Dong quai root comes from Angelica sinensis and has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over a thousand years. It is known as Dang Gui and is one of the most well-documented roots in classical Chinese herbal texts.
Traditionally, dong quai is harvested, sliced, and dried before use. It is most often prepared as a decoction and used in combination with other herbs rather than alone.
Dong quai has a strong, aromatic scent with a slightly bitter and earthy flavor. In traditional practice, it has been associated with balance and restoration.
Because of its potency and historical significance, dong quai remains one of the most widely recognized Chinese roots today.