CategoriesPlants and Active Ingredients Guide

Angelica : Benefits, Origin, Use and Food Supplement

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Angélique

Benefits of Angelica

L'angélique (Angelica archangelica), nicknamed "angel weed", is a medicinal plant renowned for its many health benefits:

  • Digestive support Helps combat bloating, intestinal problems and digestive spasms.
  • Antispasmodic effect relieves cramps and abdominal pain.
  • Calming properties Helps to reduce anxiety and stress.
  • Expectorant action Used to clear the respiratory tract in the event of coughing or bronchitis.
  • Natural tonic Helps to revitalise the body in the event of fatigue or convalescence.
  • Hormonal regulation Sometimes used to relieve menstrual disorders.

Origin and history

Angelica is a plant originally from Northern Europe and Central Asia. It grows mainly in temperate and humid regions.

Its use dates back to Middle AgesIt was considered a magical and protective plant. It was used against infections, the plague and as a digestive remedy. Its nickname "angel herb" comes from the legend that an angel revealed its medicinal properties to a monk.

Today, it is cultivated for its benefits in phytotherapy, as well as in pastries and liqueurs (candied angelica, Benedictine, Chartreuse).

Use of Angelica

1. Herbal medicine

Angelica is used in various forms:

  • Infusions and herbal teas To improve digestion and relieve spasms.
  • Liquid extracts and tinctures For concentrated action.
  • Powders and capsules in food supplement for easy grip.
  • Essential oil Used externally or as a vapour for its soothing properties.

2. Cooking and food

Angelica is used in a number of culinary preparations:

  • Confectionery and pastries candied angelica, herbal sweets.
  • Liqueurs and drinks Benedictine, Chartreuse, gin and other spirits.
  • Soups and stews Its leaves and seeds can be added for their aroma.

3. Cosmetics and skincare

Thanks to its relaxing and invigorating properties, angelica is used in :

  • Creams and lotions To revitalise the skin.
  • Aromatic baths Infusion or essential oil to relax the body.

Angelica as a dietary supplement

Angelica is used in the form of food supplementsin particular for :

  • Promoting digestion and reduce bloating.
  • Relieve spasms and cramps digestive or menstrual problems.
  • Supporting the nervous system in cases of stress or anxiety.
  • Stimulating the appetite for people recovering from illness.

Recommended dosage

  • Infusion 1 to 2 g dried root in 150 ml boiling water, 2 to 3 times a day.
  • Dye 30 to 50 drops in a glass of water before meals.
  • Capsules 250 to 500 mg per day as required.
  • Essential oil 1 to 2 drops as a vapour or diluted in a vegetable oil for massage.

Precautions and contraindications

Although angelica is beneficial, it should be used with caution:

Avoid in case of :

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause uterine contractions.
  • Anticoagulant treatments Risk of interactions.
  • Exposure to the sun Possible photosensitising effect of essential oil.

Possible side effects :

  • Skin reactions in the event of exposure to the sun after application of essential oil.
  • Mild digestive problems if consumed in large quantities.

Suggested associations with Angelica

  • Digestion and intestinal comfort Fennel, ginger, peppermint.
  • Relaxation and sleep Lemon balm, valerian, passionflower.
  • Immune support Echinacea, propolis.

Conclusion

Angelica is a plant multipurposeIt is used for its digestive, relaxing and tonic benefits, as well as for its culinary and cosmetic applications. As a dietary supplement, it offers a natural solution to digestive problems and stress.

Sources and references

  1. Bone K, Mills S. "Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine, Elsevier, 2013.
  2. WHO - World Health Organisation : Monographs on medicinal plants
  3. NCBI - National Center for Biotechnology Information : Studies on angelica
  4. Bruneton J. "Pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, medicinal plants", Lavoisier, 2009.