Latin (botanical) name: Angelica sinensis

Common names: Empress of the Herbs, The Female Ginseng

Plant Description: Native to China and Japan, Dong Quai is a biennial and perennial plant, commonly found in well watered mountain ravines, riverbanks and damp meadows. Its stem is round, grooved, hollow fluted and tinged with blue or purple It is usually 3-8 feet tall. It has greenish-white flowers which bloom from May to August. The leaves of the Dong Quai plant resemble those of carrots, celery, or parsley.

Use: Make a tea by pouring approximately 2 cups of boiling water over 2 heaped tsp of herb. Let steep for 3-5 minutes. In general, sip a cup before breakfast, and another 2 hours after dinner.

Cautions & Interactions: Do not use while pregnant or lactating. Keep out of reach of children.