What is the most important information I should know about dong quai?
Avoid excessive or prolonged exposure to sunlight while taking dong quai. Dong
quai may increase the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective
clothing if sun exposure is unavoidable.
Do not take dong quai without first talking to your doctor if you have a bleeding or
blood clotting disorder; if you are taking a medicine to prevent
blood clots; or if you are taking
other medications, herbs,
antioxidants, or health supplements (these may also affect blood
clotting). Dong quai may affect the time it takes for your blood to clot.
Dong quai has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All
potential risks and/or advantages of dong quai may not be known. Additionally, there are no
regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances
where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or
other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize
the risk of contamination.
What is dong quai?
The use of dong quai in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts
accepted by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements,
consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with
a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and
coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous.
Dong quai is also known as Angelica polymorpha, tang-kuei, dang-gui, and Chinese
angelica.
Dong quai has been used in the treatment of menstrual cramps and irregular menses; as a
muscle relaxant; as a blood purifier; and in the management of high blood pressure, arthritis,
ulcers, anemia, constipation, and allergies.
Dong quai has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All
potential risks and/or advantages of dong quai may not be known. Additionally, there are no
regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances
where herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or
other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize
the risk of contamination.
Dong quai may also have uses other than those listed in this medication guide.