Evidence supporting the use of: Dong quai
For the body system: Vagina
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) is an herb traditionally used in Chinese medicine, often referred to as "female ginseng." Its use in supporting the female reproductive system, including vaginal health, is rooted in centuries of traditional practice rather than robust scientific validation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Dong Quai is believed to “tonify” the blood, regulate menstrual cycles, and alleviate symptoms of menopause and premenstrual syndrome. It is sometimes included in herbal formulas aimed at addressing vaginal dryness, menstrual irregularities, and general reproductive health.
However, scientific evidence supporting Dong Quai's efficacy for specific vaginal health concerns remains limited. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that Dong Quai contains phytoestrogens and may have mild estrogenic effects, which could theoretically support vaginal tissue health. There are also small clinical trials suggesting modest benefits for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, but results are inconsistent and often involve Dong Quai in combination with other herbs, making it difficult to isolate its individual effects.
Overall, while Dong Quai's use for vaginal health is justified primarily by tradition, more rigorous clinical research is needed to establish its safety and effectiveness for this specific purpose.
Other ingredients that support Vagina
AlchemillaAletris
Aloe vera
bacteria
bayberry
black cohosh
blue cohosh
Calendula
Clary sage
cohosh
cranberry
daidzein
damiana
dong quai
equol (proprietary)
estrogen
evening primrose oil
false unicorn root
fennel
fenugreek
genistein
giant trillium
golden ragwort
isoflavones
Labisia pumila
Lactobacillus
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Lactobacillus crispatus
Lactobacillus fermentum
Lactobacillus gasseri
Lactobacillus jensenii
Lactobacillus kefiri
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus salivarius
Lactococcus rhamnosus
Lady's Mantle
licorice root
Miroestrol
Montanoa tomentosa
Phytoestrogens
probiotics
red clover
rose
rose oil
sage
Sanguisorba
Shataverins
Soy
soy isoflavones
soybean
squawvine
Tea Tree Oil
vitamin D
Vitex Agnus-Castus
White Dead Nettle Flower
Wild yam
Other body systems supported by dong quai
BloodCirculatory System
Estrogen
Female Reproductive System
Glandular System
Liver
Ovaries
Reproductive System
Uterus
Vagina
