Angelica Sinensis Root
当归 · Dāngguī
Angelica sinensis
Family: Apiaceae · Part used: Root · Origin: Minxian, Gansu, China
Nature
Warm
Flavor
Sweet, pungent
Meridian
Heart, Liver, Spleen
Dang Gui — literally 'should return' — is the quintessential women's herb of Chinese medicine and the premier blood tonic. The Minxian growing region of Gansu produces roots with the highest oil content, prized for their aromatic sweetness. It both nourishes and invigorates the blood, earning its place in countless classical formulas.
🌿 Functions & Actions
- •Tonifies and moves the blood
- •Regulates menstruation and eases pain
- •Moistens the intestines and unblocks the bowels
- •Reduces swelling and expels pus
📋 Traditional Indications
- •Irregular or painful menstruation
- •Blood deficiency with pallor and dizziness
- •Constipation from blood dryness
- •Traumatic pain and bruising
- •Rheumatic joint pain
- •Post-partum recovery
📖 Usage & Dosage
6–12 g in decoction; simmer 30 minutes in soups. The tail (Gui Wei) moves blood more strongly than the head (Gui Tou).
🍵 Classic Recipes
Dang Gui Chicken Soup
Dang gui 15 g + black chicken + ginger, simmered 90 minutes. The classic postpartum and menstrual tonic.
Si Wu Tang (Four Substances)
Dang gui, shu di huang, bai shao, chuan xiong in equal parts — the foundational blood-tonifying decoction.
🔬 Modern Research
Ferulic acid and ligustilide, signature compounds of dang gui, are studied for circulatory support, uterine tonicity, and hematopoietic effects.
⚠️ Contraindications
Avoid during heavy menstrual bleeding, diarrhea with dampness, and pregnancy without professional guidance. May potentiate anticoagulants.
