The sweetness of Angelicae sinensis Radix (dang gui) tonifies and moistens, its acrid flavor disperses, its bitterness drains, and its warmth unblocks. These properties make it the most appropriate herb for harmonizing the blood, which means that it both invigorates and tonifies the blood, and is suitable for all blood patterns involving stasis, deficiency, dryness, or cold. When the blood is sufficient and move harmoniously, the qi will also circulate properly; the Grand Materia Medica therefore calls this an herb "for the qi within the blood." Proper movement of both qi and blood eliminates pain, expels wind, restores normal menstrual flow, assists healing, and moistens dryness. The type of dryness it particularly addresses is that in the Intestines causing constipation, as noted in the Essentials of the Materia Medica, which says that it "moistens dryness and lubricates the Intestines." Bensky: Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica.*

Dang Gui - Angelicae sinensis Radix