Chinese Angelica Tail
Chinese Angelica Tail (Dang Gui Wei): A Blood-Invigorating Herb for Circulation, Skin, and Menstrual Health
Introduction
Chinese Angelica Tail, known as Dang Gui Wei (当归尾) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is the lower root portion of the Chinese Angelica plant (Angelica sinensis). It is distinct from the main Dang Gui root because it focuses primarily on invigorating blood and dispersing stagnation rather than nourishing it. Renowned as the “activating” part of the plant, Dang Gui Wei is used to promote circulation, relieve pain from blood stasis, and support skin vitality. It is slightly warm, sweet, and pungent in nature, entering the Heart, Liver, and Spleen meridians.
What Is Chinese Angelica Tail?
Chinese Angelica Tail is the tip or “tail” of the Dang Gui root, traditionally separated for its stronger blood-moving properties. While the main Dang Gui root nourishes and tonifies blood, the tail focuses on stimulating circulation and dissolving stasis, making it ideal for conditions such as menstrual irregularities, bruising, or poor skin tone caused by sluggish blood flow.
In TCM, Dang Gui Wei is commonly combined with other blood-invigorating herbs like Chuan Xiong (Szechuan Lovage Rhizome) or Tao Ren (Peach Kernel) to enhance its effects. It is milder than harsh blood movers, making it safe for women and individuals with mild deficiency.
Health Benefits of Chinese Angelica Tail
Invigorates Blood and Disperses Stasis
Dang Gui Wei promotes smooth circulation and helps resolve stagnation in the blood, easing discomfort from menstrual cramps, bruises, or joint stiffness.
Supports Menstrual and Reproductive Health
It is widely used in formulas for delayed or painful menstruation, clots, or dark menstrual flow—conditions linked to poor blood circulation.
Enhances Skin Radiance and Repair
By improving blood flow to the skin and tissues, Dang Gui Wei helps maintain a healthy complexion and promotes wound healing and recovery after inflammation.
Relieves Pain and Swelling
Its blood-activating nature helps reduce pain from trauma, bruising, or abdominal discomfort associated with blood stagnation.
Balances Qi and Blood Dynamics
Although primarily focused on moving blood, Dang Gui Wei also assists Qi flow, helping to relieve fatigue or bloating that arises from stagnation.
How to Use Chinese Angelica Tail
In Herbal Decoctions
Boil 3–9 grams of dried Dang Gui Wei with herbs like Chuan Xiong, Hong Hua (Safflower), or Tao Ren for blood circulation and pain relief. It is often included in women’s health soups and restorative broths.
In Tonic Soups
Combine Dang Gui Wei with red dates, goji berries, and chicken or pork to create a gentle tonic that improves circulation while keeping the body balanced and warm.
In External Applications
Crushed Dang Gui Wei can be included in poultices or herbal plasters to help relieve bruising or localized swelling.
Where to Buy Chinese Angelica Tail
You can find Dang Gui Wei at the following places:
- Chinese herbal pharmacies or TCM shops
- Online herbal retailers such as iHerb, Amazon, or ChineseHerbsDirect
- Asian supermarkets that carry dried medicinal herbs
Look for:
- Clean, dry root tails with a rich brown color and strong, pleasant herbal aroma
- Organic or pesticide-free sources for best quality
- Whole tails rather than powdered forms for decoction use
Are There Any Side Effects?
Chinese Angelica Tail is generally safe when used in moderate amounts. However, it should be used with caution during pregnancy or in individuals with heavy bleeding, Yin deficiency with heat, or diarrhea caused by Spleen weakness. As with all blood-activating herbs, avoid using it during menstruation if flow is already excessive.
Conclusion
Chinese Angelica Tail (Dang Gui Wei) is a powerful yet balanced blood-invigorating herb that promotes healthy circulation, relieves stagnation, and enhances skin vitality. Whether used in soups, tonics, or herbal decoctions, it supports menstrual health, skin brightness, and the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body — a trusted ally in maintaining internal harmony and radiance.
FAQs
Can I use Chinese Angelica Tail with regular Dang Gui?
Yes. They are often combined — Dang Gui nourishes blood, while Dang Gui Wei moves it, creating a balanced effect.
Is Dang Gui Wei safe for daily use?
It is best used periodically or as part of a prescribed herbal formula for circulation support, not as a daily tonic.
Does it help with skin or hair health?
Yes. By improving blood flow and nutrient delivery, it can enhance skin glow and support healthy hair growth over time.