Dong Quai: Uterine Tonic and Fertility Herb….

by Hethir Rodriguez, MH, CMT

Dong Quai Fertility HerbDong Quai (angelica sinensis) is one of the most powerful females tonic and fertility herbs. Dong Quai tonifies and strengthens the uterus by regulating hormonal control, improving uterine tone, and improving the timing of the menstrual cycle.

In traditional Chinese medicine Dong Quai is referred to as a blood tonic as it has a general effect on circulation. This could be helpful for women experiencing pale menstrual flow, absent periods, and weakness after periods (in TCM this is called blood deficient). It has also been shown to improve red blood cell counts. It is traditionally used for situations of stagnation (PCOS, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and fibroids) as it increases the blood flow to the reproductive system reducing congestion and pain.

Dong Quai may be helpful for:

Menstrual irregularities
Delayed or absent menstruation
Short periods with cramping
If you experience cramping and PMS during your period.
Women who have stopped taking birth control pills and need to encourage a regular cycle
Light or slow starting menstruation
Stagnant conditions

How Dong Quai Works

Watch Video: Fertility Herb Dong Quai

Dong Quai works by promoting blood flow to the pelvis where it will stimulate an absent or scanty period. It also nourishes the blood (it is in nearly all Chinese herbal blood-building formulas). Treats iron deficiency and anemia. One of the best uses is it helps women who are not menstruating to invite there menstruation back. The increased circulation also helps to strengthen and balance the uterus. In rat studies it has been show to help build the uterus lining.

Dong Quai also has a relaxing effect on both the uterus and the nervous system. This can be helpful in situations such as PMS and cramping during your period. It’s relaxing effects are just as powerful as well known herbs lavender, chamomile, or valerian root.

When NOT to Use Dong Quai

While Dong Quai is considered safe for most people, there are some instances this herb should not be used.

Not for use during menstruation or pregnancy. Dong quai should not be used by those with diarrhea, hemorrhagic diseases, or excessive menstrual flow. If you are using any anti-coagulant or blood thinning medication such as warfarin or aspirin, consult your health care professional prior to using this product. Discontinue use prior to undergoing surgical procedures.

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References:
1. Trickey, Ruth. Women’s Hormones, and The Menstrual Cycle. 2003.
2. Hirata, Janie D.; Swiersz, Lillian M.; Zell, Bonnie; Small, Rebecca; Ettinger, Bruce. Does Dong Quai Have Estrogenic Effects in Postmenopausal Women? A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey. 53(5):295-296, May 1998.
3. Lan-Fang Huang, Bo-Yan Li, Yi-Zeng, Liang Fang-Qiu Guo, and Ya-Li Wang. Application of combined approach to analyze the constituents of essential oil from Dong quai. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry Volume 378, Number 2 / January, 2004.

{ 61 comments… read them below or add one }

1 erica October 22, 2009

Is it okay to drink dong quai tea while taking royal jelly, maca, coq10 an dL Argenine?

2 Dalene October 22, 2009

Hi Erica,

Yes it is safe to drink Dong Quai Tea with those supplements.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

3 Gia December 8, 2009

If you have the liquid herb.How many drops should you use to start off? Also how many times a day?

4 Hethir Rodriguez, MH, CMT December 9, 2009

Follow the instructions on the product that you purchased. Each product is different so follow the manufacturers recommendations.

5 anna December 12, 2009

Hi I am from Poland so forgive me my mistakes. I bought dong Quai an i have question is it okay to dring donq quai if I have endometriozise.?

6 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula December 14, 2009

Hi Anna,

Yes it is safe to take Dong Quai if you have endometriosis. Dong Quai is traditionally used for situations of stagnation (PCOS, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and fibroids) as it has been shown to increase blood flow to the reproductive system reducing congestion and pain. Dong Quai is one of the many herbs in our Women’s Best Friend Herbal Blend which is part of our EndoWise Kit for women with endometriosis.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

7 Jennifer February 6, 2010

I’ve been on birth control for 7 years. I’ve stopped taking it 6 months ago and my body has exploded with acne (face, chest, neck and back). I also have extreme dry eye and haven’t been able to wear contacts for more than a year. I track my body temperature and cervical fluid (the fertility awareness method) even though I’m not trying to get pregnant. I’m just trying to figure out what my body is doing now that it’s off the pill. I’ve had a few cycles where I did ovulate (I could tell from my temps, luteal phase and cervical fluid) but I’ve also had extremely long cycles lasting 100+ days with just spotting. My gynecologist was absolutely NO help. I feel completely lost and know I just need to get things regulated again. Would dong quai be okay to try or do I need to do the whole cleanse? ANY help would be greatly appreciated. I’m 26.

8 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula February 7, 2010

Hi Jennifer,

It is extremely difficult to answer your question without knowing even more about you. Many of our readers know they want to try natural therapies to help boost their fertility but don’t know which ones are best for their personal situation.

If you are someone who has questions about what natural fertility therapies may be right for you the Natural Fertility Consultation is for you.

The herb Vitex has been shown to improve acne and normalize ovulation over time.

I get similar questions all the time from women coming off of birth control. Birth Control often contains synthetic hormones or hormones from mare urine. Our livers have to filter these hormones daily and can become overloaded with them. Fertility Cleansing may help with this hormonal overload. The Fertility Cleanse may also help to cleanse the uterus of old stagnant blood and tissues which are not being naturally cleansed each month due to your lack of menstruation.

Lifestyle and Diet changes are very helpful as well. Eating a whole food Natural Fertility Diet and exercising 30 minutes a day 5 times a week may also greatly improve your fertility.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

9 Rose February 18, 2010

Hi, I have been trying to concieve for almost one year. It’s been hard because I have not had a period in about 4 months. I feel fine. I was reading about the Don Quai and Vitex. Can they be taken together. Or do you recommend one over the other. Is the fertility cleanse also a good idea? I saw how you start to take if after your period. Any suggestions. Thank you!

10 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula February 19, 2010

Hi Rose,

Dong Quai and Vitex may be taken at the same time.

The Fertility Cleanse Kit may create a balanced healthy foundation for hormonal balance which is important when it comes to getting your menstrual cycle to normalize.

Have you considered a Natural Fertility Consultation? Learn more by clicking here: consultation

Best Wishes,

Dalene

11 jlyna February 23, 2010

what is a different if we take dong quai capsule, tea or the root itself?which one is better?the dong quai capsule itself, is it mix with some other ingredient?

12 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula February 24, 2010

Hi Jlyna,

Dong Quai Capsules or tincture are the most effective and have the highest potency. Our Fertilica Dong Quai contains no fillers.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

13 Taryn S. March 1, 2010

hi,
i have not had a period in almost 8 years unless it was brought on by the medicines my doctor gave me or infertiliy. I have PCOS (and it sucks cuz i am only 24). my husband and i have been trying to get pregnant for almost three years with no success. i have tried all the regimens from the doctors and none worked so no i am trying herbs. i am currently taking vitex and red clover daily and licorice root like you would clomid. i was wondering if it is ok to take dong quai with these and if so how much could/should i take and when
thanks sooo much! :)

14 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula March 2, 2010

Hi Taryn S.,

Red Clover and Licorice root have been found to increase estrogen. Through our studies we have found that usually PCOS is an estrogen dominant condition and that usually estrogen needs to be decreased and progesterone increased. The most important piece to PCOS is eating a PCOS specific diet due to the fact that women who suffer from PCOS usually have insulin resistance. The PCOS Diet helps to balance insulin ups and downs.

Without knowing more about your health history and lifestyle it is hard to say if Dong Quai would be a good choice for you or not.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

15 Jessica March 3, 2010

Hi, Me and my husband have been trying to conceive for 4 years I just purchased dong quai in the liquid form and was wondering what part of the menstrual cycle should i take it and should i continue to take it till the first day of bleeding of my menstrual cycle? Thank you so much for all your help. Oh and also can you take dong quai with green tea? Thanks again,

16 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula March 4, 2010

Hi Jessica,

Dong Quai may be taken all month long except during menstruation. Yes, it is fine to use at the same time as Green Tea.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

17 Colleen March 5, 2010

Hello,

Me and my husband are trying to conceive the last 3 months and I just started taking Dong Quai. I’ve read online that it is unsafe if your pregnant. I planned on taking it every month up until my period until we get pregnant. My concern is, is it still safe to take from ovulation up to you period?
I’m also taking prenatal vitamins along with dha, selenim, zinc, b6, and fertiltyblend supplement. Are these all ok to take together?

Thanks for any feedback and your help

18 vindia March 7, 2010

hi…
i have a very irregullar menstruation. which product that good for me to regular my menstruation??

19 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula March 9, 2010

Hi Colleen,

Dong Quai should not be taken during pregnancy, if after you ovulate you suspect you may be pregnant please stop taking it. It is still safe to continue after you ovulate and it is more beneficial with this herb to take it all month long than to start and stop it throughout the month. Use your best judgement.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

20 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula March 9, 2010

Hi Vindia,

We have a wonderful guide to help you learn the best natural remedies for working toward bringing back a regular menstrual cycle. If you would like to learn what you can do click here: How to Get your Period Back

Best Wishes,

Dalene

21 els March 18, 2010

hi Dalene,

I have several fibroids inside the muscle layer, inside of my uterus and have had uterusembolisation for that.
My uterus decreased with 35% in three months(it was 14,c5 x 14,5cm). Because we want to get pregnant( I am 38) they were carefull. 1,5 fibroid still get’s blood because the veins are still open.
We are using don quai now, together with L sunteanine and muco care. What do you think of this combination?
Do you have any suggestions to improve my firtillity, and do you think don quai can still help to decrease my fibroids, although I have had embolisation?

My periods are much better, but since i use don quai for about a month now i found black tissue, and lots of black (old) blood.. Is that because of Don quai.?

thanks a lot for your answere we pray for having children..
Els
the Netherlands

22 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula March 19, 2010

Hi Els,

I want to begin by saying that I am not a medical doctor and not very familiar with this procedure. I do have a concern with using Dong Quai while using embolization. Dong Quai has a slight blood thinning property, increases blood flow and may improve red blood cell counts, because of this I am not sure that this herb is a good choice for someone with an embolization. An embolization to uterine fibroids is working toward cutting off blood flow to the fibroids. Please let your doctor know you are taking this herb.

I am not sure about the black blood, please also talk to your doctor about this. I am not familiar with L-sunteanine or muco care. Please contact the manufacturer of those products.

Have you read about our FibroWise Remedy Kit and what natural remedies we find may be best for this condition? If you would like to learn more click here: Uternine Fibroids

Best Wishes,

Dalene

23 els March 19, 2010

Hi Dalene,

Thx for your quick answere. These products came from an advice from an herbalsist.
She knew about the embolisation, and we would stimulate to clean the uterus and ovaries, and maybe reduce 1 fibroid which’s vain is still open as it wasn’t embolized. The rest of the vains to the fibroids were succesfully closed. So they will never open again.
So i am wondering if any natural product is still able to do anything. I suppose not, for blood circulisation has been cut.,and the natural products wont’t reach any fibroid. What do you think?
My doctor said he doesn’t know anything about herbal treatments. In any case i’ve noticed a lot more black blood, which i assume is a good result of cleaning with donq quai the uterus. Can don quai reach to the ovaries to clean them up as well? In any case i’ve used it for a month, and i’ve stopped using it now, just to be sure.As donq quai balance the hormones as well, i thought it could prevent new fibroids from groing?
Do you think your recomandation will work with my situation, mentioned in “Uterine Fibroids”?

24 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula March 22, 2010

Hi Els,

Self Fertility Massage, Castor Oil Packs, Zymessence, Progesterone Cream, DIM (to balance progesterone/estrogen) and the Women’s Best Friend may still help. The massage and Castor oil packs will help greatly and is something you can do at home inexpensively. The Zymessence, progesterone, DIM and WBF may help to reduce the ones you have now and may prevent new ones from forming.

Dong Quai works by promoting blood flow to the pelvis where it will stimulate an absent or scanty period. It also nourishes the blood (it is in nearly all Chinese herbal blood-building formulas). Treats iron deficiency and anemia. One of the best uses is it helps women who are not menstruating to invite there menstruation back. The increased circulation also helps to strengthen and balance the uterus. In rat studies it has been show to help build the uterus lining.

Dong Quai also has a relaxing effect on both the uterus and the nervous system. This can be helpful in situations such as PMS and cramping during your period. It’s relaxing effects are just as powerful as well known herbs lavender, chamomile, or valerian root. It is traditionally used for situations of stagnation (PCOS, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and fibroids) as it increases the blood flow to the reproductive system reducing congestion and pain.

All the best,

Dalene

25 Natalie Staples April 22, 2010

Can you take Vitex, Dong Quai and Maca all at the same time? Or is this overdoing it.

26 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula April 22, 2010

Hi Natalie,

Because I know nothing about your fertility challenges I cannot say if taking all 3 of these herbs is “overdoing it” in your personal situation. These 3 may be combined safely.

All the best,

Dalene

27 Natalie Staples April 23, 2010

Oops apologies, I pressed submit without saying that it’s for Lack of menstration and hormone balancing due to PCOS. Was just wondering if taking all 3 is a bit much, or that it wouldnt do any harm. And that all 3 together would just help my chances in getting my period back, ovulating and then hopefully falling pregnant.

28 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula April 23, 2010

Hi Natalie,

As I said before, all 3 may be safely combined. Whether they will help you specifically to become pregnant…there is no way for me to know that. Studies show that these 3 may help to get your period back.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

29 Lee April 26, 2010

Hi Dalene,
I had a miscarriage in Jan 2010. Have had previous mc’s. Doc says all ok, but the fertilized egg does not find its way to the implantation stage I have decided to go the natural way, and I have seen improvements all round, now know exactly when I ovulate ect……. I think I might be pregnant, very early though.. My question is :- Can I still take vitex, donq quai, also was supposed to start wild yam after ovulation, but put it off for some reason, but now dont know if I must take it or not… I started using Dong Quai , because read that it helps women who have auto-immune diseases(with implantation of embryo).. I have rheumatoid arthritis, which is in remission..My concern is that if I stop Dong Quai, maybe it would have helped with implantation of fertilized egg…???… Please can u help.
Kind regards
Lee K

30 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula April 27, 2010

Hi Lee,

I understand your concern about stopping the Dong Quai due to implantation concerns. This herb may help by increasing circulation, helping to strengthen and balance the uterus in preparation for pregnancy. This herb should not be continued into pregnancy, neither should vitex. These herbs may only be used in prepartion for pregnancy. Having a miscarriage must have been hard for you, have you read our article on working toward preventing Recurrent Miscarriages? If not you can read it at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/preventing-miscarriage

Best Wishes,

Dalene

31 Lee April 28, 2010

Thank you Dalene,
So u suggest I must discontinue the use of Vitex and Dong Quai until I am sure I am pregnant or not?…. I have been on the herbs mentioned now from end of January 2010, just after I had my miscarriage, so its been 3 months now… Is it true that if you r pregnant u cannot do the fertility massage?.. What about the castor oil packs.?… R they also only to prepare the body for pregnany ?… Sorry for all these questions and thank you in advance for your kind response and time.
Regards
Lee

32 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula April 29, 2010

Hi Lee,

Perhaps I misunderstood your question. Dong Quai and Vitex are traditionally used in preparation for pregnancy, but should not be continued into pregnancy. Self Fertility Massage as well as the Castor Oil Packs may only be used in preparation for pregnancy as well.

All the best,

Dalene

33 melisa May 2, 2010

hi there,
i was reading your messages-& i have a question….as i am about to start taking these herbs- when you say should be stopped if you are pregnant, sometimes you wouldn’t know you were pregnant until the 6th wk- so if you were taking the herbs up until the 6th wk- can this hurt the fetus? or should you continue until you get a positive pregnancy test?
my question….can taking these herbs during implantation stage & the technical first few weeks of a fetus hurt the fetus?
thanks!

34 Hethir Rodriguez, MH, CMT May 3, 2010

Melisa,
Generally herbalists suggest to stop the herbs once you get a positive pregnancy test. It also depends on which herbs you are speaking of. Most herbs are not used during pregnancy only because they have not been tested for safety during pregnancy. A lot of the fertility herbs that are traditionally used are on the milder side and can safely be stopped once a positive pregnancy is discovered.

35 Natalie Staples May 4, 2010

I would like to know, if one is taking Clomid, what herbs can you take with it to increase your chances? Would these be some of the herbs you can take –
Red Clover, Dong Quai , Macca, Rasberry leaf, Wild Yam and in what quanitites and when?

Thanks very much.

36 Hethir Rodriguez, MH, CMT May 5, 2010

The only herb that we have seen studies on improving clomid chances is tribulus. You can read more here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/tribulus-fertility.html

We generally do not recommend using hormonal effecting herbs in addition to fertility/hormonal medications as we do not know how they will interact. Tribulus is the only one that has been studied. BUT you may want to use a mind+body approach and try a program like Circle+Bloom along with your meds for great benefits without worry.

37 christina May 6, 2010

Hi
there I was wondering if taking dong quai gives you real period or a fake period that works like the birth control pills ? also does it make you ovulate because i have pcos

38 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula May 7, 2010

Hi Christina,

Herbs like Dong Quai works with your body to tonify and strengthen the uterus by regulating hormonal control, improving uterine tone, and improving the timing of the menstrual cycle.

Dong Quai works by promoting blood flow to the pelvis where it will stimulate an absent or scanty period. It also nourishes the blood (it is in nearly all Chinese herbal blood-building formulas). Treats iron deficiency and anemia. One of the best uses is it helps women who are not menstruating to invite there menstruation back. The increased circulation also helps to strengthen and balance the uterus. In rat studies it has been show to help build the uterus lining

Because herbs work with your body, not for your body you will not be having a “fake” period. Medications like birth control contain synthetic hormones that go to receptor cites in your body and “trick” it into thinking and functioning a certain way, the way it was designed in a lab to control your menstrual cycle and ovulation.

Dong Quai may help you to ovulate if you have not had a period in long time, by nourishing your blood and because it may regulate hormonal control.

You may be interested in learning about Fertility Cleansing and the herb Vitex as well. You may also want to learn about how eating a PCOS specific diet may help you get your period back.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

.

39 CeCe May 21, 2010

Hi,

I had a miscarriage in October, only have one fallopean tube, and have had painful cysts on my ovaries recently and feel as though I have had cysts on my ovaries in the past. I am 29 and hoping to concieve, I recently started taking Dong Quai in a supplement form that also includes cramp bark, false unicorn root, and blue cohosh root. I have also started drinking a tea that includes rasb leaf, alfalfa, spearmint, rose petals, chaste tree berry, dandelion leaf, and some others.

I read that the chaste berry could cancel out the dong quai, is this accurate? Any other information you may have would be very welcome, thank you.

40 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula May 24, 2010

Hi Cece,

In our experience Vitex and Dong Quai compliment eachother. Our Fertilica Vitex combines the two. In fact many of our herbal blends for women combine those two herbs.

The two blends you are taking sound nice. The blend with the cramp bark may be helpful wiht pain you are experiencing, but these may not be helping you reduce or dissolve the cysts. You may be interested in reading our article on Ovarian Cysts at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/ovarian-cyst-remedy

It is difficult for us to answer your questions based on just a small piece of the bigger picture of your health. It is helpful for us to know your lifestyle, health history, fertility challenges and detailed questions. That is why we offer Natural Fertility Consultations, you may want to consider this option. Learn more about our consultations at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/natural-fertility-email-consultations

Best wishes,

Dalene

41 Jaci May 24, 2010

I am not ovulating. Is there a certain herbal supplement that you recommend trying? I tried Clomid for 3 months and then Femara 1 time. Neither one causing me to ovulate. I’ve heard things about Maca and Vitex. And also some teas. What do you suggest? We recently took a break from drs and medicine to see what happens. We have not seen a fertility specialist just yet, if we’re not pregnant by fall we’ve considered it. Thank you.

42 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula May 27, 2010

Hi Jaci,

Vitex is specific for promoting ovulation and normalizing it. Vitex may take many cycles of use to be effective (6-12). Maca is a nourishing food for the endocrine system, aiding both the pituitary, adrenal, and thyroid glands (all involved in hormonal balance.) Maca helps to stimulate and nourish the pituitary gland, acting as a tonic for the hormone system. When the pituitary gland functions optimally, the entire endocrine system becomes balanced, because the pituitary gland controls the hormone output of the other three glands.

Without knowing more about you and your unique situation there is no way for me to say which natural remedies may be best for your particular situation. It is helpful to know your health history, lifestyle, diet, ect. You may want to learn about our Naural Fertility Consultations at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/natural-fertility-email-consultations

A consultation may help you by helping you to learn about herbs, therapies and supplements that may be right for your fertility challenges.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

43 Breen July 5, 2010

I am totally confused. I would like to try Dong Quai for treatment of uterine fibriods yet the aforementioned text recommends using this herb to ease cramping during your period but then further states that it should not be taken during menstruation. Does anyone know if this herb is okay to take during your period or not?

See actual text below:

“Dong Quai also has a relaxing effect on both the uterus and the nervous system. This can be helpful in situations such as PMS and cramping during your period. It’s relaxing effects are just as powerful as well known herbs lavender, chamomile, or valerian root.
When NOT to Use Dong Quai

While Dong Quai is considered safe for most people, there are some instances this herb should not be used.

Not for use during menstruation or pregnancy. Dong quai should not be used by those with diarrhea, hemorrhagic diseases, or excessive menstrual flow.”

44 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula July 6, 2010

Hi Breen,

Thank you for pointing this out, this is confusing and we will edit this page.

If you have a heavy period it is best to not use it during your period. An herb such as crampbark would be better for cramping. If you have cramping and a light flow then Dong Quai would be helpful for cramping and may be used. It increases circulation to the reproductive area, so if the flow is heavy it could cause it to be even heavier.

Hope this makes more sense.

Warmly,

Dalene

45 MARPSJR July 16, 2010

Two questions:

1. Can you take Dong Quai to help people with Diminished Ovarian Reserve and high FSH, as well as a previous miscarriage?

2. Can you take herbs like Dong Quai, Maca and Vitex in between cycles of taking clomid. I took clomid this month for a mild IVF which has now been cancelled and will take clomid again next month to try again for a mild IVF. Was wondering if in-between taking these herbs may help things.

Thanks so much.

46 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula July 19, 2010

Hi MARPSJR,

1. For diminished ovarian reserve you may want to learn about Self Fertility Massage, Maca, L-Arginine. Vitex increases luteinizing hormone production while mildly inhibiting the release of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). This indirectly boosts progesterone production and chances of achieving and maintaining a successful pregnancy.

You may also want to consider a Natural Fertility Consultation.

2. Research has shown these herbs are most effective when taken consistently over time. Using them sporadically may not be effective. These herbs should not be use while on fertility medications. Even if you take them between clomid cycles they may not be effective or may confuse your body. It can be stressful for your body to be responding to these herbs and then all of a sudden switching to medications.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

47 Lily July 28, 2010

Hi,

I stopped taking contraceptives 14 months ago (took them for 1 year because I was diagnosed with micropolicyctic ovaries and wanted to prepare my body to conceive. Before that I usually had 30 to 50 days cycles. Once in a while I had a longer cycle as well). After stopping contraceptives my cycles went wild and I got my period 3 times in a period of 10 months. I visited the doctor and was diagnosed with PCOS (was never diagnosed with the syndrome before, so I don’t know if I always had it. Never had problems like heavy/painful menstruation, pms, weight problems etc. The only problems I had was irregular cycles and periods of acne. Generally I don’t have any other health problem/issue). The doctor suggested that I take progesterone for 10 days at the end of my (hypothetical) cycle (I have been taking it every 40 days) to provoke menstruation. At the same time I have been charting my cycle temperatures for 4 months and and I noticed that I am not ovulating. My periods were never very heavy (4-5 days of medium flow) but now they seem a bit lighter (2-3 days of medium bleeding and some days of spotting).

I decided to start taking agnus castus in an attempt to naturally regulate my cycle and ovulate in order to conceive. I wanted to ask if you think that dong quai could also help me or should I just take agnus castus? I am thinking of starting to take 1 x 250mg capsule of dong quai 3 times a day. Do you think this could be a good dose for me (I have a small built)? Is there anything else that you could suggest for my case (I think I have given you all my history)?

Thank you in advance for your answer,

Lily

48 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula July 29, 2010

Hi Lily,

I am not sure that I quite understand, are you still taking progesterone prescribed by your doctor? Is the progesterone a prescription medication or a natural cream? If you are taking a progesterone medication Vitex nor Dong Quai should not be taken at the same time. While you have given me great information about yourself this website is intended for informational purposes only. There is no way for me to suggest a dosage for you. If you are concerned that even the suggested dosage on the product you purchased may not be quite right for you due to your size, please seek the advice of your local naturopathic doctor or herbalist.

You may also want to consider a Natural Fertility Consultation.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

49 kelly August 7, 2010

Hi
On one of your pages it states to use burdock for low progesterone, i have located this in my health store, can you explain why good and if i can take with maca and vitex and also if can take in pregnancy as i am miscarrying due to low progesterone
thanks

50 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula August 11, 2010

Hi Kelly,

It would help the liver with detoxification which helps with hormonal metabolism. Burdock may be helpful in cleansing the liver and is usually blended with other herbs like dandelion and peppermint for taste. Hethir is working on the Fertility Herbs page, as information needs to be updated, we feel that Burdock is not the best herb for low progesterone.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

51 Marianna Burmenko August 18, 2010

Hi,

I just started taking the Dong Quai Tea yesterday, along with fertile fields teapills. Would this help me get pregnant faster? and is it ok to take both at the same time? We have been trying to get pregnant for 8 months. I also tried acupuncture yesterday. Please let me know, thank you!

52 mallory August 19, 2010

hi,
i am slightly underweight and i have not gotten my period now for about 5 or 6 months. i am trying to gain a little weight, but i dont want to gain much. i just found and was reading about Dong Quai online and am thinking about using it to try to get my period back and with some regularity. i was wondering, though, will i have to take 2 pills three times a day each month, or if i stop after a month or two will i likely still get my period then the months after? i just dont like the idea of having to take so many pills forever just to have my period.
thank you,
mallory

53 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula August 19, 2010

Dear Marianna,

Dong Quai tea is not going to be effective as the whole herb in a capsule or a tincture extraction because Donq Quai is a root. Roots usally need to be double boiled to be able to extract medicinal properties. As for Fertile Fields teapills, this is not our product and I have never heard of it so I cannot comment. The goal of using natural remedies for preparing for conception is to create a balanced healthy body, which may help conception happen, but they are not to get pregnant quicker.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

54 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula August 19, 2010

Dear Mallory,

Great Question. The idea is to help bring your body back into balance using herbs to help your body’s natural processes when appropriate. We do not want to become dependent on them to make our bodies say “have a period”. So it may best to use them consistently for a few months (in general) and the wean off of them to see how our bodies do on their own. Most times they help give our bodies the extra support they need at the time and then our bodies should be able to function properly on their own. With some more complicated cases this may not be true and herbs may be needed long term. It is best to see a Naturopathic Doctor or Herbalist to get an exact dosage that is just right for your body when dealing with complicated issues.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

55 Paola August 21, 2010

Hi! Ive always had irregular periods even skipping them completly for months. This my period was due in august 14,but it didnt come. I read in a website that taking don quai helps you to get regular in menstruating so i took the pill form, my friend told me that i shoul take 2 pills every 4 hours, so i did. I only took it 3 times. I took it in the evening like at six then at 10 then went to bed and took it like at 10 am. After that my husband tol me what if we are pregnant ? I took a test and it was positive. Im scared of how rg don quai could of harmed my baby can you help me ? What are the risk?

56 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula August 24, 2010

Dear Paola,

Taking advice from a friend may seem like a good idea at the time, but taking any herb every four hours on a suggestion from a friend is not adviseable. The biggest risk from taking this much Dong Quai while pregnant would be possible miscarriage, but if you are not taking it any more you should be fine. If you are concerned please see your doctor.

Best Wishes and congratulations on your good news!

Dalene

57 Kelly August 25, 2010

Hi
Great website!
I am taking co q 10 and high strength fish oils on the lead up to conception in my next cycle, by then i will have taken the above for 90 days, do i stop co q10 100mg at ovulation and carry on with fish oils and pre natal?
I have had 2 missed miscarriages and have decided to take maca and vitex in first trimester after lots of research. Can you advise me pls on co q 10 and fish oils
Thanks

58 tabs August 26, 2010

Hi Heither,

I used dong quai and vitex last month with follic acid , i used to take 1 capsule of each every morning, this month my mensuartion was delayed for about 17 days that concerned me really ! i had some yellow discharge when i was supposed to have my periods, i thought it as my priods and stopped taking vitex and dongquai, but then it delayed to 17 days which is not the case for me ,most of the time, i get it every month after 28-30 days only twice i had it delayed for 10 days but this time 17 days . i had uterine polyps twice dat was operated about 3 months ago and few follicles were seen on my ovaries , i suffer from infertility and also had high prolactin levels , thats why i started to take dong quai and vitex but now i dont know what to do.

Thanks,
Tabs

59 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula August 27, 2010

Hi Kelly,

CoQ10 is fine to take throughout the month and may safely be combined with fish oil and prenatal vitamins.

Best Wishes,

Dalene

60 Dalene Barton, CH, Doula August 27, 2010

Hi tabs,

The first few menstrual cycles after beginning Vitex and/or Dong Quai may be irregular as your body adjusts to hormonal shifting as it is working to normalize itself. These herbs work best used consistently for many months. Stopping and starting them here and there makes it hard to see if they will work for you or not.

Warmly,

Dalene

61 tabs August 27, 2010

Hello Delane,

Thankyou very much for the info , okay i will not stop taking them , will take it regularly from now onwards.

Regards,
Tabs

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