당귀 오일 is obtained by steam distillation of the thoroughly dried roots (Radix Angelicae Sinensis) of Angelica sinensis. This yields 0.2–0.5% essential oil. The dominant bioactive constituents are Z-ligustilide (the signature marker, 30–50%), butylidene phthalide, senkyunolides, and n-butyl phthalide. Dong Quai is renowned in traditional Chinese medicine as the 'female ginseng,' used for gynecological health, blood tonification, and circulation support.
The essential oil and its phthalide constituents demonstrate antispasmodic, estrogenic-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective activities in published research. In food and nutraceutical applications it is incorporated into women's health tonics, functional teas, and herbal 음료 at typical levels of 10–100 ppm. Meets Chinese Pharmacopoeia and 식품 등급 essential oil standards. Sensitive to oxidation — store in sealed amber containers at cool temperatures.