Angelica Root

What is Angelica Root? 

Angelica plants can get as tall as 10 feet (3 meters) and have clusters of green or yellow flowers that turn into small yellow fruits. The aromatic compounds they contain also give them a strong, unique smell. People often say that the smell is musky, earthy, or herbal.  A. sinensis is also called dong quai and female ginseng, among other names. It comes from China and other East Asian countries, where it is mostly used in traditional medicine to treat hormonal problems in women.

On the other hand, A. archangelica is often called Norwegian angelica or wild celery. This kind grows mostly in European countries, where it is used in cooking and as a herbal medicine. Even though the name "angelica root" makes it sound like only the root is used, most supplements and herbal medicines made from A. archangelica contain the root, seeds, fruits, flowers, and/or other parts of the plant. Most products made from A. sinensis only use the root of the plant.

How do I use Angelica root?

Using Angelica root to prepare a tincture or infusion is the best way to get its advantages. All you have to do is soak 1 tsp. of the dried root in 1 cup of boiling water for a whole night to make an infusion. Remove the root in the morning and make sure the tea is warm before consuming (start with a third cup at a time).

Angelica Root Benefits:

Medicine is made from the root, the seed, and the fruit. Angelica is used to treat heartburn, intestinal gas (flatulence), loss of appetite (anorexia), arthritis, circulation problems, "runny nose" (respiratory catarrh), nervousness, plague, and trouble sleeping (insomnia).

◉ Digestive: Angelica is a bitter, warming herb that clears the airways and smells pleasant. It is often used as a digestive aid and is a common ingredient in traditional aperitifs. It makes you hungry and helps with indigestion, gas, and bloating. The herb is also used to help the liver work better.

◉ Menstrual: The root helps get the blood moving, so it eases menstrual cramps by warming, relaxing, opening up the blood vessels, and getting the blood moving. It can also cause your period to be late or help with PMS. Angelica, hibiscus flower, and rose petal should be mixed together for this. Because it helps with circulation, it can also be used to treat migraines.

◉ Respiratory: Angelica makes the lungs cough up mucus, which can help asthma, cough, bronchitis, and cold or flu symptoms feel better and heal. In the past, it has also been used to treat bladder infections and rheumatism. As a hot tea that makes you sweat, it brings down fevers.

◉ Gastrointestinal: Angelica root is often used to treat stomach problems in children in German medicine. German doctors use a stomach tea made of 20% angelica root, 40% gentian root (Gentiana lutea), and 40% caraway seed (Carum carvi). Angelica root is listed in the German Drug Codex, which is a book that pharmacists use as a reference.

Where can I buy Angelica root? 

Buy Angelica root from the health food store in the USA, Alive Herbals.

Angelica Root information (at a glance):