In the long-standing tradition of Chinese medicine, Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis) has always held a significant position, known as the “Holy Medicine for Blood” and “Ginseng for Women“. It is detailed in the Compendium of Materia Medica as a vital herb for nourishing blood. Dang Gui can nourish blood, invigorate blood circulation, and warm the blood, making it a valuable assistant for health maintenance.
The Five Major Benefits of Dang Gui
1. Skin Repair, Dang Gui is a natural antioxidant. Our skin is attacked by UV rays and air pollution in daily life, leading to aging. Proper consumption can repair skin damage. Ancient texts like the Discussion on Medicinal Properties mention that Dang Gui “moisturizes the skin”, which is indeed very reasonable; Dang Gui is a secret weapon for modern women pursuing beauty.2. Immune System Regulation, Dang Gui serves as an “energy supply station” for the immune system. The polysaccharides in Dang Gui can activate macrophages and enhance lymphocyte proliferation, strengthening immune function. My neighbor’s grandmother, who has a weak immune system and often falls ill, has been given Dang Gui soup by her children after learning about its benefits. Gradually, her frequency of colds decreased, and her vitality improved. Studies have found that those who regularly consume Dang Gui have about a 30% lower chance of catching colds during seasonal changes, as Dang Gui acts like a sturdy armor for the immune system.3. Promotes Blood Circulation, Dang Gui is like a “warm little sun”. The vitamin B12 and niacin in Dang Gui can dilate blood vessels and reduce blood viscosity. Many people experience cold hands and feet and a pale complexion in winter, which is caused by poor blood circulation.
4. Promotes Intestinal Health: Traditional Chinese medicine believes that “blood moistens the intestines”; Dang Gui can nourish blood and generate fluids, effectively regulating blood deficiency-type constipation without harming the body’s righteous qi. An elderly person who suffered from chronic constipation tried many methods without success. Later, on a doctor’s advice, they took Dang Gui powder, and after a week, their bowel movements became smooth, and they felt much more relaxed.5. Supports Women’s Health, historically, Dang Gui has played an important role in regulating menstruation and alleviating pain. It can adjust estrogen levels and relieve most women’s dysmenorrhea symptoms. However, it is important to note that it is best to avoid Dang Gui during menstruation to prevent excessive blood circulation.
Dang Gui Nourishing Medicinal Dishes
1. Dang Gui and Tian Ma (Gastrodia Elata) Steamed Eggs: Suitable for those with chronic diseases of “qi deficiency and blood stasis”, such as patients with hypertension and diabetes-related complications. The synergistic effect of gastrodin and Dang Gui polysaccharides can improve blood circulation in the brain, alleviating symptoms for sub-healthy individuals experiencing dizziness and fatigue.
2. Dang Gui and Carp Soup: Very suitable for postpartum mothers. Adding 5 grams of dried tangerine peel to the soup can remove greasiness and enhance spleen health. A postpartum woman who drank this soup for a while saw a significant increase in her hemoglobin levels and recovered quickly.
3. Dang Gui, Longan (Dimocarpus Longan), and Pig Kidney Soup: Very helpful for those with palpitations and insomnia; the coenzyme Q10 in pig kidneys combined with the iron in Dang Gui can enhance myocardial oxygen supply.
4. Dang Gui Powder Drink: Grinding Dang Gui with 3% vitamin C powder can prevent the effective components of Dang Gui from oxidizing, allowing for better absorption by the body.
There are also contraindications for consuming Dang Gui; these five groups should avoid it.
1. Patients with Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia, and Diabetes: Dang Gui may enhance the effects of some anticoagulant medications, so those taking antihypertensive drugs should consume it under a doctor’s guidance.
2. Individuals with Weak Gastrointestinal Function: Excessive consumption of Dang Gui can burden the gastrointestinal tract. It is advisable to start with 1 gram of Dang Gui powder daily, paired with 3 slices of ginger to alleviate the burden on the stomach.
3. Individuals with Allergic Constitutions: Approximately 0.3% of people may develop rashes after consuming Dang Gui, so it is best to conduct a skin patch test before trying it for the first time.
4. Individuals with Damp-Heat Constitution: Those with pre-existing damp-heat conditions may exacerbate their symptoms by consuming Dang Gui.
5. Friends with High Blood Sugar or Diabetes: They should be cautious with consumption, as Dang Gui contains a considerable amount of sugar, which can lead to elevated blood sugar levels if consumed excessively.
When consuming Dang Gui, it is important to arrange it according to individual conditions, not exceeding three times a week, with each dosage controlled to within 10 grams. I hope everyone can harness the power of Dang Gui to achieve a healthy body.
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