The herbal and health information provided in this Web Site is intended as historical information only. The historical uses are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nothing listed within this Web Site should be considered as medical advice for dealing with a given problem. You should consult your health care professional for individual guidance for specific health problems. Persons with serious medical conditions should always seek professional care.
Angelica, from the plant Angelica archangelica, is similar to the Chinese herb Dong Quai, which is derived from the closely related plant Angelica sinensis. Other species of Angelica are commonly used as flavoring agents for wines, liqueurs, and perfumes.
Angelica has recently become a very popular herb in the United States, and is often recommended by herbalists as a treatment for flatulence and stomach pains, and as a stimulant to invigorate circulation and warm the body. By far, the most common use of Angelica is as an emmenagogue or as agent to promote menstrual flow and help regulate irregular menstrual cycles. In some cases, large doses of Angelica have been consumed in an attempt to induce abortion, but such use runs the risk of also inducing severe poisoning.
Angelica contains a number of compounds called 'furocoumarins' that are photosensitizers, which upon direct contact with the skin may lead to a skin rash after being exposed to the sun. Researchers have also found several of these compounds to be extremely toxic carcinogens in laboratory animals, though no human studies are currently available.
Angelica should not be used by pregnant women or diabetics, as it has a tendency to elevate blood sugar levels.
(This herbal ingredient can be purchased from Viable Herbal Solutions in powdered and capsule form as part of our Single Herb sales program.)
