Angelica archangelica, commonly known as garden angelica, is a species of biennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a popular herbal remedy due to its medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
The plant is known for its sweet, aromatic scent and its tall, hollow stems. It is also a popular ornamental plant in gardens, with its white flowers and attractive foliage. Angelica archangelica has many health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and digestive properties, as well as being a good source of vitamins and minerals.
It is often used in teas, tinctures, and oils to help relieve symptoms of colds, coughs, and other illnesses. Additionally, it is known to help improve circulation and reduce stress.
Health benefits of angelica archangelica
The herb Angelica archangelica, also known as wild celery, has been used for centuries for its many medicinal properties. Seen as a ‘magical’ plant, this tall, stately plant is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The angelica root has a long history of use for medicinal purposes, being commonly prescribed for an array of ailments such as headaches, digestion, joint pains, tattoos, toothache, and dizziness.
Having a plethora of health benefits, this pungent, hollow-stemmed biennial is particularly strong in flavonoids, tannins and essential oils that provide body cleansing and stress alleviating benefits. With a variety of uses, this is an ideal herb for a variety of health problems and its application can range from topical to internal use.
For those looking to detox their bodies, angelica archangelica is a great herbal remedy. Its leaves and root can be used to make a decoction, which is a great diuretic that helps rid the body of unwanted toxins. It can also help with sore throats, laryngitis, and bronchitis.
As well as being good for the body internally, angelica archangelica is often used for its skin benefits. With anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties, it has been used to treat a range of skin conditions from eczema to reduce redness and swelling.
It’s also popular in aromatherapy and is believed to reduce stress levels and help with better sleep. To sum up, its clear that angelica archangelica is a great resource for many ailments and general good health.
Whether you’re looking to detox, improve your sleep, or soothe your skin, this incredible herb is a great option to explore. So why not add a little wild celery to your daily routine and experience the full range of its benefits.
How to grow angelica archangelica
Gardening enthusiasts like to add flavor and fragrance to their flower or vegetable gardens, so Angelica archangelica is an excellent choice. The tall, regal herb adds a unique, bold flavor to salads and other dishes and its leaves can be dried to make herbal teas. Growing Angelica archangelica can be a fun and rewarding experience, with flowers that attract both bees and butterflies.
To begin growing Angelica archangelica, it is best to start from seed or from transplants. If starting from seed, it is recommended to start indoors so the plants can get a good head start.
Sow the seeds about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date for your area. Once the seedlings reach 3 inches tall, they should be transplanted 4 to 5 feet apart in a sunny area of your garden with fertile, well-draining soil. Angelica archangelica prefers slightly moist conditions and tends to perform well in cooler climates.
Angelica archangelica grows best when fertilized every two weeks and regularly watered to keep the soil moist but not wet. To get the best flavor from the leaves, it is best to harvest them when the plant is 1 to 2 feet tall.
For the best herbal teas, it is best to harvest the leaves either in the early morning or in the late afternoon, when the aromatic oils are most concentrated. For a milder flavor, the stems can be harvested anytime, as it contains a milder flavor. If left to bloom, Angelica archangelica produces white or pinkish umbels from midsummer to early fall.
The flowers attract a plethora of beneficial insects to your garden, such as bees and butterflies. Additionally, the flowers are edible and can be used to add a unique floral flavor to salads and other dishes.
Uses of angelica archangelica
Angelica archangelica, often simply referred to as “angelica,” is an herb that has been harvested for centuries for its culinary and medicinal uses. Native to Northern Europe, angelica has found its way into many cuisines, from Italian to Scandinavian and beyond. In the garden, angelica is an attractive plant, growing to heights of six feet or more, with bright green or purple flowers that attract a variety of butterflies and bees.
Angelica grows best in damp, shady areas and tolerates a wide range of temperatures, from full sun to cold winters. From a culinary perspective, angelica is a welcome addition to the kitchen.
Its flavorful young leaves, stems and roots can be used either raw or cooked and are sometimes added to soups and salads. The seeds can be used to flavor liqueurs and cordials such as vermouth and aquavit.
Medicinally, angelica can be used to stimulate appetite and digestion, reduce fever, treat hematemesis (vomiting blood) and alleviate gout and rheumatic pain. It has also been used to ease menstrual cramps, reduce inflammation and even flush out the body of impurities. You’ll find an abundance of uses for angelica in the garden.
Its aromatic leaves, stems and roots make excellent additions to homemade tisanes and teas. Beginners to herb gardening will appreciate angelica’s easy-care requirements and attractive foliage.
Moreover, the plant’s sweet or sharp fragrances are said to repel some insect pests, making it a valuable addition to companion planting. Finally, if you’re looking for an edible herb with plenty of culinary and medicinal applications, angelica archangelica is a great choice!
Recipes featuring angelica archangelica
Gardening experts often recommend Angelica archangelica, commonly known as garden angelica, as a versatile plant that can add a unique flair to any garden. This biennial plant is native to wetlands, meadows and streambanks in Northern Europe, but is easily adaptable to other climates.
With its bright green leaves and ornamental purplish flowers and stems, angelica archangelica can help to instantly add color and character to any garden. Many gardeners find that angelica archangelica does best in gardens that get daily sun and partial shade. Not only is this plant a visual asset, it can also provide practical benefits.
Angelica archangelica is known to deter rabbits and other small animals, making it a useful addition for wildlife-friendly gardens. In addition, its long-lasting flowers make it perfect for cut flowers that can be added to bouquets and flower arrangements.
Finally, this hearty plant can also be used to make delicious recipes. Angelica archangelica is a key ingredient in many dishes, including sauces, marinades, and desserts. In parts of Sweden and Norway, angelica stems are pickled and used in salads and soups.
In the UK, angelica is often included in rich, decadent trifle recipes, while in Finland it is often turned into a comforting stew. The possibilities with this amazing plant are truly endless.
Our video recommendation
Bottom Line
Angelica archangelica is a medicinal herb native to Europe and Asia. It has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, such as digestive issues, skin conditions, and respiratory problems. It is also known to have anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and diuretic properties.
Angelica archangelica is an aromatic, perennial herb with a sweet, earthy flavor and a slightly bitter aftertaste. It can be used in teas, tinctures, and topical applications for its therapeutic benefits.
FAQ
What are the medicinal benefits of Angelica archangelica?
Angelica archangelica has many medicinal benefits, including being used as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, and stimulant. It is also used to treat digestive issues, respiratory problems, and skin conditions. Additionally, it is believed to have anti-cancer properties and can be used to reduce fever and improve circulation.
What parts of Angelica archangelica are edible?
The leaves, stems, and roots of Angelica archangelica are edible.
How is Angelica archangelica used in traditional medicine?
Angelica archangelica has been used in traditional medicine for centuries as a remedy for a variety of ailments, including digestive issues, respiratory problems, and skin conditions. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, and has been used to treat headaches, colds, and fever.
What is the scientific name of Angelica archangelica?
The scientific name of Angelica archangelica is Angelica archangelica L.
What is the optimal growing environment for Angelica archangelica?
The optimal growing environment for Angelica archangelica is a moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. It prefers cooler temperatures and can tolerate temperatures down to -20°C. It also requires regular watering and fertilization.
What are the potential side effects of consuming Angelica archangelica?
The potential side effects of consuming Angelica archangelica include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and skin irritation. It may also interact with certain medications, so it is important to consult a doctor before consuming it.
