Dong quai is a plant and the root is used as a natural medicine to treat several conditions. Dong quai has some effects of estrogen and it may affect other hormones in the body. Dong quai also contain coumarins, which give it blood thinning effects in the body. Individuals should check with their physicians before using this compound.

Don Quai

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

No

Side effects of Dong quai are skin irritation, sun sensitivity, bruising, and bleeding. It may increase the risk of cancer.

(note that different suppliers may suggest different doses):

• Premature ejaculation: A multi-ingredient topical cream, containing Dong quai, is applied to the penis one hour prior to sex and washed off immediately before sex.
• Menopausal symptoms: Take 4.5 grams of powder by mouth daily or 520 to 1560 mg by mouth three times daily with meals.
• Liquid extract: Take 1 ml by mouth three times a day.

Dong quai has blood thinning effects (slow blood clotting) and should not be taken with blood thinning medications like warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), and pain medications like ibuprofen (Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), and diclofenac (Voltaren). Such combinations increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. It should also not be combined with herbs that also slow blood clotting. Examples include angelica, clove, danshen, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, panax ginseng, poplar, red clover, and willow.

Dong quai may affect muscles of the uterus in pregnant women and possibly be harmful to the fetus. Dong quai should not be used in pregnant women.

It is not known whether Dong quai enters breast milk; however, it is best to avoid Dong quai in nursing mothers to prevent harm to the newborn.

What preparations of dong quai (Angelica sinensis)-oral are available?

Dong quai is available in capsules, liquid extract, and powder form. Concentration of Dong quai may vary from product-to-product due to multiple manufacturers producing various products.

How should I keep dong quai (Angelica sinensis)-oral stored?

Due to multiple manufacturers making different forms of Dong quai, storage requirements may vary based on individual manufacturer practices.