{"id":11133,"date":"2024-01-10T20:22:12","date_gmt":"2024-01-10T20:22:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/?post_type=herb&p=11133"},"modified":"2025-04-09T16:35:34","modified_gmt":"2025-04-09T15:35:34","slug":"angelica","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/angelica\/","title":{"rendered":"Angelica"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":11140,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"7af900c2-02b3-4431-8916-057b7ae8494b","beyondwords_preview_token":"3b0e682c-a234-4f77-9f1e-468fa4f15caa","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[1660],"conditions":[694,685,699,698,695,697],"sustainability":[1576],"sense":[17,18,16,30,27],"western_action":[993,989,990,992,996,997,1000,1001,1003,1007,1009,1010,1017,1021],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[],"energetics_action":[],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-11133","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-sialogogue","conditions-cardiovascular-system","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-musculoskeletal-system","conditions-reproductive-system","conditions-respiratory-system","conditions-urinary-system","sustainability-green-sustainability-status","sense-aromatic","sense-bitter","sense-hot","sense-sharp","sense-sweet","western_action-antimicrobial","western_action-alterative","western_action-analgesic","western_action-anti-inflammatory","western_action-antirheumatic","western_action-antispasmodic","western_action-astringent","western_action-bitter","western_action-carminatives","western_action-diaphoretic","western_action-emmenagogue","western_action-expectorant","western_action-nervine","western_action-stomachic","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20240110","herb_author":null,"banner_text":"Angelica is a plant used for the digestive and reproductive systems","latin_name":"Angelica archangelica<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Apiaceae","herb_summary":"As a warming, aromatic circulatory tonic angelica has many health benefits. Angelica is often used in herbal medicine to support digestion and for menstrual problems. It also has blood-purifying actions and helps to clear congestion in the respiratory, lymphatic and digestive systems.","key_benefits":"Digestive complaints\r\nWarming expectorant\r\nUterine pain\r\nBlood purifying \r\nAntibacterial\r\nUrinary antiseptic","how_does_it_feel":"Angelica has a powerful aromatic flavour profile that is followed by mild bitterness. Both the tincture and the tea of angelica possess sweet and slightly sour qualities. Angelica is a sialagogue, which means that it stimulates the production of saliva. This effect can be experienced quickly upon tasting and reflects its action to stimulate the digestive fluids further down the gastrointestinal tract.<\/span>","hdif_image_1":11140,"hdif_image_2":11134,"hdif_image_3":11136,"hdif_video":"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=IF_ycWPwu3Q","sense":[17,18,16,30,27],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"[caption id=\"attachment_11134\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Angelica Angelica plant (Angelica archangelica<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nAngelica is one of the best herbs to call upon for complaints in the digestive system, particularly when it comes to<\/span> dyspeptic complaints, sluggish digestion, flatulence and gastrointestinal spasms (1, 3, 14). The combined effect of its bitters and volatile oils as well as its relaxant action upon the smooth muscle allow angelica to settle irritation in the <\/span>digestive system<\/span><\/a> including where there is colic and bloating. It can also be used to stimulate the appetite and promote digestion (1,12).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAngelica\u2019s warming, aromatic qualities stimulate the circulation which directly impacts the lymphatic system to clear dampness and congestion from the tissues. This action can be useful in clearing excess mucus in colds, flus and <\/span>cough<\/span><\/a>s. Angelica invigorates the blood and soothes menstrual irregularities via this same action (2). It is a smooth muscle relaxant which can also help with menstrual pain and to promote healthy menstruation. For menstrual problems, angelica works well with <\/span>cramp bark<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>calendula<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>ginger<\/span><\/a>.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAngelica\u2019s volatile oil content and resulting antimicrobial actions may be beneficial in maintaining health following infections, e.g. urinary tract infections (2). Like many plants that thrive in the damp, it is useful for gardener\u2019s aches and pains that get worse in the cold, damp months of autumn and winter (<\/span>meadowsweet<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>white <\/span>willow<\/span><\/a> bark are two other herbs to consider for damp inflammatory conditions in the muscolskeletal system) (2).<\/span>\r\n\r\nLike other members of the carrot family, angelica contains compounds called furanocoumarins that can cause light-sensitivity following exposure of sensitive skin to sunlight. Care should be taken when harvesting (2). Long term internal and external use of angelica may also lead to photosensitivity (1).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a warm poultice or compress, angelica may be applied to the chest for coughs or respiratory congestion, to the lower abdomen for menstrual pains or to aching joints to bring circulation and warmth (14).<\/span>","into_the_heart_of":"[caption id=\"attachment_11136\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Angelica Angelica seed bud (Angelica archangelica<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nAngelica has oily, warming and nourishing qualities, yet is also drying due to its expectorant (clearing mucous and congestion) actions. It is stimulating via a diffusive, aromatic action to promote movement of the fluids out of congested systems throughout the body including in the blood, lymph, respiratory or stagnations in other body tissues, angelica directly drains dampness or stagnant energy via this stimulating action (11).<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) angelica is used to balance the yin, awaken the appetite, invigorate the spleen, stomach, and intestines. It is also well applied to dispel damp mucous conditions. It is one of the primary herbs for all conditions classified by yin excess, such as cold, damp, and phlegm congestion in the lungs, intestines, and uterus (4).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAngelicas invigorating properties may also help to both enhance and relax the mind. It was used as a journeying medicine in ancient times and in many cultures it is revered as a sacred herb that opens the imagination (11). Many herbalists regard this herb as one for psycho-spiritual healing due to its specific protective and opening effect on the heart, mind and higher centres (13).\u00a0\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nAs a warming aromatic herb, angelica is best applied for cold and depressive tissues states (14). The aromatic oils in angelica elicit a stimulating and energising effect. Fragrant plants like angelica are used to clear putrefaction and remove stagnation (11). They are specific for \u2018depressive\u2019 states - this refers to both depressiveness or under function of the tissues but also depressiveness of the mind (10). By the same means, angelica may be applied for headaches and migraines that are relating to poor peripheral circulation (12,13). These diverse actions make it a herb that is useful for convalescence (10).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAngelica assists in maintaining and restoring vitality and wellbeing on multiple levels. Stableford (13) comments on the diffusive nature of angelica as used for engendering a sense of boundary, integration and control. In his book \u2018The Handbook of Energetic and Constitutional Herbal Medicine\u2019 he suggests this herb may be useful for those who have become emotionally stagnant or depressed as a result of \u2018holding on\u2019 or mental rigidity (13). Angelica has the positive potential to create liberation and movement via its upward and outward movement of blood and energy (13).<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"[caption id=\"attachment_11140\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Angelica Angelica in summer (Angelica archangelica<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nIt was in the medieval period that this plant gained its name, \u2018angelica\u2019. This was because a monk at the time was said to have been gifted a vision by archangel Micheal that it was a herb that would cure the black plague. It was therefore believed to have been brought to humans by an angel as a cure, hence the botanical name,\u00a0<\/span>Angelica archangelica <\/span><\/i>(7).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThese historical insights of the plant were not unfounded as modern science now understands this plant is of much importance as an antimicrobial due the presence of its essential oil (8).<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn the writings of Nicholas Culpepper, 1653 angelica is described as a herb that \u2018resists poison, defends and comforts the heart, blood, and spirits; treats the plague and all epidemical diseases\u2019 (9).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe candied stalks and roots of angelica were eaten to prevent infection during fasting. It has a long history of use for stomach complaints that are associated with coldness. It was primarily used to help digestion and to treat coughs (9).<\/span>\r\n\r\nCulpepper also records multiple uses for the juice of angelica; these are as drops into the eyes or ears to improve sight and deafness; as a remedy for tooth cavities and as a healing agent for ulcers. Culpepper also refers to angelica as a distilled water to ease gout, sciatica, and pain (9).<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"[caption id=\"attachment_11135\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"400\"]\"Large Large angelica plant (Angelica archangelica<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n

Reproductive system<\/h3>\r\nAngelica has both stimulating (3) and relaxing (13) effects on the uterus. This contradicting action of being able to improve the blood flow to reproductive organs yet also relax the smooth muscle via an antispasmodic action can prove highly useful in certain types of condition in the female <\/span>reproductive system<\/span><\/a> (3, 13).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThese actions may be helpful to bring on a delayed menstruation and to reduce menstrual cramping. Similarly, angelica has been used in some circumstances to help bring about labor or to encourage healthy contractions of the uterus. However, angelica should only be administered under the care and advice of a qualified professional as it is not advised for use during pregnancy. It is also sometimes used post-partum to assist with the release of the placenta (3).<\/span>\r\n\r\nDue to its antispasmodic action, angelica may also be a useful herb for the pain associated with <\/span>endometriosis<\/span><\/a> (3) and other conditions associated with congestion in the pelvic region (13).<\/span>\r\n

Respiratory system<\/h3>\r\nAngelica can be used as a warming expectorant for mild or chronic congestive conditions in the respiratory tract. A herbalist may employ angelica for its mucolytic actions where there is profuse catarrh such as in bronchitis or emphysema (10).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAngelica is specifically indicated for congestive conditions in the <\/span>respiratory system<\/span><\/a>, especially those accompanied by sluggish or under functioning digestive processes (10). These type of catarrhal presentations may be accompanied by abdominal distension, loss of appetite and loose stools; this would be a classic profile indicating angelica. As a warming expectant and stomachic medicine, angelica is best taken before meals (10).<\/span>\r\n

Digestive system<\/h3>\r\nAngelica is one of the most important carminative herbs in the Western <\/span>materia medica<\/span><\/i> via its ability to improve digestive secretions but also to help relax smooth muscle spasms (11). Due to its aromatic and bitter qualities, it relieves both the stomach and intestines of tension but also assists in better assimilation of digestive nutrients particularly with lipid metabolism (11).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAngelica can be useful for helping to overcome gastric infections with <\/span>diarrhoea<\/span><\/a> (10). Its ability to\u00a0 improve gastric acidity may help to reduce the chances of reinfection. It works best after the symptoms have been treated with herbal astringents such as <\/span>agrimony<\/span><\/a> or <\/span>raspberry leaf<\/span><\/a> as well as anti-infectives such as <\/span>ginger<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>echinacea<\/span><\/a> (10).<\/span>\r\n

Other uses<\/h3>\r\nHerbalists will often include aromatic herbs such as angelica in a formula to assist the effective circulation and deliverance of other herbs and their active constituents to the tissues where they are needed. This classification of aromatic stimulants may be described as carrier remedies as they potentiate the effects of other herbs.<\/span>\r\n\r\nThese aromatic herbs are invaluable as part of any prescription and may also find their way into medicines for cold and congestive conditions in the <\/span>muscloskeletal system<\/span><\/a> e.g. arthritis and gout, as well as for conditions affecting circulation such as classified by high or low blood pressure, headaches, cold extremities, Raynaud\u2019s syndrome, and fluid retention (11, 12).<\/span>\r\n\r\nDue to its antiseptic and antimicrobial actions angelica may also be combined with urinary tonics in the treatment of urinary tract infections and cystitis (14).<\/span>","research":"[caption id=\"attachment_11138\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Essential Essential oil of angelica (Angelica archangelica<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThere are currently no published clinical trials on angelica as used in herbal medicine. However, there are a number of in vivo\/in vitro studies that focus on a number of its compounds and extracts of angelica which demonstrate a variety of its effects. A systematic review of the available literature revealed the presence of essential oil, coumarins, acids, sugar, a bitter principle, and a peculiar resin called angelicin, triterpenes, and flavonoids in different parts of this plant (5).<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe research included mostly laboratory and in vivo studies on angelica and its bioactive compounds which demonstrated a variety of effects such as promising anti-tumor, antifungal, neurotoxic, anticonvulsants, hepatoprotective and antiulcerogenic actions. There are a lack of available human studies (5).<\/span>\r\n\r\nAnimal studies are not condoned by herbal reality, however for the purpose of including research from which some understanding of therapeutic actions can be confirmed, some animal studies have been included herein.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAnother review discusses a number of actions of angelica as identified from the available literature which include anti-anxiety, anti-convulsant, cognition enhancing and antiviral activities as well as cholinesterase inhibitory potential, anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective, and radioprotective activities (6).\u00a0<\/span>","did_you_know":"Angelica was traditionally made into a candied sweet and today is used <\/span>to flavour<\/span> French liqueurs or spirits such as Chartreuse, B\u00e9n\u00e9dictine, Vermouth, and Dubonnet. Angelica roots<\/span> are among the most common botanicals used in gin distillation along with Juniper berries.<\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":11139},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Angelica is a biennial plant that can grow up to 2.5 meters (slightly over 8 feet). The leaves are composed of numerous small leaflets organised into three primary groups, each further divided into three smaller groups. The leaflet edges are finely toothed or serrated. The stems are hairless and tend to be tinged reddish where the leaf stems join the flowering stems. Flowering occurs in July, with small and plentiful yellowish or greenish flowers grouped in large, globular umbels that yield pale yellow, oblong fruits. Seeds ripen in August and September, going from light green to brown.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nPlease note: It is extremely important to be cautious with plants in the Apiaceae (carrot) family. Poisonous hemlock and water drop-wort hemlock are members of this family which are botanically quite similar to angelica. Hemlock is usually fatal if taken. Do not attempt to forage any plants from the apiaceae family unless you are highly experienced with plant identification.<\/span><\/em>","common_names":"