Many tales surround this herb.  Tales of its angelic nature and its pagan associations, of its healing powers and its wonderful taste, and of its potential hazards.  This herb is said to bloom every year on May 8th, the feast day of St Michael the Archangel.  Thus, its reputation as an angelic plant with the magical powers of healing and protection.  Angelica was thought to ward off evil spirits and witches.  Its juices were drunk to ward off spells and poisons.

Magical qualities or not, its many porperties and uses are real.  The medicinal use today centers on the treatment of digestive and bronchial problems.  A decoction of the root can treat indigestions, gastritis, imflammation of the intestines and flatulence. The stem can be steamed and eaten like asparagus, the leaves brewed into a fine tea that aids digestion, the oil of the root can be added to a bath for relaxation.  Angelica is used for loss of appetite, to promote circulation and to warm the body (particularly for those who often have chilly hands and feet).  Applied externally, it can ease rheuatic pains, stomach cramps and muscle spasms.

Angelica is a plant, not a tree, that can grow as high as eight feet.  European angelica is a biennial or perennial herb native to northern and eastern Europe and parts of Asia.  Angelica has been used for centuries in European medicine as an expectorant for bronchial illnesses, colds and coughs, and also as a digestive aid for stomach disorders. By the fifteenth century it was in popular use. In the English herbal entitled Paradisus Terrestris, published in 1629 C.E. by John Parkinson, angelica was reported to be one of the most important medicinal herbs of that time.

Angelica root consists of the dried root and rhizome of A. archangelica L. The root and rhizome contain essential oil, coumarin, and coumarin derivatives. Some of its early uses are at least partially supported by in vitro studies of angelica's active coumarin and furanocoumarin constituents. One of these, angelicin, relaxes smooth muscles in vitro, including those in the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. Angelica also relaxes tracheal and vascular smooth muscles in vitro. European angelica may also increase uterine contractions, similar to the effects shown by Chinese angelica, A. sinensis (dong quai). In India, it is used to treat anorexia nervosa and flatulent dyspepsia.

Side Effects:  The furanocoumarins present in angelica root sensitize the skin to light. Subsequent exposure to UV radiation can lead to inflammation of the skin. During treatment with the drug or its preparations, prolonged sun-bathing and exposure to intense UV radiation should be avoided. Use During Pregnancy and Lactation is not recommended during pregnancy.