Angelica sinensis, commonly known as dong quai (當歸), or female ginseng, is an herb grown on high altitude mountains in China, Japan, and Korea. It is often used in traditional Chinese medicine to nourish the blood and is particularly valued for its effectiveness in helping women.

What is Dang Gui (当归)?

Dang Gui, also known as Angelica sinensis or “Chinese Angelica Root,” is a traditional Chinese herbal ingredient commonly used in soups, teas, and classical herbal preparations.

It is one of the most well-known herbs in Chinese herbal traditions and is often included in everyday wellness cooking.

Quick Overview

• Chinese name: 当归 (Dang Gui)
• Botanical name: Angelica sinensis
• Part used: Root
• Taste profile: Slightly sweet, earthy, mildly bitter
• Common uses: Soups, herbal teas, traditional formulas

What does Dang Gui taste like?

Dang Gui has a distinct herbal aroma with a balance of:

• mild sweetness
• earthy depth
• slight bitterness

When cooked in soups, it adds a rich, warming, and aromatic flavor that blends well with ingredients like red dates and goji berries.

How is Dang Gui commonly used?

Dang Gui is most often used in food-based preparations, making it approachable even for beginners.

1. Herbal soups

A popular way to use Dang Gui is in traditional Chinese soups.

Common pairings include:

• red dates (jujube)
• goji berries
• chicken or pork

These soups are typically slow-simmered to extract flavor.

2. Herbal teas

Dang Gui can be sliced and steeped with other ingredients to create a mild herbal tea.

3. Traditional herbal formulas

Dang Gui is also used in classical herbal combinations, where it is prepared and balanced with other ingredients.

What is the difference between raw and prepared Dang Gui?

There are two common forms:

• Raw Dang Gui (生当归)
  • More natural, unprocessed
  • Often used in soups and general applications
• Prepared Dang Gui (熟当归 / 酒当归)
  • Processed (often with wine)
  • Has a slightly deeper aroma and flavor

The choice depends on the intended use and preparation style.

What ingredients go well with Dang Gui?

Dang Gui is often combined with:

• red dates (jujube)
• goji berries
• ginger
• chicken or pork

These combinations are commonly used in home-style cooking.

How do you prepare Dang Gui?

Basic preparation steps:

1. Rinse lightly to remove surface debris
2. Add to soup or tea
3. Simmer for 30–90 minutes depending on recipe

Who typically uses Dang Gui?

Dang Gui is commonly used by:

• people familiar with Chinese cooking
• individuals preparing traditional soups
• those exploring herbal ingredients in food

Is Dang Gui the same as Angelica root?

Dang Gui refers specifically to Angelica sinensis, which is different from other types of Angelica used in Western herbal traditions.

Where can you buy Dang Gui?

Dang Gui is available at Chinese herbal stores and specialty shops that carry traditional herbal ingredients.

Khan Hing Tong offers a range of Dang Gui products, including different grades and preparation types, with guidance available for selecting suitable options.

Important note

Dang Gui is a traditional herbal ingredient.
It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

For personalized guidance, consult a qualified healthcare professional.