Dong Quai Bleeding Risk: What You Need to Know Before Using It

When you hear Dong Quai, a traditional Chinese herb often used for menstrual and menopausal symptoms. Also known as Angelica sinensis, it’s been used for centuries to support female reproductive health. But here’s the catch: it can thin your blood—just like aspirin or warfarin. If you’re taking any medication that affects clotting, or if you’re scheduled for surgery, Dong Quai could turn a routine procedure into a serious risk.

This isn’t theoretical. There are real cases where people taking Dong Quai ended up with unexplained bruising, nosebleeds, or even dangerous bleeding during or after surgery. It doesn’t just interact with prescription blood thinners like Coumadin or Eliquis—it also mixes poorly with other herbs like ginkgo, garlic, or ginger. Even over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can make the risk worse. The problem? Most people don’t realize Dong Quai is a blood thinner until it’s too late. It’s sold as a "natural" supplement, so many assume it’s harmless. But natural doesn’t mean safe.

Who’s most at risk? Women over 50 on hormone therapy, anyone with a bleeding disorder, or people preparing for dental work or surgery. Even if you’re healthy, stopping Dong Quai at least two weeks before any medical procedure is a smart move. And if you’re already on a blood thinner, talk to your doctor before even thinking about trying it. There’s no official safe dose, and supplements aren’t regulated like drugs—so what’s in the bottle might not match the label.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides from people who’ve dealt with this exact issue. Some share how they discovered the hard way that Dong Quai caused dangerous bleeding. Others compare it to safer herbal alternatives for hormonal balance. You’ll see how it stacks up against prescription options, what symptoms to watch for, and how to talk to your pharmacist about hidden interactions. This isn’t just about avoiding side effects—it’s about making sure your health choices don’t accidentally put you in danger.