Botanical Overview
Angelica dahurica (family Apiaceae) is a medicinal plant native to East Asia, especially China, Korea, and Japan. Commonly known as Bai Zhi or Dahurian Angelica, the mature root is primarily used in traditional herbal medicine.
Energetics
The root has a warming and drying energetic profile with acrid and bitter tastes. Its actions are ascending and tonifying, primarily influencing the qi.
Primary Actions
- Analgesic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Diaphoretic
- Expectorant
- Vasodilator
Indications
Western
- Headache
- Nasal congestion
- Toothache
- Pain
- Skin infections
Syndromes
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Allergic rhinitis
- Sinusitis
- Inflammation
TCM
- Frontal headache
- Nasal discharge and congestion
- Toothache
- Abdominal pain
Syndromes
- Wind-cold exterior syndrome
- Nasal obstruction
- Wind-heat attack with pain
- Yangming channel headache
Ayurveda
No established indications documented.
Unani
No established indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Angelica dahurica contains furanocoumarins (including imperatorin, oxypeucedanin, bergapten, psoralen) and volatile oils, which contribute to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 3–10 g daily
- Powder: 1–3 g 1–2 times daily
- Tincture (1:5 in 40% alcohol): 2–5 mL 1–3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use caution due to photosensitizing potential. Avoid during pregnancy, especially due to possible uterine stimulation. Monitor for interactions with anticoagulant and photosensitizing medications. Generally safe in standard traditional doses.
Astrological Correspondences
Not established due to lack of reliable traditional sources.
Selected References
- Angelicae Dahuricae Radix (Bai Zhi), Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, Bensky, Clavey, Stöger (2004)
- Angelica Root Monograph, MedlinePlus
- Chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of Angelica dahurica, Li et al., Phytochemistry (2011)