Evidence supporting the use of: Dong quai root
For the health condition: Progesterone (low)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is a prominent herb in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), often referred to as "female ginseng." It has been used for centuries to support women’s reproductive health, including irregular menstruation, menstrual cramps, and menopausal symptoms. In TCM, dong quai is thought to "nourish the blood" and help regulate the menstrual cycle, which practitioners may associate with hormonal balance. However, there is no direct traditional indication for dong quai specifically to increase or support low progesterone; rather, its use is broader in terms of supporting overall menstrual health.

From a scientific perspective, research on dong quai’s effects on progesterone specifically is limited. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that dong quai contains phytoestrogens and may modulate estrogenic activity, but there is little evidence to show a direct impact on progesterone levels. Clinical studies primarily focus on dong quai’s use for menopausal symptoms or as part of herbal combinations, not as a standalone treatment for low progesterone. Thus, while dong quai is traditionally used for menstrual and reproductive health, its use for supporting or treating low progesterone is primarily tradition-based, with weak scientific backing. Overall, the evidence supporting dong quai for low progesterone is limited and rated at 2 out of 5, reflecting traditional use with minimal direct scientific validation.

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