Angelica Root is an herb with many uses. With the popularity of alternative medicines rising, this root may have a use in many households.

Angelica Root is an herb that has been used in Asia and Germany for many centuries. In the last decade or so its use has become widely known in the United States. The only side effect known so far is sensitivity to the sun. So therefore it is important not sunbathe or have prolonged exposure while taking the herb.

Types of Angelica

* Angelica atropurpurea
Common names: American Angelica, Angelica, Archangelica,
Bellyache Root, High Angelica, Masterwort, Purple Angelica,
Wild Archangel.

* Angelica sylvestris
Common names: Wild Angelica, European Wild Angelica, Goutweed.

* Angelica archangelica
Common names: European Angelica, Garden Angelica.

Herbs have been used for centuries to treat everything from nosebleeds to cardiovascular disorders. During the last century there has been a trend to “go back” to the natural way of treating disease and conditions. Although many herbs have side effects, they are less common than with manmade “medications” or conventional treatments, which can lead to other disorders, or, have so many side effects that the effects of the drug are much worse than the disease or condition itself.

With our thought processes becoming more, “if it is natural it has to be good for us,” homeopathy, alternative medicine and herbal treatments appear to be on the rise. Other types of New Age healthcare also seem to correspond and support the use of herbs in treatment.

Upper Respiratory and Gastrointestinal Uses

* Angelica Root may be used as an expectorant for bronchial illnesses, colds and coughs, and also as a digestive aid for stomach disorders often referred to as “stomach tea.” Broadly used in Germany.
* Cardiovascular Uses
* Angelica root extracts of various species have demonstrated calcium-antagonist-like effects, which may be relevant for treatment of cardiovascular disease.

Gynecological Uses

It does not, as is popularly believed, possess estrogenic effects. This plant contains coumarin, which probably explains its very definite effect on the menstrual cycle.

* Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation and other associated symptoms, which may include nausea, backache,  dizziness,vomiting, diarrhea, headache and a feeling of tenseness).
* Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation). A test for pregnancy should be done before you attempt to use this herb.
* Metrorrhagia (irregular menstruation). Bleeding between periods, which are common for young girls first starting menses.

As a boiled-down wash, it helps to ease rheumatism and neuralgia.

When chewed, it can help relieve the after effects of too much alcohol, commonly known as a “hangover.” Persons who are taking a blood thinner or are pregnant should not use this herb.

cardiovascular disease, herb, respiratory, stomach disorders