[This article contains information on medicinal herbalism, read our Medical Disclaimer here.]
Botanical name: Angelica archangelica
European angelica
Folk names: Archangel, masterwork
Synonym: Angelica officinalis
Family Apiaceae
Origin
Native to Northern Europe. Is widely cultivated, especially in Northern temperate regions such as Belgium, Holland, France, Germany, Hungary, and Northern India.
Botany
Stout biennial or perennial herb that grows up to 2 meters high with a large rhizome. In addition to the European Angelica archangelica, there are wild species of Angelica that grow in North America, China and Japan that hold similar properties.
Parts used: Root, seeds, and leaf.
Best if the root of the herb used is less than 2 years old.
Historical use
Has been used for centuries as a digestive aid.
Energetics
Warming and drying.
Essential oils
Steam distilled from dry roots
Therapeutic actions
Anti-spasmodic: prevents and eases spasms and relieves cramps
Anti-microbial: resists of destroys pathogens.
Astringent: constricts, tightens, and binds tissues.
Aromatic: contains volatile (essential) oils.
Anti-inflammatory: alleviates inflammation.
Bitter: digestive enhancing.
Carminative: settles the digestive system and the expulsion of gas from the intestines
Cholagogue: increases the secretion of bile production into the small intestine.
Depurative: help to purify the blood.
Diaphoretic: promotes perspiration.
Digestive: aids in digestion.
Diuretic: increases secretion and expulsion of urine.
Emmenagogue: promotes and regulates menstruation.
Expectorant: expels mucus in the respiratory system.
Nervine: strengthens the nerves and nervous system.
Stomachic: digestive aid and tones the stomach.
Uses
Digestive system
Tonic for the digestive system, recommended for flatulence and indigestion.
Recommended for heartburn in adults and colic and gas in children.
Cardiovascular system
Angelica contains 15 compounds that act similarly to the calcium channel blockers that are prescribed for angina. As does other plants in the carrot family.
Lymphatic system
Excellent detoxifying and diuretic properties. Used in massage is improves lymphatic drainage, relieves rheumatism and Arthritis, fluid retention and cellulite.
Nervous system
Tonic effect on the nervous system. Recommended for weakness, and nervousness. Ideal for fatigue and stress-related disorders.
Respiratory system
Has expectorant properties, used for chronic bronchial asthma, sinus infections, chronic respiratory problems and coughs.
Reproductive system
Can stimulate menstruation and help with amenorrhea.
Angelica is one of the most commonly used emmenagogue herbs. It is used to stimulate the uterus and promote menstruation, as well as, to ease menstrual cramps. However, it is important to note that high doses of angelica can be toxic, and it should be used with caution. The recommended dose of angelica is 1-2 grams of dried root per day, and it should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4748402/)
Skin care
Used for fragrance ingredients in soaps, detergents, creams, lotions, and perfumes.
Psychological and metaphysical uses
Gender essence: Masculine
Planet: Sun
Element: Fire
Deity: Venus
Powers: Exorcism, protection, healing, visions
Angelica is protective. Grown in your home for protection, use in all protection and exorcism incenses. Sprinkle the oil around the corners or perimeter of the home to ward off evil. Added to a bath, angelica removes curses, hexes, and any spell that may have been cast against you.
Angelica is also used in healing incenses and mixtures.
Smoking the leaves is said to cause visions.
Safety
Consult a physician or midwife before use during pregnancy.
Excessive intake may cause photosensitivity.
Drug interactions
Currently, there is no known drug interactions with Angelica.
Application
Tincture of dried first-year root, at 1:5 ratio. Take 30-40 drops, 2 to 5 times a day.
To enhance appetite and digestion take 15 minutes before meals.
Sincerely,
Emilee Wright
A Mercurial Consciousness