Danggui Shaoyao San

Danggui Shaoyao San is a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescription first recorded in the “Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber” (circa 3rd century AD). It is a multi-herb formula traditionally used to treat gynecological disorders such as menstrual irregularities and abdominal pain. The formula contains six main herbs: Angelica sinensis (Danggui), Paeonia lactiflora (Baishao), Poria cocos (Fuling), Atractylodes macrocephala (Baizhu), Alisma orientalis (Zexie), and Ligusticum chuanxiong (Chuanxiong)[3][9]. Modern research has shown that Danggui Shaoyao San exhibits antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, cognitive-enhancing, antidepressant effects[1][3][8], as well as analgesic properties through inhibition of neuronal and microglial activation[1][4]. It has been studied for potential benefits in Alzheimer’s disease by modulating estrogen levels[3], regulating gut microbiota via the gut-brain axis[8], improving neurogenesis after ischemic brain injury[3], alleviating pain including orthodontic pain[1][4], treating anemia and ovulatory disorders[9], promoting hormonal balance in women with ovarian dysfunction or luteal insufficiency[6]. Its mechanisms are believed to be multicomponent/multitarget—modulating inflammation pathways, oxidative stress responses, estrogen production/regulation,[3][6] immune modulation via microglia inhibition,[1] antioxidant activity,[9] platelet aggregation inhibition,[9] regulation of hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis,[8] among others.

Other names

Tang Kuei and Peony FormulaDong Quai and Peony PowderTangkuei and Peony Powder