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Angelica

Latin Name: Angelica archangelica

Herb Class/Action:

Parts of the Plant Used:

Flavors:

Energetics:

Medicinal Properties:

Digestive Health: Angelica is traditionally used to aid digestion, relieve gas, and reduce bloating. It is often included in herbal formulations to support overall digestive health and alleviate symptoms of indigestion.
Respiratory Support: As an expectorant, Angelica helps to clear mucus and congestion from the respiratory tract, making it beneficial for conditions such as bronchitis and colds.
Menstrual Relief: Angelica has antispasmodic properties, which can help to relieve menstrual cramps and discomfort.
Circulatory Health: The diaphoretic action of Angelica promotes sweating, which can be useful in breaking fevers and detoxifying the body. It also supports healthy blood circulation.
Nervous System: Traditionally, Angelica is believed to have calming and grounding effects on the nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial: Angelica is known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it useful for treating infections and reducing inflammation in various parts of the body.

In the Garden:

Growing Conditions: Angelica prefers a cool, moist environment with well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in partial shade but can also tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The plant can grow quite tall, reaching up to 6 feet, and is biennial, meaning it typically flowers in its second year and then dies.
Planting: Sow seeds directly in the garden in the fall or early spring. Seeds need cold stratification to germinate, so it's often beneficial to plant them in the fall and allow them to overwinter. Space plants about 2-3 feet apart to accommodate their large size.
Care: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Angelica doesn't require much fertilization if planted in rich soil.
Companion Planting: Angelica can be a good companion plant for attracting beneficial insects such as pollinators and predatory insects that help control pests.

Culinary Uses:

Stalks and Leaves: The young stalks and leaves of Angelica can be used in cooking. They are often candied and used as a decoration for cakes and pastries. Fresh leaves can be added to salads or used as a flavoring in stews and soups.
Seeds: Angelica seeds are aromatic and can be used as a spice in baking and cooking. They are also used to flavor liqueurs and spirits, such as gin and Chartreuse.
Roots: The roots can be used as a vegetable, similar to parsnips, or as a flavoring agent in various dishes. They have a sweet, earthy taste and are often used to make herbal teas or tinctures.
Candied Angelica: One of the most famous culinary uses of Angelica is to candy the stalks, which are then used as a decorative and flavorful element in desserts.

Precautions:

Photosensitivity: Angelica contains furanocoumarins, compounds that can cause the skin to become sensitive to sunlight. This can result in photodermatitis, a skin reaction to sunlight. It's advisable to wear gloves when handling the plant and avoid excessive sun exposure after use.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Angelica is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it can stimulate uterine contractions. It should also be used with caution by breastfeeding mothers.
Diabetes: Angelica may affect blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes should use it under medical supervision.
Interaction with Medications: Angelica can interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants (blood thinners) and medications for high blood pressure. Consult a healthcare provider before using Angelica if you are on medication.
Allergies: As with any herb, some individuals may be allergic to Angelica. Discontinue use if any allergic reactions occur, such as rash, itching, or swelling.

BONTANICAL GLOSSARY