Angelica is the common name of Angelica archangelica species, from Umbelliferae family.
Also known as: garden angelica, holy ghost, norwegian angelica.
Angelica flowers and leaves
Image credit: hipherb
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Features of Angelica
Height to 36-96 inches. Spread to 48 inches. Zone 4-9. Biennial.
hollow stem.
bright-green, pinnate leaf.
clustered, greenish-white, scented, tiny flower.
(Tiny flowers cluster on large flower heads.)
Growing Angelica
- by seed during spring and autumn. sow seeds in situ.
- by self-seed.
- transplant: transplant small seedlings 3 feet apart, before taproots establish. Seedlings often does not transplant well though.
- trimming: deadhead flowers before seed develops to extend the plant's life.
Angelica is probably best known for its candied stems, sold in top French confectionary shops. With aroma and bright green hue, the candied stems can be cut up and incorporated into cakes or pies.
The herb is also noted for its medicinal properties and its mystical power as a protection agains evil,
hence its name as the herb of the angels.
In folk medicine, Angelica is used to treat poor circulation and a range of digestive problems.
Using Angelica
Culinary
Dessert
Boil and make candy. (Use leaf, root)
Drink
Add flavours to liqueurs such as chartreuse and gin. (Use seed, root)
Sauce
Neutralize acidity in fruits when cooked together. (Use leaf)
Decorative
Decorative
Use dried seed-heads as display. (Use flower)
Medicinal
Tea
A tea to soothe cold symptoms and lower fever. (Use leaf)
Tea
An infusion of roots is helpful for digestive problems and flatulence. (Use root)
Traditional Remedies
- Respiratory » cough, cold and flu, bronchitis
- Digestive » indigestion, flatulence
- Mood » tension
- Disorder » headache
- Muscle And Joint » muscle pain, joint pain
- Other » circulation
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Please consult with your doctor before using angelica for health related purposes.
Your Say
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Mrs Porter said »
Once a Chinese friend of mine made a meat stew with Angelica root and other herbs -- It was delicious.
on 2009/08/06
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