Angelica Sinensis
General information
Chinese name: Dong Quai (当归 / 當歸)
Scientific names: Angelica Sinensis
Other name used: Dong Quai root, Female ginseng
The benefits of Chinese angelica at a glance:
- Boosts energy and vitality
- Alleviates premenstrual and menstrual issues
- Regulates menstrual cycle
- Improves respiratory and circulatory functions
- Fights digestive problems
Botany and Origins
Plant description
Chinese angelica (Angelica sinensis) is a plant of the Apiaceae family, The Apiaceae family is made up of plants characterized by their typical inflorescence, the umbel, hence their name Umbelliferae.
In Eastern Asia, the region it originates from, Chinese angelica is known as Dong Quai ("the one that brings back") and has been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties.
The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and each plant produces a root that is harvested at the end of autumn after 3 years of growth. After being pulled out, the root is cut and dried.
Geographic origins
Chinese angelica grows wild in the mountainous regions of China, between 2500 and 3000 m in altitude. It is most commonly found in the provinces of Gansu, Sichuan and Yunnan.
History
Chinese angelica has been used as a medicinal plant since ancient times. It is mentioned as a female tonic in the first Chinese book on herbal medicine, attributed to Emperor Shen Nong (around 2800 BC).
Widely used in Eastern Asia, Chinese angelica was not well known in Europe until the end of the 17th century. At that time, the root of Dong Quai was introduced under the name of Euménol. This decoction of Chinese angelica roots was very popular among the women of Louis XIV's court, who suffered from hot flashes.
It is considered the " plant of the woman ". It allows you to live your femininity serenely throughout your life.
Medicinal Properties of Chinese angelica
Category in Traditional Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, angelica is considered a tonic for the Spleen and Blood. It is used for its positive effect on circulatory disorders.
Part of the plant used in our infusions
We use the root of Angelica sinensis in our infusions.
Benefits of Chinese angelica
Boosts energy and vitality
In traditional Chinese medicine, Angelica Sinensis is a powerful female tonic. It is also known as " feminine ginseng ".
Improves respiratory and circulatory functions
The Chinese angelica is used for its positive effect on circulatory disorders. It contains over 70 different compounds, including essential oils such as Z-ligustilide. This is considered the main active ingredient in many Chinese medicinal plants.
Alleviate premenstrual and menstrual symptoms
The Chinese angelica has a positive effect on menstrual cramps, menstrual pain, and premenstrual syndrome. This plant is indeed capable of treating a multitude of gynecological disorders. In 2003, a report concluded that a mixture of Chinese angelica and chamomile had reduced hot flashes by 68% during the day and 74% at night.
Relieves menstrual pain
Chamomile contains flavonoids that have an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory action. It will therefore help to relieve pain and cramps related to periods.
Alleviates menopause-related effects
Dong Quai is rich in phytoestrogens. These natural substances are sometimes used as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) prescribed to menopausal women to reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Chinese angelica provides a natural response throughout a woman's life.
Find Chinese angelica in our teas
- Anti-hair loss
- Anti-breakage
- Promotes regrowth