Gynaecomastia and the Herbal Tonic 'Dong Quai'

SY Goh, KC Loh
Correspondence: Dr Loh Keh Chuan

ABSTRACT
We present a case of a man who developed gynaecomastia after ingestion of "Dong Quai" pills. "Dong Quai" is the Chinese name for the herb Angelica polymorpha var. sinensis which is widely used as a panacea for gynaecological problems, and it is also proclaimed as an invigorating tonic for both women and men. The pharmacological effects of "Dong Quai" are likely related to the phytoestrogen that it contains. This report highlights the potential adverse effects associated with its consumption in the male, especially for the processed "Dong Quai" pills which may contain significantly higher levels of phytoestrogen than its original herbal product.

Keywords: Angelica sinensis, “Dong Quai”, gynaecomastia, phytoestrogens
Singapore Med J 2001; 42(3): 115-116