Angelica Oil
Angelica Essential Oil is a delicate oil, extracted from the root of the Angelica plant, Latin name: Angelica archangelica (A. officinalis). It is of the Umbelliferae family, the same family as fennel, parsley, chervil, carrots, parsnips caraway, Queen's Anne Lace, Standing tall and proud in nature, the angelica plant is an impressive sight. From 5 to 8 feet tall this plant bursts with power and energy. The main stem is as thick as an arm and the ferny leaves spread expansively from its stem. The strong root system is deeply anchored in the earth with a crowning glory of greenish white umbelliferous flowers. The plant’s strong aroma creates a distinctive aura. There are over 30 types of Angelica; with Angelica archangelica being the most commonly used. It can takes 2 to 3 years to flower, with greenish white flowers in midsummer. It often dies off after flowering so it is rather short lived perennial. It does well in damp woodlands, meadows and riverbanks. Its leaves resembles water hemlock which can be very poisonous. It takes 340 pounds of plant material to produce one pound of Angelica root essential oil.
Origin of Angelica Oil
It is believed that the plant originated from Africa and was introduced to Europe in the 16th century. It is a native plant of northern and eastern Europe as well as parts of Asia and the Soviet Union and is found in Scotland, Holland, Lapland and Germany. According to European folk lore it is called Angelica since it normally flowers in May around feast day of the Archangel Michael, the Great Defender, who appeared in a vision to explain its protective powers against evil. For this reason, it is often planted in monasteries and is referred to as “Angel Grass.” Other names attached to this heavenly plant are ‘holy spirit root’ and ‘oil of angels’.
The use of angelica in China dates to at least 400 BCE, and is still commonly used today. People in the Orient were once as crazy about angelica root as we are today about ginseng root. Ginseng is considered the main herb in China as a male tonic, while angelica is considered the female counterpart. The Oriental traders sought out the root of the European angelica plant for its healing powers and the Europeans thought its healing powers were of Divine origin.
Extraction
The oil is extracted from the roots, rhizome and seeds of the angelica plant. The root is a rich source of vitamin B12, folic acid, and niacin, which may explain its blood-building attributes because these B vitamins are instrumental in making blood cells.
Therapeutic Properties
The therapeutic properties of angelica oil are antispasmodic, digestive, diuretic, hepatic, expectorant, stimulant, nervine, febrifuge, and anticoagulant. It is may have a calming effect on the nervous system. It generally detoxifies the body and can be useful for respiratory ailments. It is useful in indigestion, nervous gastritis and diverticulosis. Can be used to treat dull congested skin, irritation, gout, arthritis, water retention, bronchitis, coughs, anemia, anorexia, flatulence, migraine, fatigue, nervous tension and stress related disorders. It is a strengthening tonic and useful after chronic illness and in instances of lowered immunity, after childbirth to support the formation of healthy blood cells, and to strengthen the emotional body. Because it has a substance very similar to that found in the musk plant, this essential oil, when greatly diluted in a fragrant lotion, can be a sexual stimulant.
Contraindications
- Not to be used by diabetics because of its sugar content
- Do not use during pregnancy as it is a uterine stimulant.
- Internal use may interfere with anticoagulant drugs
- Can cause photo-toxicity
- May over stimulate the nervous system
- Overuse can cause diarrhea.
- It should never be taken if breast-feeding
- It is contraindicated in those with breast cancer
Uses
Massage and bath: This oil is great for giving your constitution a boost by invigorating the lymphatic system. Use in massage oil or a bath to aid the lymphatic system and detoxify. Blended with cream or lotion it is particularly useful for circulatory problems affecting the lower extremities, sciatica, helps to encourage the natural production of estrogen which aids in regulating and easing painful monthly periods.
Burners and vaporizers: Vapor therapy, use to clear lungs, and ease shortness of breath as well as asthma. To guard against viruses during the flu season: Take 1 to 2 drops of the essential oil.
Strengthening the mind and spirit: Use the essential oil of the angelica root in an aroma lamp, perhaps in combination with lemon or lemongrass. This also helps guard against viruses.
Faintness: Place one drop of undiluted angelica oil in your palm, rub both hands together briskly, then hold your hands under your face and nose. Breathe deeply! You will soon notice its strengthening effect. This is also helpful for nausea, weakness, and anxiety when traveling.
As A tonic: One way to take the root is by boiling one cup of angelica root in a quart of water for five minutes. Cool and refrigerate or take on hikes or bike rides and use instead of, or in addition to, water refills.
Blends
Although essential oils blend and mix well aroma-wise with one another angelica oil does go very well with basil, chamomile, geranium, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, mandarin and patchouli.
Interesting Facts
Stems of the plant were chewed during the plaque of 1660 to prevent infection. It is said that an angel appeared to a monk during a dream with a message that it could protect against the plague. As a result of this experience, the monk renamed the plant angelica (from that of wild celery), and the British Royal College of Physicians used it to formulate the "King's Excellent Plague Recipe". Needless to say, it did not stop the plague and soon fell into disfavor
When burned, the seeds and roots were thought to purify the air.
The herb is included in the famous Chartreuse and Benedictine liqueur.
It is used to flavor gin and it is traditionally candied for cake and confectionery.
The Chinese use at least 10 types of Angelica, well know in Chinese medicine for promoting fertility, fortifying spirit and for treating female disorders in general-Angelica’s reputation for support is second only to Ginseng. The Chinese also believed that women who took angelica maintained their youth far beyond its usual term. Consequently, they include it in all their major beauty creams.
During the Middle Ages, the liquid extract was dropped into the eyes and ears of soldiers going into battle in the belief that it would improve their sight and hearing. Some modern herbalists still prescribe eye drops.
Currently, Angelica is listed in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia as a specific for bronchitis associated with vascular insufficiency.
Morelos, Mexico, a tea is made from the root for digestive problems, intestinal inflammations, menstrual cramps, bronchial congestion, and to promote milk-flow in nursing mothers
The fragrance of Angelica essential oil may help release negative feelings from traumatic events; it is emotionally calming. Angelica flower essence is used to pen the doorway to protection from spirit realms.
Summary
The source of the angelica’s strength is the earth as the plant itself has been strongly influenced by elements from soil. Angelica is particularly suited to people who need solid grounding. Angelica aids people with upset nervous systems who urgently need to rebuild body and mind. This oil helps soothe all kinds of weakness. It is like super-growth fertilizer for the soul. The essential oil of the angelica root will help you rediscover your own inner strength, stamina, cosmic and spiritual energy.
Recipe
Abdominal Cramp Massage Blend
4 Drops of Angelica essential oil
8 Drops of Chamomile essential oil
3 Drops of Cardamom essential oil
1 ounce of Carrier oil (Sweet Almond for example)
Massage as needed onto abdomen
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