Guest guest Posted November 21, 2005 Report Share Posted November 21, 2005 Dong Quai TRADITIONAL USES: Menopause, hot flashes, natural estrogen, hormone balancer, nerves, spasms. Dong Quai pronounced "don kwy" is one of China most popular herbs for women. It grows primarily in three provinces of western China: Shansi, Shantug, and Chihli. The root, which has a very strong smell and a sweet taste, is harvested in late autumn after the plant is three years old. The plant's root has a vitamin E content which actually outranks that of wheat germ. Dong Quail is also a source of iron and cobalt. (Nature's sunshine) FACTS: Dubbed the "female ginseng," dong quai is an all-purpose herb for a wide range of female gynecological complaints. For centuries, Chinese women have used this herb to regulate the menstrual cycle and quell painful menstrual cramps caused by uterine contractions. Modern herbalists use dong quai to eliminate the discomfort of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and to help women resume normal menstruation after going off "the pill." Dong quai is also reputed to be useful against hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause caused by hormonal changes. Rich in vitamins and minerals including A, B12, and E, this herb may also prevent anemia. Dong quai has also been used to treat insomnia and high blood pressure for both sexes. Both men and women use this herb as a blood tonic. One of the most widely used herbs in the Orient, dong quai duck is a popular Cantonese dish. CAUTION: Do not use during pregnancy or if you are still menstruating and typically have a heavy flow. (Earl Mindell's, Herb Bible) Dong quai is an aromatic herb that grows in China, Korea, and Japan. The reputation of Don quai is second only to Ginseng and is considered the ultimate, all-purpose woman's tonic herb. It is used for almost every gynecological complaint from regulating the menstrual cycle to treating menopausal symptoms caused by hormonal changes. Dong quai is frequently used by the Chinese as a strengthening treatment for the heart, spleen, liver and kidneys. Both men and women use the herb as a general blood tonic. Dong quai contains vitamins E, A and B12. Researchers have isolated at least six coumarin derivatives that exert antispasmodic and vasodilatory effects. Antispasmodics are a remedy for menstrual cramps. The essential oil in dong quai contains Ligustilide, butylphthalide and numerous other minor components. Ferulic acid and various polysaccharides are also found in dong quai's root. These elements can prevent spasms, reduce blood clotting and relax peripheral blood vessels. Research has shown that don quai produces a balancing effect on estrogen activity. Modern treatments prescribe the herb to combat PMS and to help women resume normal menstruation after using birth control pills. The herb has been found useful in balancing and treating many female systems and cycles. Dong quai's constituents can act to stimulate the central nervous system which can remedy weakness and headaches associated with menstrual disorders. It strengthens internal reproductive organs, helps with endometriosis and internal bleeding or bruising. It relieves menopausal conditions such as vaginal dryness and hot flashes. The herb has also been used as a blood purifier, to promote blood circulation and nourish the blood in both sexes. It is high in iron content and may help to prevent iron deficiency and anemia. Studies show that it can aid in regulating blood sugar and in lowering blood pressure. Dong quai has a mild sedative effect which can relieve stress and calms the nerves. It has also be used to stimulate the uterus during childbirth, treat insomnia, alleviate constipation and for migraine headaches. (Herbal Information Center) Suzi What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered. health/ www.onegrp.com/?mamanott organic cosmetics http://suziesgoats.wholefoodfarmacy.com/ FareChase - Search multiple travel sites in one click. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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