Angelica Root
Ingredient Name: Chinese Angelica Root
Chinese Name: 當歸 (dāng guī)
What is this?
- Also known as Dong Quai, Tang-Kuei or “female ginseng”, the chinese angelica root is a very popular herb used in chinese medicine and is highly revered, second only to ginseng root
- The herb, which is indigenous to China, is typically used to treat gynecological ailments, fatigue, mild anemia and high blood pressure
- Women who suffer menstrual ailments or menopause are often given chinese angelica root to relieve symptoms
- The root is also considered an aphrodisiac
- The taste is sweet, warm, pungent and slightly bitter
How do I prepare it?
- Soak in water for several minutes and rinse before using
Where can I buy this?
- Chinese angelica root can be purchased at all Chinese dried herb shops
- In the above photo, the angelica roots are shown as whole roots. It is also possible to buy sliced angelica root for use in soups
What is the cost?
- 1 pound of dried angelica root costs approximately $15 CAD
Any benefits?
- The Angelica Root is used to nourish the blood (blood tonic) and is believed to help invigorate blood circulation.
- It can strenghten the liver, heart, and spleen and is also a uterine tonic, effective against menstrual disorders.
- It is widely used in confinement soups and recipes to treat postpartum women
- The root is also used to treat common colds as an expectorant
- Chinese angelica root is one of the few good non-animal sources of Vitamin B12
Any precautions?
- Pregnant women should not use angelica root
- Consuming large doses may lead to sensitivity to sunlight
References
Sliced Angelica Root
