Angelica is a beautiful looking plant from the carrot family. According to a folklore it was named after an angel, who appeared to a monk with the announcement that the herb is a cure for plague. Angelica blooms on the day of Michael the Archangel (8th May). It embodies qualities of feminine strength, which makes it a lovely herb for women. It is sacred medicine to Native Americans.
One of my favourites herbs to help with the gastrointestinal problems like wind, nausea, indigestion, bloating and colic. It is very helpful in weak digestion and poor absorption by stimulating the digestive enzymes and hydrochloric acid secretion, which can be often depleted by stress. It is very warming and works well for cold constitutions. Angelica should also have a special place in the formulations aimed for treating iron deficiency disorders. It helps to increase iron, very often depleted in premenopausal women, when the menstrual bleeding can be excessive. It can help with menstrual complaints and painful periods. It also elevates mood and helps with brain fog and enhances memory and concentration- other symptoms of perimenopause.
More focus is placed on Angelica sinensis, the Chinese variation, well known for supporting hormonal disorders. Angelica archangelica is not appreciated enough, but it has just as many valuable properties and being native to West- should always be considered.
It is usually very well tolerated by most people, but some cautions need to be taken with people with peptic ulcers and acid reflux and in pregnancy. We always check for the contraindications with orthodox medications and this herb in high doses may interfere with blood thinning medications.
I use it very often when I am preparing digestive bitters.
