Angelica, Official

Angelica

Angelica archangelica

Botanical Family: Apiaceae (Carrot family)

Botanical Description

Angelica archangelica is a stately biennial or short-lived perennial growing 1-2.5 meters tall. The thick, hollow stems are often purplish at the base. Large, compound leaves (up to 60cm) have toothed leaflets with a distinctive aromatic scent. In the second year, impressive spherical umbels of greenish-white flowers appear, followed by winged seeds. The entire plant is powerfully aromatic with a sweet, musky, slightly bitter fragrance.

Medicinal Actions

Primary actions: Carminative, bitter tonic, expectorant, diaphoretic, antimicrobial, circulatory stimulant, emmenagogue.

Traditional uses: Known as the “Root of the Holy Ghost” in medieval Europe, angelica was considered protective against plague and evil. In Nordic countries, it has been used medicinally and as food for over 1,000 years. The root is the primary medicinal part, warming and stimulating digestion and circulation.

Modern applications: Used to support digestive function, ease bloating and gas, and as a warming remedy for cold conditions. Also valued for respiratory support.

Body Systems Affected

Digestive: Stimulates digestive secretions; eases bloating, gas, and sluggish digestion.

Respiratory: Expectorant action supports clearing of mucus; traditionally used for coughs and colds.

Circulatory: Warming herb that stimulates peripheral circulation.

Reproductive: Traditional emmenagogue (promotes menstrual flow).

Safety Information

⚠️ CAUTION – IDENTIFICATION: Angelica resembles deadly poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) and water hemlock (Cicuta species). Only use plants you have grown yourself or that have been positively identified by an expert.

Pregnancy: CONTRAINDICATED during pregnancy due to emmenagogue effects.

Photosensitivity: Contains furanocoumarins that may cause skin sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid direct sun exposure after topical application.

Drug interactions: May interact with anticoagulant medications. Use with caution if diabetic.

Growing Guide

Hardiness: Zones 4-8. Prefers cool, moist climates.

Light: Partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, afternoon shade is beneficial.

Soil: Rich, moist, slightly acidic soil. Thrives near water.

Sowing: Seeds require cold stratification and light for germination. Sow fresh seed in autumn or stratify for 6-8 weeks before spring sowing. Seeds lose viability quickly – use fresh seed.

Spacing: 60cm apart. Plants are large and need room.

Harvesting

Root: Harvest in autumn of the first year or spring of the second year, before flowering. The root deteriorates after the plant flowers.

Leaves: Harvest young leaves in spring for culinary use.

Stems: Cut young stems in late spring for candying.

Seeds: Collect when ripe but before they drop.

Drying & Storage

Roots should be cleaned, sliced, and dried quickly in a warm, well-ventilated area or dehydrator at 40°C (104°F). Properly dried root is greyish-brown and aromatic. Store in airtight containers away from light. Root maintains potency for 1-2 years. Seeds can be dried and stored similarly.