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 Angelica archangelica
Other Names: Archangelica Officinalis, Garden Angelica,
Archangel, Masterwort.
Habitat: Originally a native of Syria, but now has been
naturalized in Europe and the United States. It grows up to 6 feet in height
and, as it likes a shady position and moist soil, you should plant it toward the
rear of your herb garden. It comes from the same family as fennel and parsley,
and possesses the same characteristic hollow, fluted stems of all these
Umbelliferae. Its highly serrated leaves grow in bunches of three, and it exudes
a sin-like fragrance when bruised. It is hardy biennial herb (that is, it takes
two years to reach maturity) and is extremely easy to grow from seed, root
cutting, or seedling. However, if you plant from seed, make absolutely sure the
seeds are freshly harvested, as they lose their vitality very quickly.
Properties: The herb contains, among other things, a
volatile aromatic oil, sugar, valeric acid, angelic acid, and a resin known as
angelicin. Herbalists use it to aid in the elimination of toxins, the recovery
from rheumatism and colds, urinary complaints, and colic.
TRY THIS RECIPE
Root Dosage: infuse 1 ounce dried chopped root in 1 pint
boiling water for 1/2 hour in a covered container. Drink 2 tablespoons of the
liquid, flavored with honey if you wish, 3 or 4 times daily.
Seed Dosage: Infuse 1 teaspoon seed in 1 cup boiling
water; cover. Allow to stand until cool; strain and drink 1 to 2 cups cold a
day, again flavored with honey if desired. |
