhanced, oxygen utilization increased in the liver, as well as glutamic acid and cysteine oxidation enhancement. Dong quai also protected the liver of laboratory mice against carbon tetrachloride toxicity.

 This herb has shown to act against Vitamin E deficiency, which may related to its fetus-stabilizing effect, and prevention of testicular disease. Dong Quai root, especially alcohol extract of the root, has a quinidine-type effect on animal hearts, an inhibitory effect on frog hearts, and depresses tachycardia. Dong Quai can prevent experimental coronary atherosclerosis, and prevents lipid deposits in arteries. The blood pressure lowering activity in anesthetized animals is thought to be due the release of neurotransmitters, which excite acetylcholine and histamine receptors, causing dilatation of peripheral blood vessels. Aqueous extracts have shown to inhibit both writhing and capillary permeability, along with a strong inhibition of platelet aggregation (by inhibiting 5HT) and inhibition of thromboxane formation, suggests an anti-inflammatory action.

 Anti-tumor action of Dong Quai has been observed in several studies. It has been shown to increase lymphocyte activity to form mature antibodies, while increasing IL-2 formation. It has been observed to increase B cells' capability to respond to T helper cells and stimulate T lymphocyte production.

 A decoction of Dong Quai root has been shown to inhibit many bacteria: Gram negative bacteria such as Bacillus dysenteriae, B. typhi, B. comma, B. paratyphi and Escherichia coli as well as Gram positive bacteria, such as Streptococcus, Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Shigella. Polysaccharides in Dong Quai have shown to be both stimulating and modulating.

 A mild sedative effect by the volatile oil inhibits brain activity, and smooth muscles in intestine and bladder. One of the constituents, ligustilide, has shown strong anti-asthmatic activity in vivo as well as anti-spasmodic action in the GI tract. Dong Quai is heavily used in China, injected into acupuncture points to inhibit pain. Dong Quai has been shown to have a diuretic effect.
 

Folklore:

 This herb has been used very extensively in China, especially after delivery of a child as a postparturition tonic. Dong quai was also used, to regulate menses, as a blood tonic, as a mild sedative, and for abdominal pains. It has also been used for angina, chills, diabetes, hypertension, headaches, nephritis and lumbago. It is first found in Chinese literature in Collection of Commentaries on the Materia Medica (500 B.C.).

Angelica Root(DangGui) as good Blood tonic and female tonic:

 Angelica root is famous in China as a tonic, Chinese angelica is taken for "deficient blood" conditions, anemia, and for the symptoms of anemia due to blood loss -a pale complexion, palpitations, and lowered vitality.
 Women's health Chinese angelica regulates the menstrual cycle, relieves menstrual pains and cramps, and is an ideal tonic for women with heavy menstrual bleeding who risk becoming anemic. However, as it stimulates menstrual bleeding, other tonic herbs, such as nettle, are best taken during menstruation if the flow is heavy. It is also a uterine tonic and helps infertility. Circulation Chinese angelica is a "warming" herb, improving the circulation to the abdomen, and to the hands and feet. It strengthens the digestion and is also useful in the treatment of abscesses and boils.
 Chinese angelica is the best Chinese tonic herb for women, although it can also be used for men, and is the most highly valued blood tonic in the East. Chinese angelica regulates hormones, menstruation, brings on delayed or suppressed periods, relieves menstrual cramps, and can be used during the menopause. Eaten raw or taken as a tincture, Chinese angelica relaxes the uterus, used with water it tones the uterus and stimulates uterine contractions, increasing circulation and relieving congestion in the pelvic area. It is best not to take it during pregnancy.

Mechanism of Angelica Function as good Blood tonic and female tonic:

 Chinese angelica's constituents make it especially useful for treating women's reproductive problems. Its combined action as a circulatory and blood tonic mean it is useful in menopause for symptoms including aches, and pains, as well as helping with irregular and absent periods. Its antispasmodic actions also help with painful periods. In China it is used to nourish the blood and prevent anemia, blurred vision, tinnitus, and palpitations. Like garden angelica it is a warming, carminative herb for the digestion and has been found to help where there is long-term liver damage or infection. Chinese indications are particularly in cases of constipation. The rhizome has an antibiotic quality, and it is used in cases where there are sores and abscesses. The Chinese properties are that of sweet, acrid, bitter, and warm.
 

Angelica Root stabilize blood sugar levels:

 Dang gui stabilizes blood sugar levels and enhances the function of the immune system. Chinese angelica has bactericidal, antiviral and antifungal properties and is a wonderful remedy for a whole range of infections, including colds and flu. Chinese angelica is a valuable blood purifier and a moistening remedy to relieve constipation. Chinese angelica has rejuvenative properties and helps to relieve arthritis and rheumatic pain. As a tonic Chinese angelica is recommended in convalescence, and to speed recovery and increase energy after childbirth.
 When cooked, dang gui is stimulating, antispasmodic and warming. Dang gui improves the circulation, speeds tissue repair, lowers blood pressure, slows the pulse, helps prevent atherosclerosis and blood clots and relaxes the muscles of the heart. Chinese angelica also acts as a sedative. Chinese angelica is nourishing, containing vitamins, and aids the absorption and utilization of vitamin E. Chinese angelica is used for anemia and angina.
 Research:Gynecology - Research in China from the 1970s has shown that the herb regulates uterine contractions, which may explain its benefit for menstrual pain.
 Whole plant - Research shows that the whole plant, including the rhizome, strengthens liver function. The whole rhizome has an antibiotic effect.
 

Amenorrhea (lack of menstrual period):

 There is limited poor-quality study of Dong Quai as a part of herbal combinations given for amenorrhea. It is unclear from laboratory studies if Dong Quai has the same effects on the body as estrogens or blocks the activity of estrogens (or neither), and how this might affect women with amenorrhea. One human study suggests that Dong Quai may not have significant short-term estrogen-like effects on the body. Additional research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be drawn.

Arthritis:

 Dong Quai is traditionally used in the treatment of arthritis. However, there is insufficient reliable human evidence to recommend the use of Dong Quai alone or in combination with other herbs for osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation):

 There are unclear results of preliminary, poor-quality human research of Dong Quai in combination with other herbs for dysmenorrhea. Animal studies report conflicting results, with either relaxing or stimulatory effects of Dong Quai on the uterus. Reliable scientific evidence for Dong Quai alone in humans with dysmenorrhea is not available.It is traditionally believed that therapy should begin on day 14 of the cycle and continue until menstruation has ceased.

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP):

 A poor-quality study reports benefits of Dong Quai in patients diagnosed with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). However, these patients were not compared to individuals who were not receiving Dong Quai, and therefore the results can only be considered preliminary.

Menstrual migraine headache:

 One small study reports a reduced average number of menstrual-associated migraine attacks during prophylactic treatment with a daily combination of 60mg soy isoflavones, 100mg Dong Quai, and 50mg black cohosh, with each component standardized to its primary alkaloid. Patients received study medication for 24 weeks. The effects of Dong Quai alone for this condition are not clear, and further research is necessary before a clear conclusion can be reached.

Pulmonary hypertension:

 A preliminary controlled trial reports that the combination of Dong Quai with the drug nifedipine may be better than either agent alone to improve pulmonary hypertension in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A second study of Dong Quai alone also noted benefits. These studies were small and not well reported, and cannot be considered conclusive. It remains unclear if Dong Quai is beneficial for other causes of pulmonary hypertension. Further research is needed before a recommendation can be made.
 

Menopausal symptoms:

 Dong Quai is used in traditional Chinese formulas for menopausal symptoms. It has been proposed that Dong Quai may contain "phytoestrogens" (chemicals with estrogen-like effects in the body). However, it remains unclear from laboratory studies if Dong Quai has the same effects on the body as estrogens, blocks the activity of estrogens, or has no significant effect on estrogens.A well-designed 24-week human trial compared the effects of Dong Quai to a placebo in 71 women with menopausal symptoms. This study found no differences in hot flashes or in the Kupperman Index (a commonly used measure of menopausal symptoms) between Dong Quai and placebo groups. No changes occurred in blood estrogen levels, thickness of the uterus lining, or vaginal dryness. This study suggests that Dong Quai may not have short-term estrogen-like effects on the body. However, there may have been too few patients enrolled in the study to accurately measure effects. In addition, the Dong Quai extract used, prepared by East Earth herbs, Inc. (4.5 milligrams per day, standardized to 0.5 milligrams per kilogram of ferulic acid), may not be manufactured in the same way as other Dong Quai products, and may yield different results. Additional research is necessary before a strong recommendation can be made.

For any syndromes of blood deficiency:

it is often used with Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata, Radix Paeoniae Alba and Rhizome Ligustici Chuanxiong to nourish the blood, as in Decoction of Four Ingredients (Siwu Tang).

Protect bone marrow and gastrointestinal tissues:cytoprotective and against the cytotoxicity

Clinical research on mice proved Angelica sinensis polysaccharides(AP) is a cytoprotective agent which can protect against the cytotoxicity of CY(Cyclophosphamide) on hematopoietic and gastrointestinal tissues when the polysaccharide is co-administered with CY(Cyclophosphamide) in cancer patients during treatment regimen.Cyclophosphamide (CY) is a cytostatic agent that produces systemic toxicity especially on cells with high proliferative capacity.AP has an effect on CY-induced cytotoxicity on bone marrow and gastrointestinal tract.(12.)

For menoxenia, menorrhalyia and amenorrhea in the type of blood deficiency:

it is used together with Radix Rehmanniae Praeparata, Radix Polygoni Multiflori, Radix Paeoniae Alba, Caulis Spatholobi, etc., to replenish blood and regulate menstruation; for those in the type of blood stasis, it is used with herbs for promoting blood circulation and for regulation menstruation, such as Rhizoma Ligustici Chuanxiong, Semen Persicae, Flos Carthami, etc.; and for those in the type of deficiency-cold, it is used with herbs for warming channels and dispelling cold pathogen, such as Folium Artemisiae Argyi, Ramulus Cinnamo mi, Fructus Euodiae, etc.

For chest and abdominal pain due to blood stasis:

it is often used with herbs for resolving blood stasis to relieve pain, such as Resina Olibani, Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae; for obstruction of the heart channel manifested as oppressive pain in the chest, it can be used with herbs for promoting blood circulation and qi flow to relieve pain, such as Flos Carthami, Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae, Rhizoma Ligustici Chuanxiong, Lignum Dalbergiae Odoriferae, etc.

For traumatic ecchymoma and pain, and for sores, carbuncles swelling:

it is often used with herbs for promoting blood circulation and tissue regeneration and relieving pain, such as Resina Olibani, Myrrha. Squama Manitis, etc.
Besides, it is also used with Radix Paeoniae Alba, Fructus Cannabis, etc., to treat constipation due to blood deficiency and dryness in the bowel.

Dosage and Administration:

 Although dosing for dong quai varies considerably, a common recommendation for its use to treat menstrual problems is 3000 mg to 4000 mg (3 grams to 4 grams) per day in three divided doses. Note that dong quai is usually combined with other herbals for general use. It is rarely taken by itself. If you choose to take a product containing it, follow the directions on the package of the product you purchase.

Standardization :

 There are no standard or well-studied doses of Dong Quai, and many different doses are used traditionally. Some products standardize Dong Quai to 0.8-1.1% ligustilide per dose, or to 0.5 milligrams per kilogram of ferulic acid. One gram of 100% Dong Quai extract has been reported to be equivalent to approximately 4 grams of raw Dong Quai root. Safety and effectiveness are not established for any dose.
 In Asia, Dong Quai is primarily used medicinally, while in the United States and Europe it is more common as a flavoring agent in food products (liqueurs, vermouths, ice cream, candy, gelatins, puddings). A related species, Angelica acutiloba , appears to have similar properties to Dong Quai in laboratory experiments.

Adults (18 years and older):

 Root preparations:
 Dried herb:3 - 30 gms
 Combination preparations:Dong Quai is used in numerous herbal combinations, and various doses have been used traditionally and in Chinese research. Because of this variation and lack of high-quality studies, no specific recommendations can be made. Safety and effectiveness are not established for most herbal combinations, and the amounts of Dong Quai present from batch to batch may vary.
 Powdered/dried root/root slices:1 to 5 grams of root taken by mouth 3 times daily has been used traditionally, although more common doses range from 1 to 2 grams taken 3 times daily. Weight-based dosing as been proposed, although there is no scientific evidence to support such dosing.
 Fluid extract/tincture:3 to 8 milliliters of a fluid extract(1:2) or 10 to 40 drops of tincture (1:5 in 50-70% alcohol) taken by mouth three times daily have been used.
 Decoction:1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of cut root in 1 cup hot water, boiled and simmered for 2 to 5 minutes, then removed from heat and left to stand for 5 to 10 minutes. 1 to 3 cups have been consumed by mouth daily.
 Intravenous:Safety of intravenous use is not established, although it has been reported in research.
 Topical (on the skin):Ten to 15 drops of diluted essential oil has been used for skin irritation (anecdotal).
 Leaf preparations (less common than root preparations):
 Dried leaf:2 to 5 grams taken by mouth three times daily have been used.
 Leaf tincture (1:5 in 45% alcohol):2 to 5 milliliters taken three times daily have been used.
 Leaf fluid extract (1:1):0.5 to 2 milliliters taken 3 times daily have been used.

Children (younger than 18 years):

There is not enough scientific data to recommend Dong Quai for use in children, and it is not recommended due to potential side effects.

Safety:

Allergies:

People with known allergy/hypersensitivity to Angelica radix or members of the Aplaceae / Umbelliferae family (anise, caraway, carrot, celery, dill, parsley) should avoid Dong Quai. Skin rash has been reported with the use of Dong Quai, although it is not clear if this was an allergic response. An asthma response has occurred after breathing in Dong Quai powder.

Toxicity and Contraindications:

 Side effects of this herb are rare, use caution in "Cold deficiency" diarrhea (as determined by traditional Chinese medical diagnosis). There have been a very small number of people exhibit hypersensitivity to the herb, which may lead to excessive bleeding and occasionally fevers. There have been noted some cases of photosensitivity and a mild laxative effect in others. Some references are concerned about toxicity because of the safrol content of Dong Quai, but with such a substantial amount of usage across centuries of Chinese history, there would appear to be little need for concern when the herb is consumed within the therapeutic range.
 

Safety and Acute toxicity:

Acute toxicity(LD50):

 LD50-Lethal dose,50 percent kill.Mice.Intravenous.80-100g/kg (IV/herb solution)
 LD50-Lethal dose,50 percent kill.Mice.Subcutaneous.80-100g/kg(hypodermic injection/volatile oil)
 LD50-Lethal dose,50 percent kill.Mice.Oral.960g/kg (Oral/volatile oil).
 Dang Gui's toxicity is low. For intravenous injection in mice LD 50 value is 80-100g/kg. For subcutaneous injection and stomach administration of volatile oil, the LD50 values are 298g/kg and 960g/kg, respectively.
 Reference:Chen Ke Ji, et al. Research on Blood Stasis and Its Treatment. Shanghai: Science and Technology Press; 1990. Chen Yong Yi, et al. Guangxi Journal of Health. 1973;(6):47.
 The Median Lethal Dose (LD50) of Dang Gui in mice is 100g/Kg administered by injection. Therefore, Dang Gui has been shown to have very low toxicity.
 Intravenous administration of the essential oil of Dang Gui extract in doses of 1 ml/Kg to animals can cause a drop in blood pressure and depression of respiration.
 An alcohol based extract of the herb is much more toxic; at a dose of 0.06 to 0.2 ml/Kg it can cause an animal to die due to respiratory arrest.
 Unfavorable effects include excessive bleeding and occasionally, fever. These effects are both believed to be due to a reaction to the herb. Also, diarrhea may occur occasionally.

Longterm Use:

 The longterm use of Dang Gui at a dose of 6g/Kg indicated no irregularity in physical activities, food intake, body weight, urine inspection or hematological examination. A slight increase in cytochrome P450 (involved in oxidative metabolism and and detoxification of xenobiotics) was evident.

Side Effects and Warnings:

 Dong quai is generally considered to be of extremely low toxicity; It may cause some fair-skinned persons to become more sensitive to sunlight. Persons using it on a regular basis should limit prolonged exposure to the sun or other sources of ultraviolet radiation. Dong quai is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.
 Although Dong Quai is accepted as being safe as a food additive in the United States and Europe, its safety in medicinal doses is not known. There are no reliable long-term studies of side effects. Most precautions are based on theory, laboratory research, tradition, or isolated case reports.
 Components of Dong Quai may increase the risk of bleeding due to anticoagulant and anti-platelet effects, although there are no reliable reports of clinically significant bleeding in humans. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding. Dosing adjustments may be necessary. Discontinue use prior to surgical or major dental or procedures.
 It remains unclear if Dong Quai has the same effects on the body as estrogens, blocks the activity of estrogens, or has no significant hormonal effects. Results of animal studies are conflicting, and one human trial found no short-term estrogen-like effects on the body (including no hormonal changes or increases in uterus wall thickness after 24-weeks of treatment). It remains unclear if Dong Quai is safe in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, or endometriosis. It is not known if Dong Quai possesses the beneficial effects that estrogen is believed to have on bone mass, or the potential harmful effects such as increased risk of stroke or hormone-sensitive cancers.
 Increased sun sensitivity with a risk of severe skin reactions (photosensitivity) may occur due to chemicals in Dong Quai (furocoumarins, psoralen and bergapten). Prolonged exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light should be avoided while taking Dong Quai. It is reported that steam-distilled oils of the root and seed may not possess the phototoxic chemicals.
 Safrole, a volatile oil in Dong Quai, may be carcinogenic (cancer-causing). Long-term use should therefore be avoided, and suntan lotions that contain Dong Quai often limit the amount of Dong Quai to less than one percent.
 Dong Quai has traditionally been associated with gastrointestinal symptoms (particularly with prolonged use), including laxative effects/diarrhea, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, burping, or bloating. Published literature is limited in this area.
 Dong Quai preparations may contain high levels of sucrose, and should be used cautiously by patients with diabetes or glucose intolerance.
 Various other side effects have rarely been reported with Dong Quai taken alone or in combination with other herbs. However, side effects have not been evaluated in well-designed studies. These include: headache, lightheadedness/dizziness, sedation/drowsiness, insomnia, irritability, fever, sweating, weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, blood pressure abnormalities, wheezing/asthma, hot flashes, worsening premenstrual symptoms, reduced menstrual flow, increased male breast size (gynecomastia), kidney problems (nephrosis), or skin rash.
 The safety of Dong Quai injected into the skin, muscles, or veins is not known and should be avoided. Essential oil of Dong Quai injected under the skin of dogs has stopped breathing.

Precautions:

Very little information is available on how dong quai might affect an infant or a small child. Therefore, its use is not recommended during breast-feeding or early childhood.

Major Side Effects:

Several of the chemicals found in dong quai have been shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals when given in very large amounts for long periods of time. No evidence from human studies documents this risk, however.

Less Severe Side Effects:

Dong quai can make unprotected skin more sensitive to sunlight or artificial light used in tanning parlors. If you use dong quai, be sure to use sunscreen, as well.
 One case has been reported of temporary breast enlargement in a man who took a combination product that contained dong quai. The exact cause of this breast enlargement is not known, but it is thought to have been due to contamination in the product being used.

Risks:

 Pregnant women should not take dong quai due to its unpredictable effects on uterine muscle tone. Men with prostate cancer and women with endometriosis, breast cancer, or cancers of the uterus or ovaries should also avoid taking it. Small children and women who are breast-feeding are also advised not to take dong quai.
 Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
 Dong Quai is not recommended during pregnancy due to possible hormonal and anticoagulant/anti-platelet properties. Animal research has noted conflicting effects on the uterus, with reports of both stimulation and relaxation. There is a published report of miscarriage in a woman taking Dong Quai, although it is not clear that Dong Quai was the cause. Dong Quai is traditionally viewed as increasing the risk of abortion. There is insufficient evidence regarding the safety of Dong Quai during breastfeeding.

Interactions with Drugs:

 Dong Quai may increase the risk of bleeding due to anticoagulant and anti-platelet effects, and may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants ("blood thinners") such as warfarin (Coumadin?) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve). There is a report of the effects of warfarin (Coumadin?) being increased in a woman taking 565 milligrams of Dong Quai once or twice daily, as measured by 2.5-fold increases in values of blood tests for prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR).
 It remains unclear if Dong Quai has the same effects on the body as estrogens, blocks the activity of estrogens, or has no significant hormonal effects. It is not known if taking Dong Quai increases or decreases the effects of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy such as Premarin? which contain estrogen, or on the anti-tumor effects of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) such as tamoxifen.
 Chemicals in Dong Quai may cause increased sun sensitivity with a risk of severe skin reactions (photosensitivity), and Dong Quai should be avoided with other drugs that cause photosensitivity, such as tretinoin (Retin-A, Renova), and some types of anti-depressants, cancer drugs, antibiotics, or anti-psychotic medications. Patients taking medications should check with their doctor or pharmacist before starting Dong Quai.
 Based on laboratory research, Dong Quai may increase the effects of drugs that affect heart rhythms, such as digoxin, beta-blockers such as metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol), calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine (Procardia) or other anti-arrhythmic drugs. Animal studies and one human report have noted reduced blood pressure after administration of Dong Quai, and Dong Quai should be used cautiously in individuals taking blood pressure-lowering medications.

 Interaction with CYP substrates:clinical research proved that Dong Quai water and ethanol extracts proved significant effects on CYP isoforms activities,dosage at 3 g (dry herbal material)/kg increased the microsome protein contents and decreased the total CYP levels,water extract strongly increased the activities of CYP2D6 and 3A,Thus caution should be paid to possible drug interactions of Dong Quai and CYP substrates(other 2 herbs also got tested accordingly:Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (CX) and Rheum palmatum L. (DH)).As herb-drug interactions,especially cytochrome P450 (CYP)-mediated interactions,cause an enhancement or attenuation in the efficacy of co-administered drugs.(6.)

Interactions with Herbs:

 In theory, due to anticoagulant and anti-platelet effects, components of Dong Quai may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the use of Ginkgo biloba , and fewer cases with garlic and saw palmetto. Numerous other agents may theoretically increase the risk of bleeding, although this has not been proven in most cases. Some examples include: alfalfa, American ginseng, angelica, anise, Arnica montana , asafetida, aspen bark, bilberry, birch, black cohosh, bladderwrack, bogbean, boldo, borage seed oil, bromelain, capsicum, cat's claw, celery, chamomile, chaparral, clove, coleus, cordyceps, danshen, devil's claw, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid, found in deep-sea fish oils), evening primrose oil, fenugreek, feverfew, fish oil, flaxseed/flax powder (not a concern with flaxseed oil), ginger, grapefruit juice, grapeseed, green tea, guggul, gymnestra, horse chestnut,
   horseradish, licorice root, lovage root, male fern, meadowsweet, nordihydroguairetic acid (NDGA), onion, papain, Panax ginseng, parsley, passionflower, poplar, prickly Ash, propolis, quassia, red clover, reishi, Siberian ginseng, sweet clover, rue, sweet birch, sweet clover, turmeric , vitamin E, white willow, wild carrot, wild lettuce, willow, wintergreen, and yucca.
 It remains unclear if Dong Quai has the same effects on the body as estrogens, blocks the activity of estrogens, or has no significant hormonal effects. The effects of agents believed to have estrogen-like properties may be altered, such as alfalfa, black cohosh, bloodroot, burdock, hops, kudzu, licorice, pomegranate, red clover, soy, thyme, white horehound, and yucca.
 Chemicals in Dong Quai may cause increased sun sensitivity with a risk of severe skin reactions (photosensitivity), and Dong Quai should not be taken with products containing Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort) or capsaicin, which are also reported to cause photosensitivity.

Treatment of Angelica:

 Chinese Angelica, also called Dong Quai or Angelica Root, is used mainly to treat menstrual cramps, regulate menstrual periods, and lessen menopausal symptoms. Although it has been used for centuries in oriental medicine to treat a variety of disorders, there isn't any empirical evidence to substantiate its medicinal uses.

 In oriental medicine, chinese angelica root is frequently combined with other herbal products and used to treat a large variety of conditions including allergies, arthritis, asthma, or high blood pressure. Some studies have shown it has some ability to increase immune system function slightly, so it may in deed aid in relieving the symptoms associated with allergies.It has also been shown to exhibit mild anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it useful in treating arthritis, asthma, and other inflammatory conditions. One of the chemical substance present in angelic root has shown to promote relaxation of blood vessels, which might possibly help lower high blood pressure.
 Menopausal symptoms:some women report relief of symptoms such as hot flashes from this medicinal herb; however, clinical studies to date do not support the effectiveness of dong quai for menopausal symptoms.
 PMS:studies suggest that dong quai offers some value when used in conjunction with other Chinese herbs, particularly black cohosh, to treat PMS.
 Anemia:there are individual reports of successful treatment of anemia using dong quai, but to date no studies verify this.
 Heart disease:when used in combination with ginseng (Asian ginseng) and astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), dong quai decreased symptoms of chest pain and improved exercise tolerance in a small group of people with heart disease.
 Stroke:a series of reports published in China indicate that the use of dong quai just following a stroke demonstrated a decrease in the amount of brain damage; more research is needed.
 High blood pressure:reports indicate that dong quai may lower blood pressure in some individuals.
 Ulcers:animal studies suggest dong quai may soothe ulcers, but studies in people are needed before a definitive conclusion can be drawn.

More uses based on tradition or theory:

 The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

 Abdominal pain, abnormal fetal movement, abnormal heart rhythms, abscesses, age-related nerve damage, allergy, anemia, anorexia nervosa, antibacterial, anti-aging, antifungal, antiseptic, antispasmodic, anti-tumor, antiviral, anxiety, aortitis, asthma, atherosclerosis, back pain, bleeding hemorrhoids, bleomycin-induced lung damage, blood clots, blood flow disorders, blood purifier, blood stagnation, blood vessel disorders, blurred vision, body pain, boils, bone growth, breast enlargement, bronchitis, Buerger's disease, cancer, central nervous system disorders, cervicitis, chilblains, chronic hepatitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic rhinitis, cholagogue, cirrhosis, colchicine-induced learning impairment, congestive heart failure (CHF), constipation, cough, cramps, diabetes, digestion disorders, diuretic (increasing urination), dysentery, eczema, emotional instability, endometritis, expectorant, fatigue, fibrocystic breast disease, fibroids, flatulence (gas), fluid retention, gastric ulcer, glaucoma, hay fever, headache, heartburn, hematopoiesis (stimulation of blood cell production), hemolytic disease of the newborn, hernia, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, hormonal abnormalities, immune cytopenias, immune suppressant, infections, infertility, irritable bowel syndrome, joint pain, kidney disease, labor aid, laxative, leukorrhea (vaginal discharge), liver protection, lung disease, malaria, menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding), menstrual cramping, migraine, miscarriage prevention, morning sickness, muscle relaxant, dermatitis, osteoporosis, ovulation abnormalities, pain, pain from bruises, palpitations, pelvic congestion syndrome, pelvic inflammatory disease, peritoneal dialysis, pleurisy, post-partum weakness, pregnancy support, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), psoriasis, prolapsed uterus, pulmonary fibrosis, Raynaud's disease, reperfusion injury, respiratory tract infection, retained placenta, Rhesus (Rh) factor incompatibility, rheumatic diseases, sciatica, sedative, sepsis, shingles (herpes zoster), skin pigmentation disorders, skin ulcers, stiffness, stroke, stomach cancer, stress, tinnitus (ringing in the ear), toothache, vaginal atrophy, vitamin E deficiency, wound healing.

 Reference:

 1.Angelica Root and Its Benefit.

last edit date:23rd,Feb.2010.

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