Research Progress on the Immunomodulatory Effects by Dang Gui (Radix Angelica sinensis) and Its Active Chemical Components

Dang Gui (Radix Angelica sinensis), a classic Chinese medicinal herb, is renowned for nourishing blood, promoting blood circulation, regulating meridians, and relieving pain, and widely used clinically for anemia, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, and other diseases. Studies have confirmed that Dang Gui and its major bioactive components (e.g., polysaccharides, ferulic acid, (Z)-ligustilide) exert diverse pharmacological activities including immunomodulation, neuroprotection, and hepatoprotection. Based on a systematic literature search, this review summarizes the traditional applications and main chemical constituents of A. sinensis, with a focused analysis of its immunomodulatory effects. Evidence shows that A. sinensis exerts bidirectional immunoregulation by improving immune organ indices, promoting the proliferation and activation of immune cells, including T/B lymphocytes (T/B cells), macrophages, and regulating cytokine secretion. Furthermore, it reviews its immunomodulatory mechanisms in immune-related diseases (e.g., cancer, aplastic anemia, chronic pain), analyzes its quality control standards from regulatory and pharmacopeial perspectives and summarizes relevant safety research. This review comprehensively integrates the immunoregulatory effects and underlying mechanisms of A. sinensis, aiming to provide a scientific basis for its future research and clinical application.