Angelica extract in gynecology. Medicinal properties and harm of the “guardian angel plant” (angelica officinale). Botanical description of Angelica officinalis
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Modern man has become very distant from nature and the knowledge that our ancestors passed on to us. But this did not make him healthier, and sometimes after many unsuccessful attempts to cure this or that ailment, we turn to herbs and healers. To regain knowledge again, you need to study plants and their properties. And today you can learn about one very useful herb called angelica.
This plant has existed on our planet for thousands of years. And for the same amount of time it has been known for its beneficial qualities for humans. Angelica was used to treat many diseases, and the effect of the treatment was good. Over such a long history of its existence, the plant has acquired many other names - angelica, meadow oaks, bordanka, sweet trunk, angelica.
Did you know? According to ancient legends of some peoples of the world, angelica was given to people from heaven. This happened when people were struck by the plague, and there was no salvation from the disease. At that moment, an angel sent from God descended from above, and in his hands was the root of a wonderful plant. Then people called angelica archangelica (Latin).
According to scientists, the grass has a homeland in the northern regions of Eurasia. In the 14th century, angelica was brought to European countries from the Scandinavian regions. Since ancient times, our Slavic ancestors used it to treat various ailments. The plant gave health, strength, beauty. Moreover, it was angelica that saved a person from poison after a snake bite.
The grass still grows in our country. At the same time, it is quite widespread throughout the territory; herbalists can prepare angelica in the European part, and in the Urals, and in Siberia. It grows in the mountainous Caucasus and the Far East. Here the grass grows wild. Sometimes it can be specially cultivated in certain regions. But in Europe, many countries grow angelica purposefully.
Description of the plant
So that you can better understand what we are talking about, look at the photo of angelica. This grass has a tall stem that exceeds the height of a person. It blooms in umbels with white or yellow flowers. The sheets are beautiful as they have carved contours. The grass has a rather pronounced aroma, its roots grow over a long distance, holding tightly to the soil, but at the same time they do not grow deep. Angelica root also has its own subtle aroma.
The stem has many branches, the leaves on it are large, and there is a silvery coating. The plant blooms in the second and third decades of summer. If angelica is a year old, then it does not bloom and the time for its collection is September, October. If the herb is two years old or older, it will flower and be harvested in April and May.
For information! The powerful root of angelica is very healing and smells pleasant. It is the raw material for medicines for many diseases. To understand why the herb is valued, read further on its composition.
Angelica officinalis. What is his strength?
Of course, every medicinal plant helps a person because it contains various necessary components and vitamins. Angelica is considered a herb that can give health and strength. It contains a lot of essential oils and acids (malic, acetic, valerian, etc.). The composition is also rich in tannins, carotene, antioxidants, sugars, resins, and bitter substances. That's not all.
Nature has not deprived the plant of proteins, vegetable fats, calcium, pectin components, ascorbic acid, and phosphorus. Without these components, our body cannot be healthy, and they can be replenished so easily by using the plant in your everyday life. It is worth noting that angelica contains fiber, and our gastrointestinal tract needs it for digestion and cleansing the body of all harmful and unnecessary substances.
For information! Essential oil is made from the rhizome of the plant and is used for therapy. It contains all the beneficial substances, while its aroma is subtle and has notes of musk. Scientists also believe that the oil contains one of the very important components - phelandrene.
Angelica plant. Its benefits and contraindications
Medicinal properties
- Used as a powerful remedy for immunity.
- The plant has always been valued for its ability to help our cardiovascular system and improve blood flow.
- Removes bile, helps kidney function. It has a good effect on the health of people who were or are dependent on alcohol.
- Stimulates and tones the nervous system.
- An excellent assistant for those people who suffer from various back pains and diseases. To do this, use alcohol infusions as a rub.
- And during a cold, angelica is our assistant, as it can lower the temperature, cope with the pathogenic environment of microbes and bacteria, and relieve a painful cough.
- The grass normalizes blood pressure and improves motor skills.
- Infusions based on angelica root help our digestion. The body begins to receive maximum nutrients, and waste, toxins, and carcinogens are removed from it.
- Medicinal components help lower cholesterol levels.
Agree how unique this herb is. So, why don’t we know anything about it, and even if we know where it grows, we don’t use it for therapy. After all, it is much easier to use natural gifts than to drink tablets with a chemical composition.
Angelica officinalis for women
All of the above qualities of the herb are beneficial for everyone, but angelica has certain properties that can help women's health. Namely, the plant gives a chance to get pregnant for women who suffer from anemia, problems with blood circulation, and constantly feel tired. Against this background, it is very difficult to conceive a child.
If you use angelica for therapy, you can gain strength, because we remember how the Slavs called angelica in ancient times. The woman will regain health, her skin will not be pale and dry. The plant also helps those who have already given birth to remove weakness, restore menstruation, and relieve pain in the pelvis. In a word, angelica is essential for women’s health for its medicinal properties and composition.
Contraindications. Who should not use herbs for therapy?
Whenever using a particular plant or products made on its basis for treatment or prevention, it is necessary to understand about individual intolerance to the components. Someone can drink the infusion as tea, while others can get severe allergies. After all, we all have different bodies.
The infinitely useful angelica does not have any special contraindications or side effects; it is not suitable for two categories of people - women, when they are already carrying a child, note that after childbirth and for conception, the herb is useful, and people with diabetes. Well, as was said earlier, plants are not allowed for those who may be allergic to them.
Important! Even if you know everything about the state of your health, what diseases you have or don’t have, still never engage in treatment at home without consulting a doctor. Women need to be especially careful, because sometimes we may not immediately find out about our pregnancy, during which we should not drink decoctions or infusions based on angelica root.
We must use the medicinal properties of the plant for our health, immunity, and prevention. After all, anyone can collect raw materials, as well as make an infusion, and you will receive an environmentally friendly medicine. Properly selected herb can help you get back on your feet after the most serious illness, so is it worth neglecting such gifts?
We hope you found the article useful, and now your knowledge about traditional medicine has become more complete. You can prepare the herb yourself or buy it ready-made at the pharmacy. But remember the collection deadlines.
All materials on the website are presented for informational purposes only. Before using any product, consultation with a doctor is MANDATORY!
Description of angelica
Angelica is an unusual umbrella plant that often reaches a height of more than two meters. The thick, rounded stem is hollow inside and very branched in the upper part. The large, smooth leaves of this herbaceous plant are considered doubly pinnate. The very small flowers have a greenish-white tint. They are collected in spherical umbrellas of complex shape, which contain from 20 to 40 rays. Such original umbrellas do not have a common typical wrapper. The fruit is presented in the form of a two-seed.
Angelica blooms from June to the very end of August. The fruits ripen in August and September. The plant is very common in Russia and Europe. It can often be found in Siberia and the Urals. It prefers to settle on moist soils along rivers, along ravines, in swampy forests and swamps. For medicinal use, powerful rhizomes with roots are collected. After digging, they should be washed well in cold water and then cut into pieces of the desired size. It is recommended to dry the raw materials outdoors in the shade.
Useful properties of angelica
Large rhizomes and roots of angelica contain a lot of organic acids, carotene, wax, bitter and essential tannins, as well as essential angelica oil, resins, starch, phytoncides, furocoumarins and coumarins. Due to this exceptional composition, in case of overdose they can cause serious toxic and allergic reactions.
The plant not only has anti-inflammatory and diaphoretic properties, but also boasts the ability to enhance the motor and secretory functions of the gastrointestinal tract. The amazing angelica quickly reduces or completely eliminates negative fermentation processes in the human intestines, while simultaneously relieving spasms. Umbrellas also have an expectorant effect on various inflammations of the respiratory system.
Application of angelica
The presented plant perfectly helps with chronic and. Numerous preparations based on angelica are indicated for the treatment of respiratory diseases and laryngitis. For stomatitis and gingivitis, they are prescribed as rinses. With regular procedures, these diseases recede. You can also use angelica in the form of infusions as a diuretic or choleretic agent.
Various decoctions of angelica roots are useful for severe exhaustion of the nervous system, acute or chronic neuralgia, as well as bronchial asthma. The products have a relaxing effect when aromatizing baths. A special alcohol tincture of the plant is in most cases used externally for rheumatism. In ancient times, the roots were used as a natural flavoring and incomparable spice.
One of the ways to prepare angelica is as follows. At 3 tbsp. l. dry and well-chopped herb, take 2 cups of boiling water. Let this delicious mixture steep for at least two hours and then strain. The infusion should be taken half a glass 4 times a day before each meal.
Angelica root
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In the autumn, roots and rhizomes are collected. They are dug up, then cut into small pieces and dried for a long time under canopies in the open air, so that they are not exposed to direct sunlight. To prepare a healing decoction from angelica roots, you will need no more than 10 grams of raw material per 100 ml of water. This excellent remedy is indicated for bronchitis, laryngitis, as well as other equally dangerous respiratory diseases.
Many doctors recommend taking a decoction of the plant for gastritis, flatulence and duodenal problems. It perfectly helps restore the gastric mucosa after ulcers heal. This remedy is distinguished by its anthelmintic, antitumor and antispasmodic properties. You can make compresses from it to treat not only gout and rheumatism, but also toothache.
The healing tincture of the roots can be drunk for neuroses and dangerous liver diseases. If you drip the juice of the roots into the hollow of a diseased tooth, it will work no worse than a modern painkiller. All remedies made from angelica roots boast antipyretic and tonic effects on the human body. They easily relieve headaches, alleviate fevers and relieve pain in the.
Angelica extract
The magical plant angelica has been used since ancient times by our ancestors. Previously, with the help of this unsurpassed plant, plague and other deadly ailments were cured. The wonderful extract of angelica is one of the miraculous remedies in folk medicine. This health-improving drug tends to have a therapeutic beneficial effect on almost every organ of the human body. It is effective in treating diseases of the spleen and liver.
Also, angelica extract helps restore the functioning of the central nervous system in a minimal amount of time. This amazing plant has a positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract and the responsible cardiovascular system, which are important in the body. After completing the full course of treatment with this extraordinary remedy, an excellent appetite is noted, as well as complete digestion and assimilation of all components from food. At the same time, this drug is able to quickly normalize arterial blood pressure.
Angelica extract is indispensable in the fight against various dysfunctions of the human body. These may include serious functional disorders of the central nervous system. Women who have any problems due to inflammatory processes in the female genital area should undergo a long course of treatment with this remedy. In combination with modern therapy, you can get rid of recurrent gynecological ailments forever.
Types of angelica:
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The fantastic medicinal plant angelica includes several main species, which have been widely used since ancient times to treat many diseases.
Angelica silica. This biennial herbaceous plant grows up to two meters in height. It has a short thick rhizome. When broken, an interesting white juice is released, similar in consistency to milk. The erect, bare stem is very thick; it is presented in a hollow form. The oblong leaves of the plant can be either double or triple pinnate. Small white flowers are always collected in complex umbels. Their diameter does not exceed 17 cm.
The fruit is presented in the form of a small two-seeded seed. Fresh mashed rhizomes and stems have a bitter taste and a strong specific odor. This type of angelica blooms from June to the end of August. It grows in wet meadows, along the gentle banks of streams and rivers, and also among bushes. The plant is distributed almost everywhere in Russia and the CIS countries.
Angelica marsh. The presented type of plant does not exceed one meter in height. This herbaceous perennial with a hollow angular-furrowed stem and large pinnately dissected leaves has oblong oval-shaped fruits, which are 5 mm long. The umbrellas reach 7 cm in diameter and have from 8 to 30 rays. The white petals are broadly ovoid in shape. An elegant involucre consists of many linear-lanceolate leaves. Marsh angelica blooms all summer, from late May to mid-August.
The plant is found in Ukraine and Belarus, in the territories of the European part of Russia and Eastern Siberia, as well as in Central Asia. As usual, it prefers damp meadows and swampy river banks.
Angelica Chinese. This umbrella perennial is not very tall. It has dense powerful rhizomes, a hollow stem and large fleshy leaves. Small flowers form healing umbrellas. This medicinal plant has absorbed exceptional healing components. Chinese angelica is contained in the popular dietary supplement "Lian-Yan", which today is very widely used for the effective treatment of respiratory diseases, gynecological ailments and gastrointestinal pathologies, as well as other chronic problems.
Angelica contraindications
Due to the photosensitizing properties of the plant, it is necessary to avoid direct sunlight when using the herb. You should strictly monitor the prescribed doses, avoiding overdoses.
Expert editor: Sokolova Nina Vladimirovna| Herbalist
Education: Diploma in General Medicine and Therapy received from the University named after N. I. Pirogov (2005 and 2006). Advanced training at the Department of Herbal Medicine at the Moscow People's Friendship University (2008).
Almost all plants can help a person, including with health problems. In the search for a suitable product to combat a specific ailment, some go to extremes and begin to use everything without devoting time to a detailed analysis of the properties of the plant. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the features of medicinal angelica - an umbrella plant, the use of which in folk medicine is widespread. By understanding all aspects of its impact on the body, you can derive the greatest benefit from its use in a given situation.
Angelica - what kind of plant is it and what does it look like?
Angelica is a biennial plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It can reach a height of two and a half meters, and once you meet it, it will be difficult to confuse it with any other plant. Above the ground, at the very root of an adult plant, a rosette is formed, from which emerges a lush bunch of leaves and a tall, erect trunk. The stem visually looks very massive, but inside it is hollow, which ensures its relative lightness in weight. At the very top of the plant an inflorescence is formed - a complex large spherical umbrella, which reaches 15-20 centimeters in diameter and is endowed with several dozen rays with small, inconspicuous flowers.
Angelica grows both wild and cultivated. Its preferred climatic conditions are swamps, forest ravines, spruce and pine-birch forests. It is worth noting that the plant has a very pleasant aroma, which is sure to attract attention to this unusual representative of the flora.
Beneficial and medicinal properties of medicinal plants
Medicinal angelica contains a huge amount of substances beneficial to humans, so it is often called strength-giving. All parts contain: essential oil, malic, acetic, valeric and other acids, tannins, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin C, B 12, resins and other components. Based on this, angelica can be used as:
- diuretic;
- antimicrobial;
- anti-inflammatory;
- expectorant action;
- means for activating blood microcirculation and lowering blood pressure.
What diseases are the root and the herb used for?
The active use of angelica in medicine is a consequence of the properties that it can have on humans. Of course, it is not used as the only remedy, but the plant can have a powerful auxiliary effect in one aspect or another, and therefore can be used for the following health problems:
- indigestion;
- diseases of the heart and blood vessels;
- gout, rheumatism;
- cholelithiasis and problems with kidney function;
- circulatory disorders;
- menstrual irregularities;
- cough due to bronchitis or cold;
- spasms in the digestive tract;
- for allergies.
What are the benefits of plants for women in gynecology?
The plant in question should be classified as a group of products that have great benefits for women’s health. Due to the fact that angelica has vasodilating and antispasmodic properties, it is simply irreplaceable for menstrual pain. By improving blood circulation in the pelvis, the plant allows you to minimize discomfort at different stages of the menstrual cycle.
Angelica is also able to have an effect on the level of estrogen in a woman’s body, and therefore is actively used during menopause (relieves symptoms, including alleviating hot flashes). The plant can be used in other situations:
- endometriosis;
- excessive bleeding during menstruation;
- the need to restore the cycle after long-term use of hormonal contraceptives.
Methods of use in folk medicine - recipes
Obtaining results from herbal medicine is a consequence of the correct selection of the form and quantity of the medicinal composition taken. Let's look at the basic recipes based on medicinal angelica.
For potency
Considering angelica as a tonic for blood circulation, it is fair to note that its use will also be useful for enhancing attraction to the opposite sex, that is, for enhancing libido. Improving microcirculation in the external and internal genital organs of a person will also be important in this matter. The easiest option would be to purchase special angelica tea at the pharmacy, which is pre-packaged in disposable tea bags, or prepare it yourself. To do this, you will need to pour two teaspoons of dry plant roots with a glass of boiling water and leave under a closed lid for about 10 minutes. Drink it in small sips, warm, up to three mugs a day.
If your period is late
Angelica is one of the most popular herbal remedies used by women for delayed menstruation. The decoction allows you to activate blood circulation in the uterus, thereby provoking the discharge of unnecessary epithelium. So, to prepare the composition you will need to take a couple of tablespoons of the dried product (leaves or roots) and add liquid in a volume of 200-250 ml. The mixture is boiled in a water bath for about half an hour, cooled and filtered. You need to take the medicine 50 milliliters twice a day until the desired result is obtained.
Before you start using this remedy to induce menstruation, you should make sure that pregnancy is excluded as the cause of the delay. Otherwise, there is a high probability of harming the fetus.
For infertility
Infertility can be the result of a wide variety of reasons; in some situations they are simple and easily solved, while in others they are insurmountable. Often a woman cannot become pregnant because the pelvic organs receive little blood (this is observed during sedentary work) or the patient suffers from anemia. In such situations, pharmaceutical angelica can help to conceive such a desired baby, as it eliminates the problems described. The following recipe will be relevant:
- to prepare a water infusion you will need a tablespoon of plant roots and a glass of boiling water;
- the ingredients are combined and left to infuse for several hours;
- Afterwards, the mixture is carefully filtered and drunk a day - 100 ml in the morning and evening.
The infusion well activates the body and the processes occurring in it; it can be used from time to time as a preventive product.
For weight loss
An alcohol tincture you prepare yourself will be a good helper in the fight against extra pounds. The procedure is as follows: a couple of tablespoons of dried rhizomes are placed in a jar and 250 ml of vodka is poured. After a week of infusion, the product can be used - a dessert spoon three times during one day. You shouldn’t arrange courses that are too long – about 10 days will be enough. At the same time, an ideal result can be achieved only by following the correct lifestyle and nutrition, and regular physical activity (in acceptable amounts).
Preparations based on angelica
Pharmacies offer a wide selection of angelica products. Thus, you can purchase the plant in the form of a mixture of dried leaves, roots, alcohol tincture, tablets, capsules, bagged and loose teas (both in pure form and in combination with other phyto-ingredients). They are presented as dietary supplements and are not official medications. There are many companies involved in the production of such products, so it is not advisable to mention them.
Angelica can also be part of a multicomponent composition, such as Planetary Herbals tablets, designed to tonify the female body.
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What are the differences between angelica and hogweed?
When collecting herbs on your own, there is always a danger of losing vigilance and taking not the desired plant, but its dangerous “double”. Thus, angelica officinalis can easily be confused with hogweed, which in turn is poisonous to humans. When its juice gets on the skin, an active response develops, blisters and dark spots form, which take a very long time to disappear. There are some differences in appearance that will help distinguish useful from dangerous: angelica has an exceptionally smooth trunk, a little reddish at the very bottom, and the inflorescences tend to an ideal large round shape, while the poisonous “analogue” has all the elements covered with hard hairs. When a green leaf of hogweed is damaged, a very unpleasant odor begins to emanate, while the aroma from angelica is very attractive.
Harm from consuming the plant
Harm from consumption angelica-based products can occur only in two situations: when contraindications are ignored, and when the recommended rules of administration are violated. Thus, if the dosage is exceeded, a state of severe poisoning of the body may occur, accompanied by nausea, loose stools and vomiting. If you suspect a negative reaction to the plant, you should immediately call an ambulance.
Contraindications
The peculiarity of the product is its photosensitizing effect, that is, the ability to increase a person’s sensitivity to light. Thus, the product should not be used by patients with fair and thin skin, especially before a planned vacation. If plant juice is applied to the skin, contact with sunlight will quickly result in a severe burn or skin reaction in the form of dermatitis.
You should also avoid using angelica:
- during pregnancy, as the product can have an abortifacient effect;
- with severe uterine bleeding;
- during menstruation (if they proceed normally);
- with a high tendency to bleeding;
- when diagnosed with diabetes mellitus;
- during an attack of tachycardia or fever.
A separate point worth noting is such a standard limitation as individual intolerance.
And this herb also got an incredibly beautiful Latin name - Angelica archangelica, which is why in some countries angelica is called nothing less than the “holy spirit”. The myth explains that the plant received such an unusual name in honor of the Archangel Gabriel, who, according to legend, told humanity about the beneficial properties of this plant. Today, many have forgotten that angelica can be useful and perceive it solely as a weed.
Botanical description
This biennial plant from the Apiaceae family can grow up to 2 meters in height. Its thick, fleshy and very branched stem is difficult to confuse with other plants. The leaves of angelica are large, dissected into several segments. Throughout the summer, the grass is “preened” with huge white-green umbrella inflorescences, which are very reminiscent of flowering carrots or dill.
Scandinavia is considered the homeland of angelica. For many centuries, this herb served as a source of food and medicine for the inhabitants of northern Finland, Norway, Sweden, and the Inuit who inhabited Greenland. Angelica was extremely popular among the Vikings. From the texts of the Icelandic sagas we learned that until the beginning of the 1000s, this plant was protected by a law that prohibited the total collection of angelica. At one time in Norway, this herb was specially grown in gardens.
What's good about angelica?
Laboratory studies have shown that the plant contains, and. All parts of the plant contain healing essential oil. Researchers have isolated more than 20 useful components from the root of this herb. Among them are terpenes, coumarin, (monkshood, fumaric, valerian). Angelica seeds are incredibly rich in essential oils, and leaves are rich in tannins.
Use in folk and traditional medicine
It is believed that angelica was the first medicinal plant to be exported from the northern countries to other parts of Europe. By the 14th century, angelica became known not only to the Scandinavians. He is included in the list of the most respected medicinal plants among herbalists. In the Middle Ages, angelica saved humanity from the plague, and in the 17th-18th centuries - from dysentery, cholera and other intestinal infections. Modern herbalists call angelica a medicinal plant with a wide spectrum of action. Here are some of the benefits of angelica.
Gastrointestinal tract
It is used to eliminate diseases of the digestive system. It is known that this herb stimulates appetite, reduces gas production, relieves intestinal colic, and improves digestion. Angelica has a bactericidal effect on the gastrointestinal tract and increases the production of stomach acid.
Circulation
This herb is very beneficial for people with blood circulation problems. In particular, angelica extract is used to treat Buerger's disease, a pathology accompanied by narrowing of the arteries in the arms and legs.
Respiratory system
Wild celery is an effective expectorant that is used to treat bronchitis, asthma and other diseases of the respiratory system. As a rule, angelica roots are used for this purpose, but it must be said that the stems and seeds are also beneficial for the respiratory system.
Anti-cancer and antioxidant properties
Scientific research has discovered another amazing ability of angelica. It turned out that it has anti-cancer properties. The plant juice has antimutagenic properties, that is, it prevents the degeneration of cells into malignant formations. In addition, the plant has powerful properties that make angelica useful for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.
Antibacterial effect
The plant has antifungal and antibacterial activity. The dried root powder is used to treat athlete's foot and as a pesticide and insect repellent.
Bone tissue and muscles
Compresses made from crushed angelica leaves are known in folk medicine as a cure for rheumatism, arthritis, gout, and edema. In addition, angelica is used to accelerate bone healing after fractures.
Other properties
German researchers have made their contribution to the study of the abilities of angelica. They have proven the effectiveness of the plant in reducing body temperature during fevers, as a preventive and medicinal remedy for colds, and urinary tract infections. In addition, angelica may be useful in calming an overactive bladder, which is often observed in older people. The special phytonutrients in the herb soothe the bladder from very frequent contractions and prevent frequent urination.
Angelica infusion is useful for gargling with a sore throat. It is also good to use this medicine internally, in particular to treat colds, coughs, pleurisy, to strengthen the heart and reduce blood pressure.
Angelica is useful as a tonic. This drink gives strength and vigor, promotes rapid recovery after serious illnesses. Herbal tea is good to drink in case of lack of appetite and decreased gastric secretion. For women, it is useful for regulating the menstrual cycle, getting rid of PMS symptoms, and restoring the balance of hormones. In addition, a drink made from green leaves should be consumed by people with hypertension, and tea made from angelica roots is a folk remedy for the treatment of alcoholism.
Use in cosmetology
Angelica extract has antibacterial properties, which means that the plant is useful for treating acne. In addition, compresses made from crushed herbs relieve pain in areas of skin inflammation and reduce redness. It is useful to wash your face with a decoction of the root. Such procedures are effective in getting rid of pimples and acne.
Angelica root, as already mentioned, is useful for treating fungal diseases, including skin ones. To do this, it is useful to sprinkle the affected areas with dried angelica root powder. Angelica will not harm healthy skin. Washing with infusions or decoctions of this herb improves complexion, making it soft and velvety. To improve the effect, you can mix angelica extract with aloe juice.
A decoction of the root is also good for hair. Regularly rinsing your curls with this herbal remedy will make them more “alive” and also improve blood circulation in the scalp, and this is an important point for activating the growth of new hair.
Baths with angelica essential oil are useful for swelling of the legs and muscle pain. They also have a calming effect, which makes them useful before bed.
As a result of studies conducted on rats, scientists learned that angelica has sedative properties. Scientists say that this effect is achieved due to the presence of coumarins in the herb. Although it must be said that Indian healers have known about this property of angelica for more than one century.
As for the anti-cancer properties of angelica, researchers believe that the leaves of the plant are most beneficial for treating cancer. In particular, the ability of angelica extract to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells has been proven in vitro.
Another experiment by researchers showed that an alcohol tincture of angelica has a hepatoprotective effect. The tincture cleanses the liver of toxins, protects against oxidative stress and fatty degeneration of cells.
But the essential oil extracted from the roots of the herb has anticonvulsant properties. Researchers attribute this effect to the presence of a large number of terpenes in the oil.
How to use angelica: daily dosage
For treatment and prevention, angelica can be used in different forms. Tea, decoctions, infusions and tinctures from angelica are beneficial for the body. But the main thing here is to maintain adequate doses. Excessive enthusiasm for any medicinal herb, even with such an angelic name, can be harmful.
So, if angelica appears in your diet in the form of an alcohol tincture, then herbalists do not recommend using it more than three times a day, and a single dosage should not exceed 20-40 drops.
It is safer to drink angelica tea. You can prepare a drink from a teaspoon of dried and crushed herb root, which should be poured with a glass of boiling water and left for several minutes. Instead of the root, you can use dried herbs.
Side effects
Even Angelica archangelica has dangerous properties, but only if the rules for using the herb are not followed. As already mentioned, all parts of this plant contain a huge amount of essential oils. In adequate dosage, they are, of course, beneficial for humans. But it is enough to cross the line of the maximum permissible dose and angelica oils turn into toxic substances. It is definitely dangerous for humans to eat fresh angelica root. To get rid of the toxic substances contained in this part of the plant, the root of Angelica archangelica should be dried very thoroughly before use.
Pregnant women (it has abortifacient properties) and nursing mothers should not consume angelica. It is also prohibited to give any part of the herb to children under 2 years of age. Angelica extract should not be used if you have stomach or intestinal ulcers, or if you have diabetes. The juice of the herb, when in contact with the skin, causes allergies in some people and increases sensitivity to UV rays.
And the most important warning. When preparing angelica, it is important to be sure that you are collecting angelica officinalis and not poisonous herbs from the Apiaceae family, which may externally resemble Angelica archangelica. You should also distinguish between medicinal angelica and forest angelica. The second one is also not very suitable as a medicine. The main difference between these varieties is the shape of the inflorescence. If the medicinal flower has small flowers that form a spherical shape, the inflorescence-umbrella of the forest angelica is flat. The medicinal variety of angelica can usually be found on the banks of water bodies.
How to prepare correctly
It is advisable to collect two-year-old medicinal herbs, as they contain the most useful substances. Angelica roots are harvested in early spring, while they retain their healing components in maximum concentration. It is important to take only intact roots. After thorough cleaning, they are cut and dried in a dry, warm room, protected from direct sunlight.
Petioles for salads and other dishes are collected in April-June, when they are the juiciest, and seeds - in September.
Use in cooking
Angelica stems are not only edible, but also very rich in nutrients. In cooking, angelica can be used in the same way as celery. But before consumption, the fleshy stems should be cleared of the outer film, and only the inner pulp should be eaten. When raw, angelica stems have a rather pungent taste, but become more tender when cooked.
Dried roots and seeds of angelica as a spice go well with meat, vegetable dishes and all kinds of sauces.
For centuries, the French have used this plant in the preparation of liqueurs. They added greens to the drink as an aromatic component.
In the culinary field it is known from angelica. It differs from other species in its unusual color (it is a green substance) and the ability not to crystallize until spring. This product is known for its rich chemical composition and healing properties. In particular, it is useful for insomnia, nervous disorders, rheumatism and even epilepsy.
If you boil the crushed roots of angelica in sugar syrup, and then add it to the brew and cook a little more, you will get an original jam. And in the hands of skilled confectioners, angelica roots are transformed into candied fruits, marshmallows, jams, and pie fillings.
As you can see, behind the very ordinary appearance of angelica there is an extremely interesting and useful plant. So next time, when fighting weeds in the garden, take a closer look to see if there is angelica among these herbs. After all, now you know exactly how to use it properly.
Angelica, angelica, angelica are the names of wonderful spicy-food, medicinal and ornamental plants. Unfortunately, now it is rarely found in Russian gardens, although it fully deserves it.
Angelica is grown in gardens around the world as an ornamental biennial or perennial rhizomatous herbaceous plant with a strong fragrant odor. It received the name “angelica” for the very smooth hollow trunk from which pipes were made.
Wild angelica came from North Africa to European countries and Russia several centuries ago. Since then, anglerfish has become a popular garden plant. It was often grown in monasteries, called "angel grass", "grass of angels".
The moment of flowering of angelica in warm countries occurs on May 8 (on the day of St. Michael the Archangel), hence its name “Angelica archangelica” (Angelica archangelica).
Angelica officinalis and forest
Two types of angelica deserve the attention of gardeners: medicinal and forest.
Angelica officinalis(Angelica officinalis, Angelica archangelica) grows in Europe, Western Siberia, and the North Caucasus. It is also called " angelica european» , « angelica garden».
Medicinal dandelion is cultivated in England, Belgium, Holland and some other European countries.
Another species is also found in the European part of Russia - angelica(Angelica sylvestris). This is a perennial plant 1-2 meters high. Its cylindrical hollow stem is grooved, with a bluish bloom, and branches at the top. The leaves are double- or triple-pinnate, on long petioles with bag-like swollen sheaths. The flowers are white or pinkish, in a spherical inflorescence.
Angelica can be found in coniferous, mixed and birch forests, especially on light edges, as well as in flooded meadows.
Angelica officinalis also grows in nature in wet meadows and along river banks. Therefore, in the garden, a place with moisture-rich soil is better suited for growing it, where this plant becomes especially tall and beautiful.
Growing angelica in the garden
The majestic angelica is valued by landscapers for its ornamental carved leaves and openwork domes of lush inflorescences, for its unpretentious cultivation, and for the ability to easily and quickly decorate a large area.
Angelica garden is a powerful umbrella plant 1.2-2.5 m high with large beautiful leaves, double or triple pinnately dissected.
Angelica officinalis blooms in June-July. Its small flowers are white with a yellow or greenish tint, collected in large spherical umbels with pubescent rays. The fruits ripen in August-September.
Angelica inflorescences with unripe seeds, which hold well and retain their decorative effect for a long time, are cut off for adding to, for making.
It is very easy to grow angelica: it is undemanding to soil and heat, and is resistant to low temperatures: it overwinters well and grows early, and is not afraid of frost.
Angelica propagates with emenas, which are sown before winter or in early spring.
Angelica prefers moist, humus-rich soil. It is advisable to choose a location for it that is sunny or in partial shade under large trees.
Angelica looks very beautiful and is also used in the garden as a tall plant.
Despite the significant size of angelica stems, they are juicy and easily break off. Therefore, it is advisable to plant angelica in rarely visited places in the garden, where the plant will not be accidentally damaged.
Angelica is a good honey plant, so there are always a lot of bees and other pollinators above flowering plants.
Angelica in cooking and perfumery
Angelica is very useful - this plant contains many valuable nutrients (vitamins, microelements, organic acids, sugars, essential oil).
Young fragrant angelica greens are used as a tasty and healthy seasoning. It is used to flavor dishes, pickles, as an additive to salads and vegetable dishes.
The fragrant essential oil of angelica is traditionally added to a variety of confectionery products.
The tender petioles of the leaves and juicy stems of angelica are peeled and used to make jam, marmalade, and marshmallows. They are also candied to create delicious, aromatic candied fruits that are used to decorate pastries and cakes.
Vodka is infused with angelica roots to produce a healing tincture.
Gins and famous French liqueurs (Chartreuse, Benedictine, etc.) include essential oil from the roots and rhizomes of angelica.
Perfumers around the world have long paid attention to the smell of angelica essential oil because of its exotic musky hue, which is very rarely found in the plant world. It is used to flavor soaps, make perfumes and other cosmetics.
Angelica in medicine
Since ancient times, angelica has been considered a healing plant that has a positive effect on the immune system and the entire body as a whole.
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In the picture: Angelica officinalis
Angelica has long been revered as a medicinal and sacred plant and was used in magical rituals.
The famous healer Paracelsus highly valued angelica, considering it a panacea for all diseases.
In ancient times, the medicinal angelica enjoyed a reputation as an effective remedy against the plague. In the 17th century, during the Great Plague of London, “angelic water” was included in the list of royal recommendations; the method of its use was described in a special brochure issued by the Royal College of Physicians.
Chinese medicine uses ten varieties of angelica with valuable medicinal properties. With their help, the fight against infertility is carried out, the spirit and body are strengthened, and female diseases are prevented and treated. The Chinese believe that angelica is second only to angelica in its medicinal properties.
In folk medicine of different countries, fragrant rhizomes and roots of angelica have long been used as a general tonic and cleansing agent, an analgesic (including to soothe headaches and toothaches), for scurvy, as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, diuretic, expectorant, diaphoretic, carminative, tonic, health-improving. menstrual cycle, digestive aid.
All parts of angelica contain medicinal essential oil, to a greater or lesser extent. But for industrial processing to obtain oil, only rhizomes and seeds of the plant are used. Therefore, two types of angelica oils are distinguished.
The tonic properties of angelica essential oil provide a powerful healing effect. It activates the activity of the respiratory organs and lymphatic system, accelerates the process of natural cleansing of the body through sweating and kidneys, effectively removes fluids and frees the body from toxins, and also serves as an antidote to snake bites.
Angelica essential oil helps normalize digestion and stabilize appetite (including helping to get rid of anorexia nervosa).
Angelica oil stimulates the production of estrogen, which helps normalize the menstrual cycle and endure painful menstruation, and alleviates the postpartum condition of a woman.
Angelica oil is an antiseptic of the genitourinary system, effective in the treatment of male and female infertility, and has a beneficial effect on the liver and spleen. Used as an expectorant for colds and diseases of the respiratory system. It relieves coughing in smokers, nervous attacks of choking and shortness of breath, and also helps restore the sense of smell.
Angelica essential oil controls the level of uric acid in the body, and is therefore useful for rheumatic diseases, arthritis, as well as gout and sciatica.
The cosmetic effect of angelica oil is also valued: it is a good skin tonic that exhibits an anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, it is used in the treatment of dermatitis and fungal diseases.
Grow angelica and use this wonderful plant to decorate your garden and improve your health!
Sergey Vladimirovich Kovalev (Novosibirsk)