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Types of Dong Quai: Forms & Bioavailability

Evidence:Preliminary
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Forms Comparison

FormBioavailabilityBest For
Standardized Root ExtractModerateWestern supplement use — standardized to ferulic acid or ligustilide content
Dried Root Slices (for decoction)ModerateTraditional TCM preparation — boiled in water as a decoction, often combined with other herbs
Granule or Powder (in TCM formula)ModerateMulti-herb formulas — the traditional and most evidence-supported method of use in TCM

Standardized Root Extract

Bioavailability: Moderate. Best for: Western supplement use — standardized to ferulic acid or ligustilide content.

Dried Root Slices (for decoction)

Bioavailability: Moderate. Best for: Traditional TCM preparation — boiled in water as a decoction, often combined with other herbs.

Granule or Powder (in TCM formula)

Bioavailability: Moderate. Best for: Multi-herb formulas — the traditional and most evidence-supported method of use in TCM.

Full Dong Quai Guide

References

  1. RCTHirata JD, Swiersz LM, Zell B, Small R, Ettinger B (1997). Does dong quai have estrogenic effects in postmenopausal women? A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Fertility and Sterility. DOI PubMed
  2. ReviewHook IL (2014). Danggui to Angelica sinensis root: are potential benefits to European women a lost in translation?. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. DOI PubMed
  3. RCTNewton KM, Reed SD, Grothaus L, Ehrlich K, et al. (2008). Reprint of The Herbal Alternatives for Menopause (HALT) Study: background and study design.. Maturitas. DOI PubMed
  4. RCTRotem C, Kaplan B (2007). Phyto-Female Complex for the relief of hot flushes, night sweats and quality of sleep: randomized, controlled, double-blind pilot study.. Gynecological endocrinology : the official journal of the International Society of Gynecological Endocrinology. DOI PubMed
  5. RCTNewton KM, Reed SD, Grothaus L, Ehrlich K, et al. (2005). The Herbal Alternatives for Menopause (HALT) Study: background and study design.. Maturitas. DOI PubMed