Angelica Dahurica / Bai Zhi

【Benefits】

In traditional Chinese medicine, Angelica dahurica (Bai Zhi, Taiwan Angelica Root) is renowned for its effects of relieving exterior syndrome and dispelling cold, dispelling wind to relieve pain, unblocking nasal orifices, drying dampness to stop leukorrhea, and reducing swelling to expel pus. It effectively alleviates symptoms like wind-cold exterior syndrome-induced headache and stuffy nose, pain caused by wind-damp obstruction (e.g., migraine, toothache, joint pain), nasal congestion and runny nose from rhinitis, excessive leukorrhea due to dampness stagnation, and carbuncles and furuncles. From a modern research perspective, it contains bioactive components such as volatile oils (imperatorin, isoimperatorin), coumarins, and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, and nasal decongestant effects, helping to relieve pain and inflammatory discomfort.

【Nicknames】

Fragrant Bai Zhi, Chuan Bai Zhi (Sichuan Bai Zhi), Hang Bai Zhi (Zhejiang Bai Zhi), Yu Bai Zhi (Anhui Bai Zhi), Xiang Bai Zhi (Fragrant Angelica Root), Da Bai Zhi (Large Bai Zhi)

【Properties and Tastes】

Tastes pungent; warm in nature; enters the Lung, Stomach, and Large Intestine meridians

【Medicinal Components & Effects】

Angelica dahurica is rich in active components. Volatile oils (main components: imperatorin, isoimperatorin) are the key, exerting analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and nasal decongestant effects by inhibiting pain receptors and reducing mucosal congestion. Coumarins have antibacterial and antioxidant properties, inhibiting pathogenic bacteria and scavenging free radicals. Flavonoids contribute to drying dampness and relieving leukorrhea, regulating abnormal vaginal discharge. These components work together to dispel wind, relieve pain, unblock orifices, and maintain the body's respiratory and motor system health.

【Storage Methods】

• Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place (temperature 10–15℃, humidity below 60%), away from direct sunlight and high humidity to prevent mold, insect infestation, and loss of volatile oils. Its pungent volatile oils are prone to volatilization, so sealing is crucial.
• Use airtight containers like glass jars or vacuum-sealed bags. After opening, seal promptly to avoid volatilization of active components and moisture absorption.
• Avoid storing with odorous substances to prevent flavor tainting. Regularly check for mold, softening, or unusual odor—discard immediately if any spoilage is found.