Chinese angelica

Angelica sinensis

Angelica sinensis, commonly known as Dong Quai, is traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its purported effects on women's health and blood regulation. While specific traditional uses are not well-documented, it has been employed in various Asian cultures for centuries. Scientific evidence suggests that Angelica sinensis contains compounds like DAZ NPs and dioscin, which may enhance the stability and bioavailability of other active ingredients. Additionally, studies indicate that Angelica sinensis treatment can increase thymic cortical area and thymocyte development in mice, suggesting potential immune-modulating properties. Metabolic and transcriptomic analyses have also shown differences between wild and cultivated varieties, highlighting their distinct biological activities. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been reported for Angelica sinensis to date.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • DAZ NPs enhanced dioscin's stability, bioaccessibility, and hepatocyte viability compared to free dioscin. D PMID
  • Metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses revealed differences in metabolite levels and gene expression between wild and cultivated Angelica sinensis. D PMID
  • Angelica sinensis treatment dose-dependently increased thymic cortical area and thymocyte development in mice with acute thymic involution. D PMID
  • Electron beam irradiation enhanced Angelica sinensis polysaccharide extraction yield and modified their biofunctional properties in a dose-dependent manner. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Chinese angelica?

Chinese angelica (Angelica sinensis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Chinese angelica?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Chinese angelica; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: DAZ NPs enhanced dioscin's stability, bioaccessibility, and hepatocyte viability compared to free dioscin.

How strong is the evidence for Chinese angelica?

The strongest finding for Chinese angelica carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Chinese angelica safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Chinese angelica in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Chinese angelica interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Chinese angelica in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Chinese angelica?

Chinese angelica is also known as: Angélique de Chine.

Is Chinese angelica a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Nano-assembly of dioscin via zein-Angelica sinensis polysaccharide composite nanocarriers: structure, stability, bioaccessibility and bioactivity. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Efficiently electron beam radiation-induced degradation and extraction of Angelica sinensis polysaccharides and its excellent biofunctional properties. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Integrated metabolomics and transcriptomics reveal metabolite differences between wild and cultivated Angelica sinensis. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 [Angelica sinensis promotes thymic cortical regeneration in mice with acute thymic involution induced by short-term rapamycin treatment]. literature abstract metadata