Dong Quai Fertility

The health benefits of dong quai, and the use od dong quai for fertility:

The natural herb, Dong quai, is a natural treatment that dates back for several millennia. In Asian societies, particularly, dong quai has been used as a health tonic for many generations. In particular, dong quai has been used for the health of the reproductive system in females.  Dong quai is so popular that it is the second most commonly used herb in both China and Japan.

The source of dong quai

Dong quai is a natural herb derived from a ubiquitous plant called angelica sinensis in China.  In Japan, the root is known as A. acutiloba. Both of these plants contain hollow stems which are eight feet in height.  The tops of the plants contain broad clusters of white flowers.  The flowers resemble Queen Anne's lace.  Dong quai has also been used in modern societies for many types of conditions, some of which aren't related to the female reproductive system.

The most frequent uses of dong quai, however, are those that promote female health.  The herb is believed to regulate the menstrual cycle and is supposed to improve the health of the uterus.  Some studies have shown that dong quai contains coumarins, which are chemicals that thin the blood and dilate the arteries.  This promotes a healthy nervous system and maximizes blood flow throughout the system.  It is believed that these coumarins exert an effect on the uterine muscle so that it can relax and decrease menstrual cramps.

Some believe that dong quai works great in helping the symptoms of PMS and in helping menstrual cycles become regular again.   This herb has been used to treat absent menstrual cycles and has been known to keep the menstrual cycles more regular. Once regular, dong quai can be continued as a means of blocking menstrual cramps. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which controls the pain of menstrual cramps.  

Dong Quai Benefits

Women with endometriosis find significant relief of their pain when taking dong quai, especially when mixed with the herb chasteberry. Endometriosis is extremely painful so that, during times of pain, women will often take dong quai with black cohosh, ginseng, and chasteberry to control the pain.  For women in menopause, dong quai is used to take care of the hot flashes seen in this condition.

Dong quai is also an excellent source of the natural vitamin B12.  For this reason, it is believed to participate in the stimulation of the red blood cells in the bone marrow.  It is common to use dong quai with other herbs.  When done so, it is believed to dilate the arteries, improve blood flow and improve the way the heart pumps.  This is why so many Chinese healthcare providers recommend the herb for problems with circulation and hypertension.   
You can find dong quai in health food stores provided in a number of ways.  Dong quai comes in tablets, capsules, liquid and tinctures. Dong quai makes a very good tea when you purchase the dried herb and steep it in hot water.