Dong Quai Side Effects

Dong quai is a perennial plant that belongs to celery family, with a scientific name of Angelica sinensis. It grows at high altitudes in the mountains of the cold and damp regions of China, Japan and Korea. In Chinese language, 'Dong quai' means to 'return to order'. In Chinese medicine, it is believed to best suit individuals with yin or low energy profile, because it of its mildly warming effects. Dong quai roots contain compounds that dilate blood vessels, reduce pain and stimulate and relax muscles of the uterus. It is also known to treat arthritis and spleen disorders. However, improper usage and dosage may make Dong quai to cause certain negative effects on the health of the user. Though not many, yet they exist.

Breast Cancer Onset
Dong quai contains phytoestrogens that compensate for the deficiency of the female sex hormone estrogen in a woman's body. This enables it to temporarily treat various disorders of the female reproductive system. These are menstrual cramps, menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), menstrual irregularity, premenstrual syndrome and menopause symptoms. However, many research scientists believe that phytoestrogens may trigger the cancerous growth of breast tissue.

Increase in Photosensitivity
Higher doses or long term usage of Dong quai causes inflammation and skin rashes. This is because it works to increase the photosensitivity of the skin. Moreover, during angelica extract usage, people generally complain of increased sensitivity to light. Therefore, in order to keep such Dong quai side effects at bay, you should always apply sunscreen lotion before going out in the sun or minimize sun exposure as much as possible.

Miscarriage
The use of Dong quai is prohibited for pregnant women. The reason lies in its hormonal and anticoagulant properties. It may disturb the normal balance of the hormones, which further may result in abortion or miscarriage. It is also not recommendable to those women who experience extensive menstrual flow. These are some other side effects of Dong quai.

Excessive Blood Thinning
Dong quai roots contain coumarin derivatives that have a blood thinning property. This is the factor that makes angelica extract unsuitable for consumption by people who are on any kind of anticoagulant prescription. Its over usage can cause excessive thinning of the blood, which will result in another line of medical complications, like bleeding.

Gynecomastia
Dong quai contains phytoestrogen that has weak estrogen like properties. Estrogen is a female sex hormone but is also found to be present in the male body. The level of estrogen is always lower than that of the male sex hormones in men. Over consumption of Dong quai disturbs the balance of male and female hormones in men. Higher concentration of estrogen causes an enlargement of breasts in men. This condition is medically termed as gynecomastia. Hence, another Dong quai side effect is gynecomastia.

Drug Interaction
Dong quai is supposed to interact with a number of drugs and cause side effects. Some of the drugs with which Dong quai has been reported to have produced side effects on interaction, are warfarin, aspirin and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen. Some other drugs known to interact with Dong quai are ardeparin, dalteparin, danaparoid and heparin. Some other examples of such drugs are antioxidants and health supplements.

Other Side Effects
Dong quai herb has been observed to push the blood sugar levels to high limits. This way, it can worsen the condition of diabetic patients. Secondly, higher doses of Dong quai cause negative effects on the blood pressure, circulatory and respiratory systems. Thirdly, it is a laxative and hence, incorrect doses may trigger the onset of diarrhea and other abdominal disorders.

In order to derive numerous Dong quai benefits without getting your health affected, you should never indulge in self medication. Dong quai needs to be taken only when actually required and in recommended quantities. The best person to tell you all these is a qualified medical professional. Consult him and follow his instructions and advice, to always remain on the safe side.