Chinese Angelica

Ingredient Profile

Modern Research Perspective

Modern research focuses on volatile phthalides such as ligustilide, ferulic acid-related compounds, polysaccharides, and other constituents. Cell and animal studies have explored inflammatory, antioxidant, vascular, hematopoietic, neuroprotective, and gastrointestinal mechanisms, but exposure levels and extract composition often differ from clinical use.

Human research includes menstrual, pain, vascular, and other exploratory applications, yet many studies use multi-herb interventions and heterogeneous preparations. Direct evidence for a standardized single material remains limited, with unresolved questions about dose, quality standards, interactions, and long-term safety.

Traditional Function

In traditional Chinese medicine, Chinese Angelica is warm, sweet, pungent, and bitter. It is used to nourish and invigorate the blood, regulate menstruation, relieve pain, and moisten the intestines. Its use is interpreted according to blood deficiency, blood stasis, menstrual irregularity, or intestinal dryness patterns.