Danggui is the dried root of the umbelliferous plant Angelica sinensis. It is divided into several parts: the upper part of the root is called Danggui Tou (DGT), the main root is called Danggui Shen (DGS), and the lateral root is called Danggui Wei (DGW). The whole root is referred to as "Quan Danggui" (QDG). So, what are the differences in the medicinal effects between DGT and DGW?
DGT specializes in blood tonification
DGT is known for its ability to tonify the blood. It has the effects of tonifying blood, promoting blood circulation, regulating menstruation and relieving pain, and moistening the intestines and promoting bowel movements. It is commonly used for symptoms such as headaches, dull complexion, dizziness, and so on, caused by deficiency of Qi and blood.
DGW specializes in blood stasis resolution
DGW is known for its ability to resolve blood stasis. It has the effect of promoting blood circulation and resolving stasis. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as menstrual blockage, bone and joint pain, numbness of the limbs, and swelling and pain caused by blood stasis.
The efficacy and functions of Danggui
Quan Danggui combines the blood-tonifying effect of DGT and DGS with the blood-stasis-resolving effect of DGW, so it can tonify the blood and promote blood circulation.
Blood tonification
Both DGT and DGS are adept at tonifying and nourishing the blood. In addition, Danggui has a sweet and heavy taste, which is particularly effective in tonifying the blood. Therefore, Danggui is suitable for symptoms such as pale or sallow complexion, fatigue, pale lips and nails, dizziness, palpitations, and insomnia caused by deficiency of the heart and liver blood.
Menstrual regulation and blood circulation promotion
DGT has the function of regulating menstruation and relieving pain, while DGW can promote blood circulation and resolve stasis. Moreover, Danggui has a light and pungent Qi, so it can also promote blood circulation. Therefore, Danggui is not only effective in regulating menstruation and relieving pain, but also suitable for women with irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, and blood deficiency causing menstrual blockage.
Intestinal moisturization and bowel movement promotion
DGT has the function of moisturizing the intestines and promoting bowel movements. It can alleviate the symptoms of constipation caused by blood deficiency by nourishing the blood and generating body fluids.
Who should not take Danggui
1. Women with excessive menstrual flow should especially avoid taking Danggui during their menstrual period, as it may increase menstrual blood flow and prolong the duration of menstruation.
2. People with loose stools should not take Danggui, as it can moisturize the intestines and promote bowel movements, which may cause diarrhea in such individuals.
3. Pregnant women should not take Danggui, especially before giving birth. Danggui can stimulate the uterus and cause uterine contractions, which may lead to difficult labor.
Precautions for taking Danggui
1. Danggui has low toxicity, but it should not be taken in large quantities at once. Excessive intake may cause toxic myocarditis or drug-induced renal failure.
2. The "Bencao Jing Ji Zhu" records that Danggui should not be taken together with Gepu, Haizao, and Mumeng (also known as Zishen).
