Angelica sinensis (Danggui), renowned as the "holy herb for gynecology" in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), uniquely combines blood-nourishing and blood-activating properties. In modern times, where blood deficiency and blood stasis are common, Danggui serves as a dual-action remedy. When paired with the following six herbs, its efficacy is magnified, creating synergistic "golden combinations" for gynecological and systemic health.
1. Danggui + Chuanxiong
Mechanism: Chuanxiong, known as the "qi-moving herb in the blood", enhances Danggui’s blood-activating effects. Together, they resolve liver qi stagnation and blood stasis, addressing menstrual disorders and gynecological conditions.
Key Formula: Foshou San.
Applications:
Reduces blood viscosity, improves circulation, and prevents thrombosis.
Alleviates palpitations, chest impediment, post-stroke sequelae, migraines from blood stasis, and hemorrhagic cerebrovascular diseases.
2. Danggui + Peony Root (Sháoyào)
Mechanism: This classic pairing from Zhang Zhongjing’s Jingui Yaolue nourishes blood, regulates the liver, strengthens the spleen, and drains dampness.
Key Formula: Danggui Shaoyao San.
Applications:
Treats menstrual irregularities, edema, and abdominal pain.
Used in both gynecological and internal medicine for blood deficiency with dampness.
3. Danggui + Astragalus (Huángqí)
Mechanism: Astragalus tonifies qi, while Danggui nourishes blood, creating a powerful qi-blood dual tonic.
Key Formula: Danggui Buxue Tang.
Applications:
Addresses symptoms of qi-blood deficiency: palpitations, insomnia, pale complexion, fatigue, and spontaneous sweating.
4. Danggui + Sophora Root (Kǔshēn)
Mechanism: This duo cools blood, clears damp-heat, reduces inflammation, and relieves itching.
Key Formula: Danggui Kushen Tang.
Applications:
Treats acne, eczema, and skin ulcers caused by damp-heat and blood heat.
Effective for inflammatory and pruritic (itchy) conditions.
5. Danggui + Salvia Root
Mechanism: Salvia’s blood-stasis-resolving action synergizes with Danggui’s warming nature to unblock vessels and relieve pain.
Applications:
Manages chest pain, blood stasis, and blood deficiency with stasis.
6. Danggui + Ginseng (Rénshēn)
Mechanism: Ginseng tonifies primal qi, while Danggui guides qi into the blood, creating a potent qi-blood stabilizer.
Applications:
Critical for severe conditions like sudden hemorrhage with profuse sweating, shortness of breath, and faint pulse.
Important Note
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Consult a licensed TCM practitioner for personalized diagnosis and treatment.
By leveraging these time-tested pairings, Danggui’s versatility shines, offering targeted solutions for both gynecological and systemic health challenges. Always prioritize pattern differentiation to ensure safe and effective use.
