Angelica sinensis Seeds | Dong Quai
LATIN NAME: Angelica sinensis
COMMON NAME: Dong Quai, Female Ginseng
Plant Profile
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) is a herbaceous perennial of the carrot family (Apiaceae), native to the cool, high mountains of western China, where it is cultivated on a large scale. It grows 60-120 cm tall, with finely divided leaves, flat-topped umbels of small white flowers and a stout, aromatic, branched root. The root, dang gui, is one of the most prescribed herbs of Chinese medicine, the classic blood tonic of countless formulas.
Science & Biotechnology
Dang gui is chemically dominated by the volatile phthalide ligustilide — responsible for the root’s characteristic aroma and much of its antispasmodic activity in laboratory models — together with ferulic acid, both of which serve as assay markers for the drug. Clinical evidence is more sobering than the traditional reputation: a randomised, double-blind trial in postmenopausal women found dang gui no better than placebo for menopausal symptoms and detected no clear oestrogen-like effect. The root contains furanocoumarins, and photosensitisation, uterine stimulation and potentiation of warfarin have all been reported, so it is contraindicated in pregnancy and alongside anticoagulant therapy.
Angelica sinensis sits in the Angelica group, a group that keeps botanists, horticulturists and plant breeders busy with questions of classification, adaptation and ornamental potential. China’s Min County in Gansu remains the world’s principal production centre for cultivated dong quai, supporting a globally significant agricultural and herbal trade closely studied by agricultural economists as well as pharmacologists. Modern propagation practice has made this species straightforward to raise by ordinary good methods.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Dong Quai for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. Its cultivation supports a substantial agricultural economy in parts of Gansu province, where growing conditions have proven particularly well suited to producing high-quality root. Once it has settled, the workload drops to almost nothing.
Dang Gui is the supreme blood-nourishing herb of Chinese medicine, present in more classical formulas for women’s health than any other; its ferulic acid and ligustilide are studied for circulation and hormonal balance. The root is a staple of Chinese tonic soups.
Growing from Seed
Dong Quai is one of those generous plants that come along well from seed. Fresh seed is best, since viability declines quickly once dried, and a period of cold, moist stratification helps if sowing must be delayed. Sow into a loose, humus-rich, moisture-retentive mix in a cool position reflecting this species’ high-altitude origin, and be prepared for a multi-year growing period before root reaches a size traditionally considered ready for harvest. A simple routine works well: sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, maintain even moisture, and provide bright light. Shift the seedlings into small pots as soon as they can be handled, and give them bright light until planting-out time.
Our Take
We find Dong Quai interesting for growers curious about traditional plant uses, though any medicinal application deserves care and proper guidance rather than casual experimentation. It is also refreshingly straightforward from seed, which makes it a good option even for less experienced growers.
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