For several thousand years, Dong quai has been an essential herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Popularly known as the “female ginseng,” it is one of the most popular herbs in China. It has been well-researched and is typically used to support the menstrual cycle and relieve menstrual pain. Compounds contained in dong quai have demonstrated an ability to both relax and stimulate the uterus, dilate blood vessels and reduce pain. It contains ferulic acid, which is the element responsible for reducing pain and relaxing muscles. These compounds may be responsible for dong quai’s ability to relieve the discomforts of PMS. It gently helps to restore regularity to the cycles after stopping birth control pill use. Dong quai can be used by both men and women to help support normal blood pressure levels due to its ability to dilate blood vessels and relax smooth muscles. It can also help to open larger blood vessels and is an antispasmodic.