Botanical Overview
Angelica archangelica, commonly known as Angelica, Garden angelica, or Wild celery, is a tall biennial plant of the Apiaceae family. Native to northern and central Europe including Scandinavia and parts of northern Asia, it is prized for its aromatic root, seeds, leaves, and stems utilized in herbal medicine.
Energetics
The herb is considered warming and drying in energetic qualities. It carries predominantly bitter, pungent, and aromatic tastes, with ascending and outward directionality. Angelica is tonifying and supports the qi in traditional energetics.
Primary Actions
- Carminative
- Diaphoretic
- Expectorant
- Stomachic
- Spasmolytic
Indications
Western
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Cold and flu symptoms
- Cough with mucus
- Menstrual cramps
- Nervousness
Syndromes
- Dyspepsia
- Respiratory congestion
- Flatulent colic
- Menstrual discomfort
TCM
Not documented.
Ayurveda
Not documented.
Unani
Not documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Angelica archangelica contains furanocoumarins, essential and volatile oils, coumarins, and flavonoids, which contribute to its aromatic, carminative, spasmolytic, and expectorant effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion of dried root: 2-4 g, 2-3 times daily
- Tincture (1:5 in 40% ethanol): 2-5 mL, 2-3 times daily
- Essential oil: used externally in diluted form
Safety & Contraindications
Angelica may cause photosensitivity due to furanocoumarins and should be avoided in pregnancy because of potential uterine stimulant properties. Caution is advised when combining with anticoagulant drugs or other photosensitizing agents. Avoid excessive sun exposure during use.
Astrological Correspondences
Planetary ruler: Mercury; Elemental ruler: Air. These correspondences are drawn from traditional European herbalism and astrological herbal traditions.
Selected References
- Monograph on Angelica archangelica L., radix (Phytotherapy Commission of BfArM, 2011)
- Angelica archangelica L. (PFAF Database)
- ESCOP Monographs: The Scientific Foundation for Herbal Medicinal Products, 2nd Edition (2003)
- The Chemistry of Angelica Species (Van der Kooy & Verpoorte, 2011)
- The Complete Herbal (Nicholas Culpeper, 1653)