Journeying through the cold and damp mountains of China, Japan, and Korea, Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis) has stood the test of time as an herbal medicine and culinary spice for thousands of years. Its smooth purple stems, adorned with clusters of white flowers and fruit in the summer, captivate nature enthusiasts. However, it is the yellowish-brown root of this perennial plant that holds immense power within Traditional Chinese Medicine theory.

Often dubbed "female ginseng," Dang Gui has earned popularity for its efficacy in alleviating menopause-related hot flashes and harmonizing one's physical and mental state during the premenstrual phase of the cycle. Beyond its acclaimed benefits for women's health, Dang Gui's calming impact extends to individuals of all genders, offering relief from inflammation, headaches, fatigue, and supporting cardiovascular health.

Often Called "Female Ginseng"

Revered as "female ginseng," Dang Gui plays a pivotal role in Chinese Medicine for women's health concerns. Widely used in conjunction with herbs like mint and white peony, it exerts a soothing and purifying effect. Chinese farmers have traditionally harvested the root after three years of maturation in the fall, a practice passed down for millennia due to Dang Gui's renowned efficacy in treating various women's health issues.

From managing menopausal symptoms to supporting emotional well-being, this herb has become an indispensable ally for women seeking balance in their lives.

For Men, Too: Emotional Balance for Mental Calmness

Despite its association with women's health, Dang Gui offers benefits that extend beyond gender distinctions. With its calming properties, it can pacify anyone's system, effectively addressing stress-related concerns. Researchers in Korea found that Dang Gui extract prevented bone loss in rats, hinting at potential benefits for osteoarthrosis in humans.

While Western science acknowledges the herb's merits, further research is required to unveil the full extent of its therapeutic potential. Nevertheless, Dang Gui continues to be widely popular in China and is a key ingredient in supplements, including Emotional Balance by Dao Labs.

The root of Dang Gui remains one of the most popular herbs in China and is often used in supplements (an important ingredient in Emotional Balance by Dao Labs) available in Europe and North America.

Xiao Yao Powder & Tablets

A reason Dang Gui is still so popular in China is because it is a key ingredient in Xiao Yao, a powder that is ingested to relieve stress. The term "Xiao Yao" has a special place in Chinese culture, according to Dr. Eric Karchmer, DAO Lab's Chief Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine:

“Known as Xiao Yao Powder in Chinese, this formula has a uniquely evocative name that means to wander freely, to ramble, to move unimpeded and unfettered,” Karchmer says.

“This same phrase, Xiao Yao, is also the title of the first chapter of the famous Daoist text, Zhuang Zi, and it captures beautifully the philosophy of this great Daoist thinker of the same name. Zhuang Zi stressed above all the importance of being in the flow, of becoming one with the Way,” Karchmer added.  

Finding "Balance" When Balance is Needed Most

Dang Gui is prized within Chinese Medicine because it can be used in several herbal combinations that alleviate feelings of stress, fatigue and anxiousness for both men and women. The Daoists who wondered the mountains of China near Dang Gui’s natural habitat happily spread the word about the root’s ability to help one find emotional balance, an essential goal of Daoism.

And in today’s always rushed world, Dang Gui can again help us become happy wanderers once again.

Ready To Try The Power Of Dang Gui?

Enjoy the strength of dang gui along with seven other essential Chinese herbs. Experience emotional balance with this blend of Chinese medicine. You can save 15% by ordering now!

Herbal therapy is an essential component of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Based on the principle that our bodies have self-healing mechanisms that can be activated with the touch of nature, herbal therapy awakens the body’s ability to rejuvenate blocked or depleted resources in order to restore balance. Strengthening your body and your Qi - your energy - through the use of herbs not only aids in the prevention and treatment of disease, but when used regularly, helps us maintain a lifestyle of well-being and harmony. 

In "The Herb Series", we provide a bit more information and context around the herbs that comprise the DAO Labs’ products. Chinese herbs are powerful, complex and at times, confusing. We’ll attempt to break them down for you in these easy to read updates, but feel free to contact us for more information.

Care Consideration: Just a reminder that the above information is not a substitute for medical care and is not a substitute for medical advice or recommendations  from a healthcare provider.  This information is not intended to treat, mitigate or cure any disease.  That said, we encourage you to connect with an Acupuncturist in your community to learn more about this and other Traditional Chinese Medicine options.  If you’ve got questions about Chinese herbal medicine or getting started with an Acupuncturist, feel free to connect with us on hello@mydaolabs.com. 

Dr. Eric Karchmer is a practicing Chinese medical doctor, medical anthropologist, and co-founder and Chief Doctor of Chinese Medicine for DAO Labs. From 1995-2000, Eric studied at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine and today is both a licensed acupuncturist and professor at Appalachian State University. Eric can be reached at drkarchmer@mydaolabs.com.