Best Dong Quai Supplements for Women (2026) — Top 10 Reviewed
Dong quai has been called the “female ginseng” for centuries, earning its reputation as one of traditional Chinese medicine’s most valued herbs for women’s health. This powerful root supports hormone balance, menstrual comfort, and menopausal wellness naturally.
Finding a quality dong quai supplement means looking for the right dosage, proper extraction methods, and trusted manufacturing. Here are our top 10 picks for 2026.
| Product | Key Ingredients | Servings | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Menopause Vitamins Beadlets | Dong Quai, Black Cohosh, Red Clover, DIM | 30 | Beadlets | Best Overall |
| SOLARAY Dong Quai Root | Dong Quai 550mg | 180 | Capsules | Best Value |
| Carlyle Dong Quai | Dong Quai 1000mg | 250 | Capsules | Best Budget |
| NOW Foods Female Balance | Dong Quai, Vitex, Wild Yam, B6, Folate | 90 | Capsules | Best Hormone Formula |
| Phyto Estrogen Cream | Dong Quai, Black Cohosh, Wild Yam | 96 | Cream | Best Topical |
| PMS Support Beadlets | Dong Quai, Chasteberry, Cranberry, B6 | 30 | Beadlets | Best for PMS |
| Nature’s Answer Dong Quai | Dong Quai 1000mg, Standardized | 90 | Capsules | Best Standardized Extract |
| Complete Herbal Menopause | Dong Quai, Chaste Berry, Black Cohosh | 60 | Capsules | Best for Hot Flashes |
| BIO KRAUTER Dong Quai Drops | Dong Quai Liquid Extract | 56-day supply | Liquid | Best Liquid |
| Menopause Probiotics Gummies | Dong Quai, Ashwagandha, 10B CFU Probiotics | 60 | Gummies | Best Gummies |
1. Menopause Vitamins Beadlets with Dong Quai — Best Overall
Why it stands out: This comprehensive formula combines dong quai with multiple clinically-studied botanicals specifically targeting menopausal symptoms. The microbeadlet technology offers better absorption than standard capsules.
This formula brings together dong quai, black cohosh, red clover, chaste tree berry, and DIM (diindolylmethane) in one convenient daily dose. The combination addresses multiple aspects of hormone balance simultaneously—hot flashes, night sweats, mood support, and hormonal skin issues. DIM specifically supports healthy estrogen metabolism, helping the body process hormones more efficiently. Each serving delivers therapeutic doses of these traditional herbs in easy-to-swallow beadlets that dissolve quickly for better absorption than standard capsules or tablets.
The microbeadlet technology is a key differentiator. Unlike traditional capsules that need to break down in the stomach before releasing their contents, beadlets begin dissolving immediately, potentially improving bioavailability. This is particularly important for botanical ingredients that can be sensitive to stomach acid. The one-month supply means you’ll need to reorder regularly, but the convenience of a comprehensive formula in a single daily dose makes compliance easy.
Pros:
- Multi-ingredient formula targets multiple symptoms simultaneously
- Microbeadlet technology improves absorption and bioavailability
- Includes DIM for healthy estrogen metabolism support
- Non-GMO, made in USA with quality ingredients
Cons:
- Premium price point compared to single-ingredient options
- Only 30-day supply per bottle
Best for: Women seeking comprehensive menopausal support from one supplement without juggling multiple bottles.
2. SOLARAY Dong Quai Root 550mg — Best Value
Why it stands out: SOLARAY uses whole dong quai root rather than extracts, ensuring you get the full spectrum of beneficial compounds. With 180 capsules per bottle at just one per day, this offers excellent long-term value from a brand with 50 years of herbal expertise.
SOLARAY has been making herbal supplements since 1973, and their dong quai reflects decades of expertise. They use the whole root, which preserves the natural balance of active compounds including ligustilide, ferulic acid, and various polysaccharides. Some herbalists prefer whole root preparations over extracts, believing the natural synergy of compounds works better than isolated constituents. The vegan capsules contain no fillers—just pure dong quai root in a vegetable cellulose shell.
Manufacturing occurs in SOLARAY’s own facility in Utah, where they can maintain direct quality control over the entire production process. Each batch is lab-verified for purity, potency, and identity to ensure you’re getting authentic Angelica sinensis rather than cheaper substitutes. At one capsule daily, the 180-count bottle provides a full six-month supply—outstanding value compared to products requiring 2-3 capsules per day. This makes SOLARAY an excellent choice for women who want to establish a long-term dong quai regimen without frequent reordering.
Pros:
- Whole root preserves full spectrum of natural compounds
- 6-month supply in one bottle offers exceptional value
- Vegan and non-GMO with no fillers
- Lab-verified by trusted brand with 50+ year track record
Cons:
- Lower dose (550mg) may require doubling up for some users seeking higher potency
- No standardization to specific active compounds
Best for: Women wanting a pure, single-ingredient dong quai from a trusted manufacturer at great long-term value.
3. Carlyle Dong Quai 1000mg — Best Budget
Why it stands out: At 250 capsules of 1000mg each, Carlyle delivers one of the best price-per-serving ratios on the market without sacrificing quality. Their 4:1 extract means each capsule delivers potency equivalent to 4000mg of raw herb.
Carlyle has built a reputation for high-quality supplements at accessible prices, backed by their family-owned heritage dating back to 1971. Their dong quai uses a 4:1 concentrated extract, meaning each 1000mg capsule delivers the potency equivalent to 4000mg of raw dong quai root. This concentration method uses water or alcohol extraction to capture the key active compounds while allowing for a reasonable capsule size that’s easy to swallow.
The quick-release capsules ensure fast absorption, and the formula is free from gluten, soy, wheat, lactose, yeast, and artificial ingredients. While the capsules are gelatin-based (not suitable for vegans), this keeps the cost down and gelatin capsules typically dissolve faster than vegetable alternatives. With over 8 months of supply at the standard one-capsule-daily dose, this represents exceptional value for women who’ve already determined dong quai works for them and want to stock up affordably.
Pros:
- 4:1 concentrated extract for maximum potency per capsule
- Over 8-month supply at standard daily dose
- Non-GMO and gluten-free with no artificial ingredients
- Excellent price point for high-potency formula
Cons:
- Gelatin capsules not suitable for vegans or vegetarians
- No standardization to specific active compound percentages
Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers who want high-potency dong quai and don’t require vegetarian capsules.
4. NOW Foods Female Balance — Best Hormone Formula
Why it stands out: Rather than dong quai alone, this formula strategically combines it with wild yam, vitex, black cohosh, and essential B vitamins to support the entire hormonal system. NOW Foods’ GMP certification ensures pharmaceutical-grade quality.
NOW Foods designed this formula based on how these herbs traditionally work together in women’s health. Dong quai supports blood flow and uterine health, while vitex (chasteberry) helps regulate the pituitary gland’s hormone signals. Wild yam provides natural precursors for hormone production, and black cohosh targets hot flashes specifically. The addition of vitamin B6 and folate supports overall hormone metabolism and energy production.
Pros:
- Synergistic blend of proven women’s herbs
- Includes essential B vitamins
- Vegetarian/vegan capsules
- GMP-certified facility
Cons:
- Should not be used during the first week of menstruation
Best for: Women wanting comprehensive hormonal support beyond just dong quai.
5. Phyto Estrogen Cream with Dong Quai — Best Topical
Why it stands out: This transdermal cream delivers dong quai and other phytoestrogens directly through the skin, bypassing the digestive system for potentially better absorption and targeted relief.
Topical application offers unique advantages for women who have difficulty with oral supplements or want localized support. This cream combines dong quai with wild yam, black cohosh, and red clover in a moisturizing base enriched with lavender. The 4oz pump bottle provides 96 servings, making application easy and consistent. It’s designed to be applied to thin-skinned areas like the inner arms, neck, or chest for optimal absorption.
Pros:
- Alternative delivery method for those with digestive issues
- Doubles as a moisturizer
- Progesterone and estrogen-free
- Paraben-free and vegan
Cons:
- Requires consistent daily application to thin-skinned areas
Best for: Women who prefer topical supplements or have difficulty swallowing capsules.
6. PMS Support Beadlets with Dong Quai — Best for PMS
Why it stands out: This targeted formula combines dong quai with chasteberry (vitex), cranberry, and vitamin B6—ingredients specifically researched for premenstrual symptom relief including hormonal acne, cramps, and mood swings.
Chasteberry is one of the most studied herbs for PMS, and combining it with dong quai amplifies the hormone-balancing effects. Vitamin B6 supports neurotransmitter production, which can help with mood-related PMS symptoms. The microbeadlet delivery system provides faster absorption than traditional capsules. One daily serving makes compliance easy during the hectic days before your period when you need support most.
Pros:
- Targeted formula for PMS symptoms
- Includes vitamin B6 for mood support
- Fast-absorbing microbeadlets
- Non-GMO and convenient once-daily dosing
Cons:
- Only 30-day supply per bottle
Best for: Women primarily seeking relief from monthly PMS symptoms.
7. Nature’s Answer Dong Quai 1000mg — Best Standardized Extract
Why it stands out: Nature’s Answer standardizes their dong quai to 1% ligustilide, the key active compound, ensuring consistent potency in every capsule. Their Advanced Botanical Fingerprint Technology verifies identity and quality.
Standardization matters with herbal supplements because the concentration of active compounds can vary significantly between batches. Nature’s Answer has invested in technology that creates a unique botanical fingerprint for dong quai, then tests every batch against it. This ensures you’re getting genuine, high-quality dong quai with consistent levels of the compounds that make it effective. Their FDA-registered facility follows pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing standards.
Pros:
- Standardized to 1% ligustilide for consistent potency
- Vegan and kosher certified
- FDA-registered manufacturing facility
- Botanical fingerprint verification
Cons:
- Requires taking 2 capsules three times daily for full dose
Best for: Women who want guaranteed, consistent potency in every capsule.
8. Complete Herbal Menopause Supplement — Best for Hot Flashes
Why it stands out: This formula was specifically designed for menopausal symptoms, combining dong quai with black cohosh and chaste berry—three herbs with traditional use for hot flash relief.
Hot flashes and night sweats can significantly impact quality of life during menopause. This formula addresses them from multiple angles. Black cohosh has the most research behind it for hot flash reduction, while dong quai supports overall hormone balance and chaste berry helps regulate the hormonal signals that can trigger temperature dysregulation. The 60-capsule bottle provides a full two-month supply at the recommended dosage.
Pros:
- Triple-action formula targeting hot flashes specifically
- Two-month supply per bottle
- Includes herbs with research backing for temperature regulation
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Some users may need 4-6 weeks to see full effects
Best for: Menopausal women whose primary concern is hot flashes and night sweats.
9. BIO KRAUTER Dong Quai Liquid Drops — Best Liquid
Why it stands out: Liquid extracts offer faster absorption than capsules and allow for flexible dosing. This organic, alcohol-free tincture provides 56 days of supply with easy dropper application and no artificial ingredients.
Some women find liquid supplements easier to absorb, especially if they have digestive issues that can interfere with capsule breakdown. BIO KRAUTER uses an alcohol-free extraction process that preserves the active compounds while making the product suitable for those avoiding alcohol for health or religious reasons. The glycerin-based formula has a milder taste than alcohol tinctures, though dong quai’s natural celery-like flavor still comes through.
The dropper bottle makes it easy to add to water, juice, or tea, and the dose can be adjusted based on individual needs. This flexibility is valuable during different phases of your cycle or as you find your optimal dose. The 4oz bottle provides approximately 56 days of supply at the recommended dosage. BIO KRAUTER focuses exclusively on botanical supplements and sources their dong quai from reputable growers, ensuring quality raw materials.
Pros:
- Faster absorption than capsules for quicker onset
- Alcohol-free and sugar-free suitable for various dietary needs
- Vegan formula with no artificial ingredients
- Adjustable dosing with calibrated dropper
Cons:
- Strong herbal taste may be off-putting to some users
- More expensive per-day than capsule options
Best for: Women who prefer liquid supplements, need faster absorption, or have difficulty with capsule digestion.
10. Menopause Probiotics Gummies with Dong Quai — Best Gummies
Why it stands out: These innovative gummies combine dong quai with 10 billion CFU of probiotics plus ashwagandha and black cohosh, addressing both menopausal symptoms and gut health in a tasty, sugar-free format that feels like a treat.
Research increasingly connects gut health to hormone balance, as the gut microbiome plays a role in metabolizing estrogen and other hormones. This makes the combination of dong quai with probiotics particularly clever and forward-thinking. The 10 billion CFU probiotic blend supports healthy digestion and may improve absorption of the herbal ingredients while supporting the estrobolome—the collection of gut bacteria that metabolize estrogens.
Ashwagandha adds adaptogenic support for stress and cortisol management, which can indirectly affect hormone balance, while black cohosh targets hot flashes specifically. The gummy format eliminates the need to swallow large capsules and makes taking your daily supplement something to actually look forward to. These are sugar-free, using alternative sweeteners to keep carbs low while maintaining a pleasant taste. The unique formula addresses menopause from multiple angles—herbs, adaptogens, and gut health.
Pros:
- Innovative combination of hormone support with probiotics
- Sugar-free gummy format tastes good and is easy to take
- Includes ashwagandha for stress and cortisol support
- 10 billion CFU probiotics support gut-hormone connection
Cons:
- Lower dong quai dose compared to capsule options
- Probiotics require careful storage away from heat
Best for: Women who dislike swallowing pills and want combined hormone, stress, and gut health support in one product.
What is Dong Quai and Who Should Take It?
Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is a perennial plant native to the high mountains of China, Japan, and Korea, where it has been used in traditional medicine for over 2,000 years. Known as “dang gui” in Chinese, the name translates to “restore proper order”—reflecting its traditional role in balancing the body’s systems. The root contains several active compounds, including ligustilide, ferulic acid, polysaccharides, and coumarins, which are believed to support blood circulation and may have mild estrogenic effects on the body.
Women typically use dong quai to support menstrual health, ease menopausal symptoms, and promote overall hormonal balance. It may be particularly helpful for those experiencing irregular periods, menstrual cramps, PMS symptoms like bloating and mood changes, hot flashes, night sweats, or general hormone-related discomfort. Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners often refer to dong quai as the “female ginseng” and typically combine it with other herbs like peony, rehmannia, and ligusticum in formulas customized to individual needs. While most commonly associated with women’s health, dong quai is also used traditionally to support cardiovascular health and blood quality in both genders.
How to Choose the Right Dong Quai Supplement
Key Ingredients to Look For
Pure dong quai supplements should contain Angelica sinensis root, either as whole root powder or a concentrated extract. Look for products standardized to ligustilide content (typically 1%) for consistent potency—this is the primary active compound responsible for dong quai’s therapeutic effects. Effective doses range from 500mg to 2000mg daily, with concentrated extracts (4:1 or 10:1) delivering more potency per capsule. A 4:1 extract means 250mg of extract equals approximately 1000mg of raw herb.
Many formulas combine dong quai with complementary herbs for enhanced effects. Black cohosh pairs well for hot flash relief, vitex (chasteberry) supports pituitary gland function and hormone regulation, and wild yam provides precursors for hormone production. Maca root adds energy and libido support, while red clover contributes additional phytoestrogens. Formulas with vitamin B6 and folate provide extra support for hormone metabolism and energy.
Forms Compared
Capsules offer precise dosing and convenience, making them the most popular choice. They’re easy to travel with and have no taste, though absorption depends on digestive function. Tablets are similar but may contain more binders and take longer to break down. Liquid tinctures absorb faster and allow flexible dosing but may have a strong, celery-like taste that some find unpleasant. They’re ideal for those with digestive issues or who have difficulty swallowing pills.
Topical creams provide localized delivery and bypass digestion entirely, making them good for women with sensitive stomachs. However, absorption rates can vary based on skin type and application technique. Gummies taste pleasant and are easy to take but typically contain lower doses and may include added sugars or artificial ingredients. They’re best for those who absolutely cannot swallow pills. Microbeadlets represent newer technology offering improved absorption over standard capsules through faster dissolution.
What to Avoid
Skip products with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives that add nothing to effectiveness and may cause reactions. Avoid supplements that don’t disclose the exact amount of dong quai per serving or hide doses in “proprietary blends.” Be cautious of products making exaggerated health claims like “cures menopause” or “guaranteed results,” as these often indicate poor quality or questionable ethics. Extremely cheap products may use inferior herb quality or insufficient amounts.
Check that the manufacturer follows GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) and ideally third-party tests for purity and potency. Certifications from NSF, USP, or ConsumerLab provide additional assurance. For standardized extracts, ensure the label specifies what compound it’s standardized to and at what percentage. Avoid dong quai products that also contain stimulants or unrelated ingredients that have no synergy with hormone support.
Side Effects and Precautions
Common side effects are generally mild and may include digestive upset, bloating, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Taking dong quai with food usually minimizes stomach discomfort. Some women report headaches, especially when first starting supplementation—reducing the dose and gradually increasing often resolves this. The photosensitivity effect is well-documented, meaning dong quai can make your skin more susceptible to sunburn. Use extra sun protection while taking dong quai, especially at higher doses, and limit time in direct sunlight or tanning beds.
Dong quai should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential effects on uterine contractions—it has traditionally been used to stimulate menstruation and could theoretically affect pregnancy. Breastfeeding women should also avoid it since safety hasn’t been established. Women with hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids should consult their doctor before use, as dong quai may have estrogen-like effects that could worsen these conditions.
Because dong quai may slow blood clotting, discontinue use at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery. Avoid combining it with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, heparin, aspirin, or clopidogrel without medical guidance, as the effects may compound and increase bleeding risk. Similarly, be cautious combining dong quai with other supplements that affect clotting like fish oil, ginkgo, or high-dose vitamin E. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting dong quai, especially if you take prescription medications or have any chronic health conditions.
FAQs
How much dong quai should I take daily?
Typical doses range from 500mg to 2000mg of dong quai root daily, divided into 2-3 doses. Concentrated extracts (like 4:1) require lower amounts—a 250mg extract equals about 1000mg of whole root. Start with the lower end of the dosage range and increase gradually.
When is the best time to take dong quai?
Most practitioners recommend taking dong quai with meals to improve absorption and reduce potential stomach upset. For menstrual support, some women take it only during the non-bleeding weeks of their cycle, stopping during menstruation, as dong quai may increase blood flow.
How long until I see results from dong quai?
Most women notice initial effects within 2-4 weeks, but full benefits often take 2-3 months of consistent use. Cycle-related symptoms may improve within the first menstrual cycle, while menopausal symptoms like hot flashes typically require 6-8 weeks of regular supplementation.
Can I take dong quai with other supplements?
Dong quai is often combined with black cohosh, vitex, wild yam, and maca root for enhanced hormone support. However, avoid combining it with blood-thinning supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, or ginkgo without medical guidance, as the effects may stack.
Is dong quai safe to take long-term?
While dong quai has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, most Western practitioners recommend cycling it—taking it for 2-3 months, then taking a break for 2-4 weeks. Long-term continuous use hasn’t been well-studied, so periodic breaks are prudent.
Can men take dong quai supplements?
Yes, dong quai is used by some men for cardiovascular support and circulation, though it’s primarily marketed to women. A 2010 clinical study found it helped reduce hot flashes in men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer. Men should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Final Verdict
For most women seeking comprehensive menopausal support, the Menopause Vitamins Beadlets offers the best overall value with its multi-ingredient formula and advanced delivery system. If you prefer a pure, single-ingredient supplement, SOLARAY Dong Quai Root delivers whole-root quality at an excellent price point.
Women primarily dealing with PMS symptoms should consider the PMS Support Beadlets for its targeted formula, while those who dislike capsules can opt for the Menopause Probiotics Gummies or BIO KRAUTER Liquid Drops. For the most budget-friendly high-potency option, Carlyle Dong Quai provides exceptional value with its concentrated 4:1 extract.
