A member of the family Apiaceae (Umbellifera), it is commonly known as dong quai or "female ginseng," and is common in traditional Chinese medicine. It commonly prescribed by traditional herbalists for gynocological ailments such as premenstrual syndrome, or for treating the side effcts of menopause. However it is not recomended for use during pregnancy and is believed to increase chances of miscarriage and there are concerns about other adverse health effects it may have.
It is an antioxident.