Scientific Name/Common Name: Angelica Archangelica/Angelica
Part(s) Used: Root
Constituents/Active Ingredients: Approximately 0.35-1.9% essential oil comprising 80-90% monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes like beta bisabolene, bisabolol, and beta caryophyllene. Over 20 furanocoumarins, coumarins, psoralens, phenol-carboxylic acids, the flavonone archangelenone, sitosterol, fatty acids, tannins, and polysaccharides.
Overview: Angelica has many medicinal virtues and was considered such powerful medicine by the ancients that they named it after the angels. More than 50 species of Angelica grow around the world, and each different variety is recognized for its healing powers. Angelica is said by some herbalists to be 'ginseng' for women and is recommended by many as a daily beauty tonic, to prevent hormonal imbalances and treat menstrual difficulties (Amenorrhea). The German Pharmacopoeia recognizes angelica root as a source of bitters and aromatics that stimulate gastric and pancreatic secretions. The root is recommended to stimulate appetite and treat dyspepsia, mild stomach cramps, bloating, and flatulence.
Traditional Use/Benefits/Body Systems: Traditionally used as a gentle digestive tonic, anti-spasmodic, expectorant, and to improve circulation. Helps relieve bronchial illness, coughs, and colds as well as sluggish digestion with gas and bloating.
Clinical Studies/Scientific Research/References:
Blumenthal M, Busse W, Goldberg A, Gruenwald J, Hall T, Riggins C, Rister R, editors. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Austin (TX): American Botanical Council; 1998.
Hoffmann D. 2003. Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester (VT): Healing Arts Press.
Duke, J. 1997: The Green Pharmacy, The Ultimate Compendium of Natural Remedies from the World's Foremost Authority on Healing and Herbs. pp. 53; 55-56; 146; 290-91; 299-300; 335; 453-454. Rodale Press. Schar D. 1993.
Disclaimer: This information in our Herbal Encyclopedia is intended only as a general reference for educational purposes. It is not a replacement for medical advice. This content does not provide dosage information, cautions/contraindications, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Please consult any relevant product labels for detailed information on use and with a medical practitioner for individual health advice.
