Dong quai has been used for its healthful properties, tonic actions, and as a spice throughout Asia for over two-thousand years. Native to high altitude regions in China and Japan, Angelica sinensis likes to grow in cool, damp soils. An important herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), dong quai root is commonly referred to as “female ginseng”. The root can be infused as tea or tinctured and is generally combined with other botanicals in herbal formulations. Dong Quai is a popular TCM remedy, traditionally used to support women's health. Dong Quai is a member of the Apiaceae family and small perennial, growing up to three feet in height. It is native to high altitude regions of China and Japan, growing best in cold, damp areas. It produces small clusters of white flowers. It is extensively cultivated for its roots, which are harvested in autumn. The Chinese phrase "dong quai" literally translates to "state of return." According to an ancient Chinese folktale, an angel appeared to a monk in a dream and told him to use dong quai to cure the plague that was ravaging the country.