ANGELICA
Latin / Botanical Name:
Angelica archangelica
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 'emmanagogic' 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.