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Is Dong Quai safe and helpful?

Page last modified on: October 2, 2008
Question from Riverpal: I was specifically instructed by my surgeon NOT to take Chinese herbs. I have been taking and enjoying Dong Quai, [pronounced "dong kwaiy"] although I have not told him. Are there in fact some herbs that are safe and helpful (Stage III breast cancer, both ductile and lobular)?
Answer —Raymond Chang, M.D.: Dong Quai (Angelica) and such herbs are thought to be estrogenic. I would recommend if the patient is ER positive or PR positive that they should not take herbs such as Dong Quai.

On Wednesday, September 21, 2005, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Traditional Chinese MedicineRaymond Chang, M.D. and moderator Beth Baughman Dupree, M.D., F.A.C.S. answered your questions about how to discuss Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with your cancer doctor.


The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Raymond Chang, M.D. is an internationally respected physician-acupuncturist uniquely trained in traditional Chinese medicine as well as contemporary Western medicine, and he is an acknowledged pioneer-specialist in integrative programs for cancer, infertility, and other difficult-to-treat conditions.

Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S.Beth Baughman DuPree, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a general surgeon. Her clinical practice is located at Holy Redeemer Hospital and St. Mary Medical Center.

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