Dong Quai

Dong Quai as it relates to Menopause in Health report: Why Menopause is Much Worse for Some Women: The Genetic Factor

Dong Quai and Menopause

Dong Quai, also known as Angelica sinensis, is a popular herb in traditional Chinese medicine that has been used for centuries to help manage menopausal symptoms. Menopause is a natural biological process that occurs in women typically between the ages of 45 and 55, marking the end of their reproductive years. During menopause, women experience a decline in estrogen levels, leading to various symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.

Many women turn to Dong Quai as a natural remedy to alleviate these symptoms. Dong Quai is believed to have estrogen-like effects that can help balance hormone levels in the body. It is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with menopause.

Some studies suggest that Dong Quai may help relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of Dong Quai in managing menopausal symptoms.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using Dong Quai or any other herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. While Dong Quai is generally considered safe for most people, it may interact with certain medications or medical conditions.

Supplements for Menopause

Here are some dietary supplements related to the content in this report. Click the shopping cart to purchase the supplement from our partners.

  1. Black Cohosh

    Contains phytoestrogens that may bind to estrogen receptors and exert mild estrogen-like effects. Has been shown to help reduce hot flashes and night sweats in some studies.

  2. Red Clover

    Also contains phytoestrogens that may weakly activate estrogen receptors. Some evidence it can decrease hot flashes, but findings are mixed.

  3. Evening Primrose Oil

    Provides the essential fatty acid GLA which may help moderate prostaglandin synthesis and promote serotonin production to improve mood. Small studies show possible reduction in hot flashes.

  4. Dong Quai

    Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for menopausal symptoms. Contains phytoestrogens and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Limited evidence it reduces hot flashes.

  5. Ginseng

    May help modulate hormonal changes and boost mood through its ginsenoside compounds. Data on efficacy for menopausal symptoms is inconsistent.

  6. St. John's Wort

    Thought to boost serotonin, dopamine, and GABA to improve mood. Small studies suggest it may decrease psychological symptoms like depression.

  7. Soy Isoflavones

    Rich in phytoestrogens that mimic weak estrogen activity. May help minimize hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances.

  8. Vitamin E

    Has antioxidant properties that may dampen hot flashes. Mixed evidence on its usefulness for menopausal symptoms.

  9. Maca

    This root vegetable contains phytoestrogens and amino acids that may help balance hormones and improve mood. Some evidence it decreases hot flashes and anxiety.

  10. Flaxseed

    Provides lignans that act as phytoestrogens, as well as omega-3 fatty acids to help manage hot flashes and night sweats.

  11. Ashwagandha

    An adaptogenic herb that may counteract stress hormones and improve thyroid function. Limited data it benefits mood, energy, and hot flashes.

  12. Chasteberry

    May normalize prolactin and support estrogen production. Small studies show reduced irritability, breast pain, insomnia related to menopause.

  13. Turmeric

    Has anti-inflammatory effects that may alleviate joint pain associated with menopause. May also help manage hot flashes.

  14. Wild Yam

    Thought to exert estrogenic effects from its diosgenin compound. Insufficient evidence currently on efficacy for menopausal symptoms.

  15. Vitamin D

    Important for bone health post-menopause. May also help mitigate mood changes, fatigue, and muscle/joint discomfort.

  16. Melatonin

    Helps regulate circadian rhythms disturbed around menopause. Could improve sleep quality and hot flashes/night sweats.

  17. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

    EPA/DHA forms have anti-inflammatory effects. May decrease hot flashes, joint pain, mood swings.

It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting any of these supplements. They can have side effects, and some may interact with medications or other supplements you're already taking.
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