Evidence supporting the use of: Dong quai root
For the health condition: PMS Type D

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Synopsis

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

Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is an herb widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and other East Asian medical systems for a variety of women’s health concerns, including menstrual irregularities and symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Its use to support PMS, particularly “PMS Type D” (which refers to PMS characterized by depressive symptoms, mood swings, and emotional disturbances), is based primarily on traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation.

In TCM, dong quai is often referred to as the “female ginseng” due to its reputation for balancing female hormones and nourishing the blood. Classic texts and herbalists have used dong quai in combination formulas to address symptoms such as mood instability, irritability, and fatigue associated with menstruation, which align with PMS Type D. The herb is thought to regulate the menstrual cycle and alleviate emotional symptoms by supporting liver and blood health, concepts central to TCM diagnosis.

Modern scientific evidence is limited and largely inconclusive. Some animal or in vitro studies suggest possible effects on neurotransmitters and hormone modulation, but there are few high-quality human clinical trials specifically examining dong quai for PMS Type D symptoms. Thus, its use for this condition is based more on traditional rationale and clinical experience within herbal medicine than on rigorous scientific validation.

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