Dong quai has the effect of regulating menstruation and improving dysmenorrhea. Some people not only take dong quai in the morning but also in the evening. So, can dong quai be taken in the evening?
Can dong quai be taken in the evening?
It can be taken in moderation.
Dong quai has a bitter and pungent taste and a slightly cold nature. Its main effects include promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, diuresis, reducing swelling, clearing heat, and detoxification. It is commonly used to treat menstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, edema, and oliguria. If you have a need for it, taking dong quai in the evening in moderation will not have any other adverse effects.
How much dong quai should be taken in the evening?
About 20 grams.
It is generally recommended to take about 20 grams of dong quai in the evening. Because the digestive function of the stomach and intestines is weaker in the evening, taking too much dong quai in the evening may result in incomplete absorption of its medicinal effects by the stomach and intestines, and the cold nature of dong quai may stimulate the stomach and intestines, causing discomfort.
When is the best time to drink dong quai?
It is recommended to take it half an hour or one hour after a meal.
In general, half an hour to one hour after a meal is when the stomach secretes enzymes most actively. Taking dong quai at this time can help the stomach and intestines better absorb its medicinal effects, allow the active ingredients to exert better effects, and reduce the irritation of dong quai to the gastric mucosa. If taken too late, the activity of the stomach and intestines may be reduced, which may lead to indigestion.
Contraindications for taking dong quai
1. Pregnant women
Dong quai has the effect of promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, which can to some extent stimulate the uterus and promote uterine contractions. Taking too much dong quai during pregnancy may cause vaginal bleeding or threatened miscarriage.
2. Deficiency of yin and blood
Dong quai has a strong blood circulation effect but does not have the effect of tonifying blood. Taking dong quai for those with deficiency of yin and blood may worsen symptoms such as pale lips and nails, dry mouth and throat, dizziness, fatigue, and hot flashes.
3. Individuals with sensitive constitution
A small portion of people with allergies may experience symptoms such as chest tightness, palpitations, rapid breathing, rash, and itching after taking dong quai. If you are unsure if you are allergic, you can take a small amount first and observe if there is any discomfort. If there is none, you can proceed with taking it.
How to prepare dong quai tea
Preparation:
1. Put dong quai in a cheesecloth bag.
2. Soak it in water for about 20 minutes.
3. Pour it into a clay pot and bring it to a boil over high heat.
4. Then simmer over low heat for about 20-30 minutes.
5. Remove the cheesecloth bag and pour out the herbal decoction.
6. Let it cool slightly before consumption.
7. You can also add an appropriate amount of brown sugar and stir well before consumption.
