7 Best Angelica Sinensis Benefits
Angelica sinensis, commonly known as dong quai, is a traditional Chinese herb renowned for its wide range of health benefits.
It is particularly valued for its ability to support women's health by alleviating menstrual cramps, regulating menstrual cycles, and reducing symptoms of menopause.
Additionally, dong quai is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can boost the immune system, improve circulation, and promote skin health.
Incorporating this plant into one's diet or supplement routine can lead to enhanced energy levels, better digestion, and overall improved well-being in daily life.
Below there's a list of the 7 best health benefits of angelica sinensis.
- 1. Reduces inflammation
- 2. Boosts immune
- 3. Relieves headache
- 4. Eases pain
- 5. Reduces stress
- 6. Eases menstrual
- 7. Eases cough
1. Reduces inflammation
Inflammatory conditions involve persistent swelling, pain, and tissue damage due to an overactive immune response.
Chronic inflammation is a common health issue that can affect various organs and systems in the body.
It is often caused by prolonged exposure to irritants, autoimmune reactions, or chronic infections.
This condition is commonly experienced by individuals with conditions like arthritis, digestive disorders, or metabolic syndromes.
Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai, has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation by modulating immune responses and supporting anti-inflammatory pathways in the body.
How this herb helps with reduces inflammation?
Angelica sinensis reduces inflammation because it contains bioactive constituents such as alkaloids and flavonoids.
These compounds work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes like cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Alkaloids, such as ligustilide and butylphthalide, have been shown to modulate immune responses and reduce oxidative stress. Flavonoids in angelica sinensis possess antioxidant properties that further support anti-inflammatory effects.
Together, these compounds contribute to the plant's traditional use in treating inflammatory conditions.
Scientific Research
According to the study, Angelica sinensis has a positive effect in reducing inflammation, as it showed notable anti-inflammatory effects and inhibited the production of various pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.
2. Boosts immune
Immune system weakness is a condition characterized by the body's reduced ability to defend against infections and diseases.
This health issue, also known as compromised immunity or immunodeficiency, occurs when the body's white blood cells and other immune mechanisms are not functioning optimally.
It can be caused by factors such as stress, poor nutrition, chronic illness, or certain medications.
Individuals with weakened immune systems include the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, and people undergoing treatment for cancer or autoimmune disorders.
Angelica sinensis, also known as Dong Quai, has been traditionally used to boost immune function by enhancing the body's natural defenses and supporting overall health.
How this herb helps with boosts immune?
Angelica sinensis boosts immune because it contains bioactive constituents such as alkaloids and flavonoids, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
These compounds help stimulate the production of white blood cells, enhancing the body's defense mechanisms. The presence of polysaccharides in the plant also contributes to its immunomodulatory effects. Additionally, flavonoids act as antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress that can weaken the immune system.
Overall, the combination of these bioactive compounds supports a stronger and more responsive immune system.
Scientific Research
According to "Yao xue xue bao = Acta pharmaceutica Sinica", Angelica sinensis boosts the immune system by upregulating IL-2 and IFN-gamma expression, thus activating Th1 cell.
3. Relieves headache
Headache is a common condition characterized by pain or discomfort in the head or neck area.
Often referred to as cephalalgia or migratory pain, it can range from mild to severe.
Headache is typically caused by factors such as stress, dehydration, tension, or changes in blood flow.
It commonly affects individuals experiencing high levels of stress, those with poor sleep patterns, or people suffering from migraines.
Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai, is traditionally used in herbal medicine to relieve headache by promoting blood circulation and reducing inflammation.
How this herb helps with relieves headache?
Angelica sinensis relieves headache because it contains bioactive constituents such as alkaloids and flavonoids.
These compounds have anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties that help reduce pain and improve blood flow. Alkaloids like ligustilide and butylidenephthalide are known for their analgesic effects. Flavonoids contribute to the plant's ability to alleviate tension and migraine-related headaches.
Together, these components support the traditional use of Angelica sinensis in treating headache symptoms.
Scientific Research
According to "Journal of ethnopharmacology", Angelica sinensis, specifically its Coumarins from Radix angelicae pubescentis (CRAP), has been found to relieve headaches in a positive way due to its analgesic and antinociceptive effects, which may be attributed to compounds such as osthole and columbianadin.
4. Eases pain
Chronic pain is a persistent and often debilitating condition characterized by ongoing discomfort that lasts for weeks, months, or even years.
This condition can manifest in various forms, such as muscular pain, joint pain, or nerve-related discomfort.
It is commonly caused by inflammation, injury, degenerative diseases, or chronic conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Individuals suffering from chronic pain often experience reduced mobility, sleep disturbances, and emotional distress.
Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to ease pain by reducing inflammation and promoting circulation.
How this herb helps with eases pain?
Angelica sinensis eases pain because it contains bioactive constituents such as alkaloids and flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
These compounds work by inhibiting pain-signaling pathways in the body. Alkaloids like ligustilide and butylphthalide help reduce inflammation and muscle spasms. Flavonoids contribute to the plant's ability to modulate pain perception.
Together, these components make Angelica sinensis a traditional remedy for various types of pain.
Scientific Research
According to "Frontiers in pharmacology", Angelica sinensis, also known as "Duhuo", has been shown to ease pain through its analgesic and anti-inflammatory actions.
5. Reduces stress
Stress Reduction.
Chronic stress is a pervasive condition characterized by prolonged psychological and physiological tension, often resulting from continuous exposure to demanding circumstances.
It can stem from work pressures, personal relationships, or financial instability, and is commonly experienced by individuals in high-pressure environments or those with poor coping mechanisms.
Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai, has been traditionally used to alleviate this condition by promoting relaxation and balancing the body's stress response.
Its adaptogenic properties may help regulate cortisol levels, offering a natural approach to managing stress in modern lifestyles.
How this herb helps with reduces stress?
Angelica sinensis reduces stress because it contains bioactive constituents such as alkaloids and flavonoids, which have been shown to modulate the body's stress response.
These compounds may help regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol. Flavonoids in angelica sinensis also possess antioxidant properties that combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Alkaloids contribute to the plant's calming effects by influencing neurotransmitter activity in the brain.
Overall, these natural compounds work synergistically to promote emotional balance and alleviate stress.
Scientific Research
According to "Phytotherapy research : PTR", Angelica sinensis is mentioned as one of the plants used in traditional Asian medicine to help reduce stress and anxiety.
6. Eases menstrual
Menstrual cramps.
Dysmenorrhea, painful menstruation, or uterine discomfort are synonyms for this condition.
It is caused by the contraction of the uterine muscles, often due to prostaglandin release, leading to pain and discomfort during the menstrual cycle.
This issue commonly affects women of reproductive age, particularly those with heavy or irregular periods.
Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai, is traditionally used in herbal medicine to ease menstrual cramps by promoting blood circulation and reducing inflammation.
How this herb helps with eases menstrual?
Angelica sinensis eases menstrual because it contains bioactive constituents such as alkaloids and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
These compounds help reduce uterine cramping and pain associated with menstruation. The alkaloids, including ligustilide and senkirkine, contribute to its ability to relax smooth muscle tissue. Flavonoids in angelica sinensis also support hormonal balance and improve blood circulation.
Together, these constituents make angelica sinensis a traditional remedy for menstrual discomfort.
Scientific Research
According to "Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica", Angelica sinensis does not directly mention easing menstrual cramps in a positive way, but it does discuss its pharmacological effects, including bidirectional effects on the uterus smooth muscle, which can inhibit the contraction of the uterus smooth muscle, suggesting it may have a positive impact on menstrual relief.
7. Eases cough
Coughing is a common respiratory condition characterized by a persistent urge to clear the throat or airways.
It can be caused by irritants, infections, allergies, or environmental factors such as pollution or cold weather.
This condition is frequently experienced by individuals with respiratory ailments, children with viral infections, and people exposed to allergens or smoke.
Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to ease cough symptoms by soothing the respiratory tract and reducing inflammation.
Its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties may help alleviate the discomfort associated with persistent coughing.
How this herb helps with eases cough?
Angelica sinensis eases cough because it contains bioactive constituents such as alkaloids and flavonoids, which possess anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties.
These compounds help reduce airway inflammation and relax the smooth muscles in the respiratory tract. The presence of compounds like ligustilide and sinensetin contributes to its effectiveness in alleviating cough symptoms. Additionally, the plant’s ability to improve mucus clearance supports respiratory health.
Overall, these bioactive components work synergistically to provide relief from coughing.
Scientific Research
According to "Current medicinal chemistry", Angelica sinensis has been traditionally used as a remedy for coughs.