Angelica officinalis for poisoning. Angelica officinalis: beneficial properties and contraindications. Contraindications and harm of angelica

Among the plants growing in Russia and having medicinal properties, angelica stands out. It is also called: angelica, cowtail, spindle, angelica or wolf's pipe. People associate it with strength and health. In folk medicine, angelica roots are mainly used. We will talk about this plant in the next article.

Description

This large grass grows for two years, reaching up to two meters in height during its life. The stem of the plant is erect, cylindrical, bare, has a bluish coating at the top and red at the bottom. The leaves on the underside are bluish-green, glabrous, vaginal, alternate. The basal leaves are large and triangular, and the stem leaves are smaller, with swollen sheaths.

The plant has small greenish-white flowers that gather at the top into almost spherical umbrellas. And the fruits in the form of flat visloplodics fall into two parts when ripe. To better understand what we're talking about, look what angelica looks like. His photo is presented below.

Where does it grow?

The plant can be found without problems in the European part of Russia, as well as in Western Siberia. Its homeland is considered to be Asia and northern Europe. It was brought to the Central part from Scandinavia in the 14th century. The angelica plant loves the banks of rivers, lakes, streams, damp ravines and water meadows.

Due to its strong spicy taste and aroma, it is sometimes cultivated and grown in gardens and even fields. Moreover, it is provided with appropriate conditions: loose, moist and cultivated fertile soil. Only then will the roots grow well in length.

Collection, preparation, drying

As noted, angelica roots are considered the medicinal part. They are collected in the first year of life in the fall, or in the second year in the spring, before they begin to grow.

If the crop is not cultivated, but is collected, you should be especially careful not to confuse it with another plant that is very similar in appearance - angelica. You can distinguish one from the other in the following way: angelica, which is useless in the medicinal sense, has a thyroid inflorescence, the stem at the top is granite, the fruits grow together with the pericarp, and the roots are woody and have an unpleasant odor. Unlike the biennial forest plant, it is a perennial plant.

The roots of angelica are dug up, the parts growing above the ground are cut off, washed in cold water and cut into two parts crosswise. It is dried in a ventilated area or outside. You can use the stove, setting the temperature to 35-40 degrees and laying out the roots in a thin layer. IN natural conditions If the weather is good, the raw materials will be ready in about a week. As the root dries, it turns brown or reddish-gray. The taste is sweetish at first, and then hot and bitter. If the angelica breaks when bent, it can be removed for storage. The shelf life is three years.

Compound

Angelica roots contain a lot of essential angelica oil, which has a strong and pleasant musky aroma. It consists of terpene and cymene, as well as a set of acids: malic, methyl butyric, angelic, acetic and valeric. Essential oil is found not only in the roots, but also in the grass, as well as in the seeds.

In addition, the root contains:

• tannins and bitter substances;
• starch;
• wax;
• Sahara;
• resin;
• phytosterols;
• other useful substances.

The leaves and flowers have quercetin, and the fruits, in addition to essential, contain fatty oil and coumarin derivatives.

Angelica root: medicinal properties

The rich composition determines the healing effect of angelica. It has:

• antispasmodic;
• antimicrobial;
• anti-inflammatory;
• expectorant;
• diuretic;
• painkillers;
• astringent;
• laxative;
• immunostimulating;
• disinfectant;
• general strengthening;
• antipyretic;
• vasoconstrictor;
• carminative;
• sedative effect.

Due to this, drugs that include angelica promote:

• improving appetite;
• normalizing the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and digestion;
• increased bile secretion;
• increased urination;
• reduction of fermentation;
• normalization of bile secretion, the functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems;
• reducing cholesterol levels;
• stabilization of metabolism.

Angelica helps in the treatment of:

• neuroses;
• colitis;
• gastritis;
• gout;
• biliary dyskinesia;
• bronchitis;
• seizures;
• diarrhea;
• duodenitis;
• scarlet fever;
• dropsy;
• insomnia;
• measles;
• laryngitis;
• skin diseases;
• myalgia;
• hysteria;
• stomatitis;
• rheumatism;
• sinusitis;
• tumors;
• tuberculosis;
• flatulence;
• women's diseases;
• other diseases.

Contraindications

Considering such a versatile and strong positive action, except that angelica root has beneficial features, and it also has contraindications. In particular, in case of an overdose, poisoning occurs, which can lead to paralysis of the nervous system.

In addition, when taking it as a medicine, you should avoid exposure to the sun, otherwise your skin will become irritated. Naturally, individual intolerance cannot be discounted. Therefore, you should start taking it extremely carefully, constantly monitoring your own sensations. It is contraindicated for pregnant women and nursing mothers.

Application

It is known that essential oil is prepared from the plant. To get 1 g of oil, take from 280 to 400 grams of fresh roots or from 100 to 280 grams of them in dry form. Fresh oil is a yellowish liquid. Over time it darkens. The oil has a pleasant sweetish aroma, and when prepared from the fruit it is an even stronger and fragrant product.

Decoctions are prepared in a ratio of 1:10, and infusions - 5:20. They are made from all parts of the plant. For inflammatory processes on the gums, it is useful to rinse your mouth with angelica extract. And the infusion, among other things, is taken as an antidote. In addition to internal use, it is also used externally. To do this, prepare a tincture with alcohol and rub it on the joints for gout, rheumatism, muscle pain and radiculitis.

Fans of medications can recommend Solgar capsules, which contain angelica root.

Recipes for various ailments

Let's look at how to prepare medicines and how to take them for various diseases.

If you suffer from depression, insomnia, or central nervous system diseases, this recipe will help. 20 grams of rhizomes are steamed in 150 milliliters of boiling water. The container is sealed and put in a warm, dry place for several hours. After this, filter and take 100 ml at lunch and before bed.

Joint diseases can be cured by healing baths. To do this, add 200 grams of roots to two liters of boiling water. The container is closed and left to infuse for 30 minutes. Then the composition is poured into the bath and taken for 20 minutes three times a week.

An excellent remedy for colds is an infusion prepared in equal proportions with marigolds. Take 30 grams of raw material per 400 milliliters of boiling water and infuse it in a warm, dry place for 5 hours. After filtering, the medicine is taken 100 ml twice a day.

Angelica seeds will help cleanse the kidneys and cure pyelonephritis. Add 15 grams of seeds to half a liter of water, filter and drink 100 milliliters every two hours.

To treat bronchitis, 20 grams of roots are poured with 300 milliliters of cold water, boiled and left to simmer for a quarter of an hour. Then filter the contents and take 60 milliliters four times a day.

For radiculitis or arthritis, the following recipe will help. 60 grams of dry raw materials are crushed and poured with a glass of vodka or alcohol. The container is tightly sealed and put in a dark place for fourteen days. At the same time, you should shake it regularly. After time, the contents are filtered and poured into a container with darkened glass. The product is rubbed on sore spots and compresses are made.

And here is a recipe that promotes treatment for gallstone disease. Having previously crushed the raw material, place it in a coffee grinder and bring it to a powdery consistency. 10 grams of angelica are poured into 300 milliliters of water, stirred until the powder dissolves, leave for half an hour and drink 20 ml twice a day after meals.

Angelica juice has a beneficial effect on jaundice or pancreatitis. It is squeezed out of fresh raw materials and drunk one small spoon four times a day for three weeks.

The duration of therapy for any disease should not exceed a month. If necessary, the treatment is repeated a month later.

Separately, it should be said how beneficial angelica root is for women. It helps with almost all gynecological problems, including infertility. For example, to normalize the menstrual cycle, you need to brew 20 grams of herb in 400 milliliters of boiling water and leave for 4 hours. The infusion is divided into two parts and drunk throughout the day. The course is 1 month.

Conclusion

This is the healing effect that angelica has. The photo shows what it looks like. But do not forget that the plant is easily confused with angelica silica. It is also advisable to consult with your doctor and herbalist before you start taking it.

Syn.: angelica officinalis, angelica, angelica, angelica, angelica, wolf's pipe, stinking angelica, piper, angelica, angelica, dudel, angelica, kukhotina, meadow pipe, podranitsa, subdranica, cannon, garden angelica.

Biennial (less often perennial) herbaceous plant with a pleasant aroma. It has choleretic, antispasmodic, expectorant, diuretic, tonic, sedative, diaphoretic, and strengthening properties.

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Flower formula

In medicine

In folk medical practice, angelica officinalis is widely used. A decoction of angelica rhizomes is used for flatulence, lumbago, insomnia, gastrointestinal diseases, biliary dyskinesia, gastritis, stomatitis, colds, bronchitis, laryngitis, gingivitis, pneumonia, and also as an expectorant, bactericidal, diuretic, diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory agent. Tincture of angelica roots is used to enhance the motor and secretory functions of the intestines, to increase appetite and normalize digestion, and also as a disinfectant and antispasmodic for stomach disorders and spasm-like conditions of the gastrointestinal tract. The tincture is used externally for rheumatism, gout, myositis, and myalgia. Extract from rhizomes is effective as an antispasmodic and sedative for spasms of organs with smooth muscles. Angelica preparations are used in the treatment of diarrhea, dropsy, radiculitis, measles, scarlet fever, bronchial asthma, skin and gynecological diseases (inflammatory processes of the genital organs, menstrual irregularities, painful menstruation, or dysmenorrhea, fibrocystic mastopathy, PMS, congestion observed in the pelvis, impaired uterine tone, infertility, menopause), as well as to improve libido and increase sexual sensitivity in women. The roots of angelica officinalis are included in diuretic and diaphoretic preparations. Angelica honey has a tonic effect on the nervous and cardiovascular systems, and is used as a good antispasmodic for stomach diseases and colds. Honey is especially effective for insomnia, nervous exhaustion, epilepsy, hysteria, myocardial dystrophy, ischemia, duodenal ulcer, enteritis, gastritis, colitis, constipation, atherosclerosis, enzymatic deficiency and rheumatism. Honey lowers blood pressure, cleanses the blood of toxins and improves immunity. External use of angelica honey is indicated for various diseases oral cavity (stomatitis, periodontal disease, gingivitis).

Contraindications and side effects

Before using angelica preparations, it is advisable to consult a doctor. You should not take drugs in case of severe uterine bleeding, pregnancy, abortion, breastfeeding; use them with caution in case of tachycardia, diarrhea, thrombosis, after heart attacks and individual intolerance. An overdose of angelica threatens central nervous system paralysis, and poisoning can provoke the development of skin diseases.

In other areas

Angelica oil with a spicy aroma and pleasant musky taste is obtained from the roots. All parts of the plant are used as a spice in the culinary, food and medical industries. Green shoots and leaf petioles are used in the confectionery industry, the roots are used as a spice for flavoring liqueurs, drinks, wine and in the tobacco industry. The powder of dried roots is used as a flavoring for candies, added to flour when baking bakery and confectionery products, as well as to meat sauces and fried meat. Angelica seeds are used to flavor vodka, sauces, and canned fish. Fresh roots and shoots of angelica are used to make candied fruits, jam, jam, marshmallows and tea substitute. The leaves of the plant's first year are used as salads and side dishes. The above-ground part is widely used to prepare savory sauces in Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, England, France and the USA. The peoples of the North use angelica shoots boiled in reindeer milk for food. In the medical industry, angelica roots are used as a corrigens to improve the taste of medicines. In the perfume industry, essential oil from angelica roots is used to flavor colognes, pastes, and creams. At a young age, angelica grass serves as good food for large and small livestock; it is harvested for silage. The dried stems are used to make wind folk instruments, in particular the kalyuk.

Classification

The taxonomic position of Angelica officinalis has so far been interpreted differently. Back in 1753, Linnaeus, in his work “Species plantarum,” described the plant as a species of the genus Angelica (Angelica) – Angelica archangelica. In 1776, Angelica officinalis was allocated to the genus Angelica. In 1814, the basionome of the name Archangelica officinalis Moench.) Hoffm became Angelica officinalis Moench. The names Angelica officinalis Moench and Angelica archangelica L. were later recognized to refer to the same species. This systematic situation was recorded in the “Flora of the USSR” and “Flora of Europe”.

In the vast majority of publications of the 2000s, including international databases, this species is considered as part of the genus Angelica (Latin Angelica) and its correct name is considered to be angelica officinalis (Latin Angelica archangelica L., or Angelica officinalis Moench). The genus contains about 110 species, growing mainly in the northern hemisphere, of the family Umbelliferae (Latin: Umbelliferae, or Apiaceae), (Elenevsky et al. 2004).

Botanical description

A powerful biennial, less often perennial, herbaceous plant with a pleasant aroma, reaches a height of 1-2.5 meters. The rhizome is radish-shaped, thick, with numerous adventitious roots, contains whitish or yellowish milky juice, has a fairly strong sweetish-spicy aroma and bitter taste. In the first year of life, a basal rosette with a small bunch of leaves is formed, in the second, large leaves grow and a tall, hollow, branched in the upper part, bare with a bluish bloom appears. The leaves are alternate, vaginal, triply pinnate, the basal leaves are large, long-petiolate, and triangular in outline. The flowers are small, inconspicuous, whitish or yellowish-greenish, collected in large, spherical inflorescences - a complex umbrella (8-15 cm in diameter), the peduncles in the upper part are densely pubescent. The formula of the angelica flower is *H 5 L 5 T 5 P (2).

The fruit is a drupe, split into two mericarps. It blooms in the second year of life, usually in June - August. The fruits ripen in July – September.

Spreading

Angelica officinalis is one of the most widespread umbelliferous species. It grows wild in Northern, Central and Eastern Europe. In Russia it is found in the European part, in the Urals, Western Siberia, and the North Caucasus. Prefers habitats with high humidity and rich soils with a slightly acidic or neutral reaction. Particularly favorable open spaces with soil rich in humus and moisture. It grows in forest ravines, in flooded meadows, among bushes, in swamps, along the edges of swampy spruce and pine-birch forests, on the banks of lakes, rivers, and streams. Often forms large thickets.

It is cultivated very rarely in Russia, mainly in the middle zone. As a spicy-flavoring medicinal plant and a source of essential oil, it is cultivated in Belgium, Holland and a number of European countries. The plant is unpretentious for cultivation, resistant to frost, and responds well to mineral fertilizers. Propagated by seeds and vegetatively.

Regions of distribution on the map of Russia.

Procurement of raw materials

IN medicinal purposes roots are used, less often leaves and seeds. When collecting raw materials, it is important to correctly identify the plant, since in appearance it resembles some poisonous species of umbrella plants. Particular attention should be paid to the integrity of the plant, since damaged raw materials lose their healing properties. Raw materials are harvested in late autumn in September - October, and plants of the first year of life are used. The collection of plants of the second year of life is carried out in March - April. The roots of angelica are dug up, shaken off the ground, and the above-ground part of the plant is cut off. The roots are washed in cold water, cut lengthwise and hung to dry. The raw materials are dried in the open air or in the attic, or in dryers at a temperature of 35 - 40 o C. The leaves are collected in the flowering phase and dried in the open air. Store the prepared raw materials in hermetically sealed cardboard boxes or in bags for 2 years. For use as a spice, the roots are dug up during the period of fruit ripening. The inflorescences are tied into bunches and dried to thresh the seeds. Dry the raw materials in the same way. The finished raw material is a reddish-gray cylindrical ring-shaped segments of rhizomes with roots extending from them. Raw materials with a strong aromatic odor that intensifies when crushed, a taste that is spicy, bitter, slightly hot. The seeds and roots of the plant are also stored in airtight containers, especially the roots, which easily absorb moisture and lose their aromatic properties.

Chemical composition

All parts of the plant contain up to 1% essential oil. An integral part essential oils are monoterpenes: phellandrene, pinene, borneol, cymene; terpenoids, coumarins (osthol, osthenol, umbelliprenin, xanthotoxin, imperatorin, angelicin, archangelcin, umbelliferone); phthalic acid derivatives: legustilide, sedanolide. Polyacetylene compounds were found in angelica oil: falcarinol, falcarindiol; coumarins: pinene, osthole and furocoumarin, angelicin and furocoumarins (angelicin, xanthotoxin, psolaren, bergapten, oxypeucedanin); phytosterols, resins - 6%, wax, bitter and tannins, organic acids (malic, acetic, angelic, valeric, etc.); sugars, pectins, carotene, starch. Up to 20% fatty oil is found in the fruits, ascorbic acid, calcium, and phosphorus are found in the leaves. Angelica honey contains vitamins, minerals, trace elements, fructose - 43% and glucose -38%.

Pharmacological properties

The wide range of medicinal effects of angelica is due to the biologically active substances contained in the plant. The essential oil has choleretic, diaphoretic, tonic, antispasmodic, analgesic, bactericidal, expectorant, diuretic effects, and also enhances the secretion of glands and gastrointestinal motility, reduces the fermentation process in the intestines, normalizes the functioning of the central nervous system, tones cardiovascular system, increases bile secretion. Bitter substances stimulate appetite and have a choleretic effect, and tannins have astringent, anti-inflammatory, disinfectant, bacteriostatic, vasoconstrictor, and bactericidal properties. Pinene has an expectorant effect and increases bile secretion; coumarins – antiseptic, astringent, diuretic; borneol – antispasmodic, analgesic, antimicrobial, antipyretic, stimulant, anti-inflammatory; furocoumarin – antitumor activity. In addition, angelica has phytoestrogenic and phytohormonal effects and normalizes a woman’s hormonal balance. Angelica oil has a bactericidal and antispasmodic effect on the respiratory tract. Angelica honey has a tonic, calming, anti-inflammatory, restorative, anti-radiation, antiviral, antibacterial effect, increases physical and mental activity, enhances the body's resistance to toxins, increases immunity, improves memory, lowers blood pressure, restores intestinal microflora, relieves intestinal spasms, normalizes metabolism substances, kidney and liver functioning.

Use in folk medicine

Preparations prepared from the herb and roots of angelica officinalis were used in the old days and are still used in folk medicine. It was used to remove poison from a snake bite. A decoction of the roots of angelica officinalis is used for diseases of the liver, gall bladder, colds, bronchitis, laryngitis, helps with neurosis, pneumonia and flatulence, and the seeds are used as a thoracic, carminative and diuretic. Angelica leaves are used both externally and as a tincture internally. Pounded angelica leaves, mixed in equal quantities with rue leaves and honey, have a wound-healing effect and are used to localize poison in the treatment of bites from rabid animals. Angelica herb is used as an anthelmintic and antirheumatic agent. An infusion of angelica roots is used as a stimulant, diaphoretic, choleretic, diuretic, astringent, expectorant, anthelmintic, tonic and strengthening agent. The tincture is taken orally for bloating, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, epilepsy, hysteria, digestive disorders, dyspepsia, flatulence, inflammation respiratory tract, gastritis, colitis, cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, inflammation of the pancreas, urinary retention, insomnia, nervous disorders (exhaustion), as well as activation of the motor and secretory work of the intestines; externally - for gout, hysteria, rheumatism, toothache and ear pain. The extract is used for rinsing for inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity. Angelica ointment is used in the treatment of skin diseases and festering old wounds. Preparations from the fruits of angelica relieve cramps and remove bile. Typhoid fever, cholera, scarlet fever and measles were treated with flowering stems. Angelica root was part of theriac, a remedy that for many centuries was considered a universal medicine.

Historical reference

Angelica has long been known as a medicinal plant; it was introduced to Central Europe in the 14th century. The plant was bred mainly in monasteries; the monks of the Benedictine Order, who sold candied angelica and Benedikten liqueur, were especially famous for its processed products. The generic scientific name of the plant, Angelica, comes from Lat. angelus - “angel”, “God’s messenger”, Avid’s epithet archangelica - from archangelus - “archangel” - senior angel. According to legend on medicinal properties The angel pointed out the plants. According to this legend, Archangel Michael advised the monks to chew the roots of this plant to protect themselves from the plague. According to another legend, the name is explained by the fact that the plant has the most pronounced medicinal properties among the representatives of the genus Angelica, just as the archangel is the eldest among the angels. There is also an interpretation that the generic and specific definition translated from Greek is “angel-archangel”, since according to Christian myth this divine spirit brought the root of angelica officinalis to Earth, which he then began to use to treat the plague.

Literature

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Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, Professor of the department. Vegetable Growing RGAU-Moscow Agricultural Academy named after K.A. Timiryazeva

The Greeks and Romans did not know about this plant, since it is found in the wild in Northern Europe. In Scandinavia, back in the 12th century, it was used as a vegetable. It was recommended by 16th-century herbalists for the plague. The name of the plant in European languages ​​is also connected with this. Latin name sort of Angelica comes from Latin angelus- angel. This is due to the fact that, according to European legends, during the great plague epidemic in Europe in 1374, the Archangel Gabriel pointed to this plant as a means of salvation. IN German For example, angelica is called Engelwurz - angelic root or Heiliggeistwurzel - root of the holy spirit. They believed that it was necessary to wipe the skin with vinegar infused with angelica. At the same time, the same remedy is recommended against the evil eye and evil spirits. According to the second version, the name of the plant is due to the fact that in European countries it blooms on the day of the Archangel Michael - May 8.

(syn. angelica officinalis, angelica medicinal, angelica vulgaris) - Angelicaarchangelica (Archangelicaofficinalis) distributed in the European part of Russia, the North Caucasus, and Western Siberia. Grows in forest and steppe zones in flooded meadows, swampy forests and near swamps. Sometimes it forms thickets. It grows wild in Northern Europe and the European part of Russia. It is cultivated in European Union countries. In Asian countries, local species are used along with this species, but this is a separate discussion.

There are two subspecies, Angelicaarchangelica subsp. archangelica And Angelicaarchangelica subsp. litoralis, which differ in the shape of the root, peduncles, stipules and seeds.

Chemical composition and properties

Angelica root contains 0.35-1.3% essential oil, the European Pharmacopoeia allows no less than 0.2%. The essential oil contains β-phellandrene (13-28%), α-phellandrene (2-14%), α-pinene (14-31%). In addition, about 50 more components were discovered, including: monoterpenes (β-pinene, sabinene, δ3-carene, myrcene, limonene) and sesquiterpenes (β-bisabolene, bisabolol, β-caryophyllene). In addition, the raw material contains furocoumarins (angelin, bergapten, isoimperatrin, xanthoxin), coumarins (archangelicin, ostenol, osthole, umbelliferone), malic, valeric, tartaric, citric, angelic and fumaric acids, phenolcarboxylic acids (caffeic, chlorogenic), sterols ( β-sitosterol, β-sitosterol arachinate, β-sitosterol palmitate) resins and flavonoids, as well as phenylpropanamides, which inhibit the development Helicobacterpylori causing the development of stomach ulcers.

Angelica fruits contain about 1.5% essential oil, which in itself is an expensive commercial product, as well as coumarins and furocoumarins (angelicin, apterin, bergapten, xanthoxin).

Dried fruits are used in folk medicine for indigestion, kidney disease and rheumatoid diseases.

The essential oil from the fruit consists mainly of terpene compounds: α-pinene (11%), β-phellandrene, and also caryophyllene. In addition, coumarins were also found in the oil.

At the same time, their essential oil is obtained from the roots by hydrodistillation. It is usually obtained from dried roots, the yield is 0.35-1.0%. 90% of the essential oil consists of terpenes (terpinene - 80-90%, β-phellandrene - 13-20%, α-phellandrene - 2-14%, α-pinene -14-31%).

In some cases, leaves are used that contain about 0.1% essential oil, which includes β-phellandrene (33.8%), α-pinene (27%), β-pinene (29.3%), and furocoumarins (angelicin, bergapten, imperatorin, oxyudanine). In folk medicine it is used for digestive disorders and diseases. gastrointestinal tract. The daily dose - 1 tablespoon per glass of water - is brewed and taken in three doses half an hour before meals.

In some cases, the herb is used in folk medicine as a diuretic.

Medicinal properties

The main type of medicinal raw materials are roots, which are used as an antispasmodic, diaphoretic, and anti-inflammatory agent. Indications for use: lack of appetite, dyspeptic symptoms, mild gastrointestinal spasms, feeling of fullness and bloating.

Angelica roots are used in the distillery industry for the production of liqueurs, in particular, “Benedictine”, “Chartreuse”, as well as “Erofeich” bitters.

A decoction and infusion of angelica roots and rhizomes is used for nervous exhaustion, acute and chronic neuralgia, rheumatism, gout, lumbago, catarrhal symptoms of the upper respiratory tract, laryngitis, bronchitis, excessive fermentation in the gastrointestinal tract, chronic gastritis with secretory insufficiency.

Infusion prepared from 1 tablespoon of crushed roots and a glass of boiling water, infusing the mixture for 1 hour. After straining, the infusion is taken 100 ml 3 times a day for hypocidal gastritis, to enhance the motor function of the stomach, and for insomnia at night.

For biliary dyskinesia, angelica roots should be crushed into powder and taken 1 coffee spoon 3 times a day with warm water. This remedy increases the secretion of bile, enhances peristalsis and suppresses fermentation and putrefactive processes in the intestines. You can use angelica by mixing it with equal parts by weight of burdock roots and agrimony grass.

It is better to apply externally alcohol tincture from seeds. The use of seeds in this case is explained by their higher content of essential oil, which has therapeutic effect for joint diseases. 3 tablespoons of seeds are poured into 200 ml of vodka and left in a dark place for 2 weeks. The resulting tincture is filtered and used for rubbing sore joints and for radiculitis.

For internal use, crushed roots are infused in vodka in a ratio of 1:10 for 2 weeks. The strained tincture is taken 30-40 drops 3 times a day for joint diseases.

In a mixture with other plants, angelica officinalis is used for prostatitis and as a tonic.

Growing

Angelica is very frost-resistant and its cultivation does not encounter problems. But at the same time she presents high requirements to soil fertility, depth of arable horizon and moisture.

Varieties known in Europe are Sächsische (Germany, 1945), Jizerka (Czechoslovakia, 1952), Budakalaszi (Hungary, 1959). Currently, good breeding samples with a high essential oil content have been obtained in Bavaria.

Angelica is grown both by direct sowing in the ground and through seedlings. Sowing is carried out with seeds freshly harvested in July, before they fall into a dormant state. Shoots appear in approximately 4 weeks.

For growing seedlings, the preferred time frame is from mid-February to early April, with preliminary soaking of the seeds for 10-14 days in a cold and ventilated room, but without freezing.

After the emergence of seedlings, liquid fertilizers are applied 2 weeks later, a 0.1% solution of complex mineral fertilizers.

It is possible to grow angelica with late summer sowing. With such sowing, some plants may bloom already at next year. In this case, you need to remove the peduncles.

Diseases and pests: true and downy mildew, rhizoctinia, rust. Pests include spider mites, horseflies, and field mice.

Before digging up the roots, cut off the above-ground mass as low as possible. Digging up the roots can be done with a potato digger or beet harvester. Dig at a depth of at least 30 cm. Productivity ranges from 12 to 22 t/ha of fresh roots.

In Europe, in the Alps, there is angelica silica, or angelica (Angelicasylvestris), the roots of which contain essential oil, coumarins and furocoumarins.

This is a biennial herbaceous plant with a thick, short rhizome and an erect, hollow inside stem with a red color at the joint of the leaves. The height of the plant is usually about 1.5 m, but on fertile, loose and well-moistened soils it can reach 2.5 m. The basal leaves are double or triple pinnate, the upper ones with a sheath hugging the stem. It blooms in June-July of the second year of life with white flowers collected in complex umbels. The seeds ripen in August and are fragrant oval double seeds. All parts of the plant have a specific odor.

It grows in broad-leaved, small-leaved and mixed forests, in wet meadows. The plant does not form thickets and occurs in single specimens.

Just like angelica officinalis, almost all parts are used - roots, shoots, fruits. In folk medicine, it is used for coughs, digestive disorders and spasms, as well as for neuroses and insomnia. Externally used for joint pain in the form of rubbing, compresses and baths.

Infusion prepared from 1 tablespoon of crushed roots and 100 ml of cold boiled water. Leave for 2 hours, then add another 200 ml of water and heat in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Take 50 ml for bronchitis and general weakness.

For biliary dyskinesia it is used infusion 20 g of roots per 1 liter of boiling water, which is infused for 2 hours. After straining, take the infusion 1 glass 3 times a day, like tea.

Angelica silica increases blood clotting, increases the secretion of gastric juice and is therefore contraindicated in cases of thrombosis and people suffering from hyperacidity (with increased acidity gastric juice) gastritis.

Angelica officinalis. Botanical illustration from the book “Flora von Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz” by O. V. Thome, 1885.

Angelica, according to the classification of Carl Linnaeus, received the name “Angelica archangelica”, which literally translated sounds like “angel-archangel plant”. The grass earned this honor thanks to an amazing legend. The Almighty, seeing how the plague was raging on earth, sent an archangel with angelica root to give salvation to humanity. This is just a legend. But studying the medicinal properties of angelica, you completely agree with the amazing name. Although, modern scientists remind that while admiring the healing qualities, one should not discount the contraindications of angelica.

Botanical characteristics

The biennial plant, called angelica by botanists, belongs to the Umbelliferae family. The plant is most often found in swamps, forest ravines, birch-coniferous and spruce plantings. The plant has a pleasant smell that does not allow angelica to go unnoticed. The botanical features of angelica are described below.

• Stem. An erect shoot can reach two meters. But at the same time it is very light, since it is hollow inside. The bare stem of angelica is cylindrical in shape and often has small brown or reddish stripes. The shoot has a characteristic mucous coating.
• Leaves . The pinnate leaves are divided into two or three segments. At the very root, near the ground, they form a rosette. These leaves are characterized by long petioles.
• Flowers. A complex inflorescence appears at the top of the angelica stem. This is a large umbrella, reaching a diameter of 20 cm. The inflorescence itself is a collection of many small rays, at the ends of which inconspicuous, light green flowers bloom. Angelica blooms throughout the summer, but only in the second year.
• Fruits. Around the end of August, the flowers produce flat, winged fruits. They ripen and break into halves, from which about 500 g of angelica seeds are poured onto the ground.
• Root. The plant has a powerful and thick root (its diameter can reach 8 cm), extending vertically downwards. Many branches extend from the main rod. On average, the weight of the rhizome is 300 g.

Chemical composition

Returning to the legend, it should be noted that scientists do not consider angelica a medicine that can cure the plague. However, they assure that the plant could really help patients survive by providing antiseptic, anti-inflammatory effects and activating immune defense. The beneficial properties of angelica are dictated by its rich chemical composition, which is reflected in the table.

Table - Composition and medicinal effects of angelica

The beneficial properties of angelica root include phytoestrogenic effects. It is thanks to this that it restores hormonal balance. However, the herb does not contain hormones. The plant only imitates the effect of estrogen, but thereby angelica ensures the normalization of the functioning of the woman’s reproductive system. This effect is complemented by vitamins A, E, B12, C and many useful minerals.

The healing properties of angelica

Based on the chemical composition, we can conclude that the medicinal properties of angelica officinalis are multifaceted. Traditional healers believe that there is no disease for which angelica would not be beneficial. That's why medicines It is recommended to use it for a wide variety of pathologies. Most often, the following conditions serve as indications for the use of angelica officinalis in folk medicine:

• biliary dyskinesia;
• kidney disease;
• colitis, gastritis, duodenitis, flatulence, belching;
• bronchitis, laryngitis, pneumonia, flu, colds;
• pain (ear, dental, migraine);
• skin diseases (neurodermatitis, vitiligo, itchy dermatitis);
• dysmenorrhea, mastopathy, PMS, infertility, menopause;
• pathologies of the cardiovascular system.

Contraindications

Angelica should not be considered a completely safe remedy. This root can cause serious harm to the body. Unpleasant consequences usually occur as a result of non-compliance with dosages or ignoring contraindications.

In order not to experience the harm of angelica, do not take medicines based on it in the following conditions:

• individual intolerance;
• severe uterine bleeding;
• diabetes;
• tachycardia;
• tendency to bleed;
• stomach ulcers;
• pregnancy.

Angelica root has photosensitizing properties. In other words, during treatment with angelica preparations, the following may be observed: side effects as an increase in sensitivity to light. Therefore, using the plant before going out into the sun is strictly prohibited. Abuse of the drug can cause symptoms of poisoning:

• vomiting;
• headache;
• loose stools;
• sometimes loss of consciousness and even paralysis.

Angelica root has abortive properties, so it is contraindicated for expectant mothers. It is strictly forbidden to use the herb to terminate a pregnancy. Such activities usually lead to severe intoxication and negative effects on the central nervous system.

Medicines based on angelica

Angelica root is appreciated by official medicine and recommended for the treatment of many ailments. Dry raw materials for decoctions or baths can be purchased at the pharmacy. In demand medicinal root in homeopathy. Based on angelica, specialists produce effective expectorants, anti-inflammatory drugs, and diuretics. To prepare healing remedies at home, use the following recipes.

Infusion

Peculiarities . The healing remedy will help restore the functioning of the digestive tract. The infusion can be used in gynecology to treat inflammatory diseases. It is recommended to take the drug from angelica root three to four times a day, half a glass.

Components:

• angelica root - 20 g;
• water - 1 l.

Preparation

1. The root is slightly crushed.
2. It is placed in a bowl and poured with boiling water.
3. This drink is infused for eight hours.
4. Strain.

Remedy from all parts

Peculiarities . The drug will be beneficial for intestinal spasms. The infusion stimulates the appetite and cleanses the intestines of harmful bacteria and gas accumulation. This remedy can also be used for colds. Recipes that include all parts of angelica are recommended for the treatment of pathologies respiratory system. The infusion helps with cholecystitis, is useful for inflammation of the pancreas, and removes gallstones. Usually prescribed half a glass three times a day.

Components:

• angelica root - one tablespoon;
• seeds - one tablespoon;
• leaves (crushed) - one tablespoon;
• water - three glasses.

Preparation

1. All three dry ingredients are crushed and mixed.
2. Medicinal raw materials are poured with boiling water.
3. Cover the container and infuse the drink for six hours.
4. Be sure to filter.

This infusion of angelica can be used as medicinal baths for joint diseases or muscle pain. As reviews show, it helps to cope with discomfort caused by gout, radiculitis, rheumatism, and arthritis.

Tincture

Peculiarities . For the treatment of colitis, flatulence, gastritis with high acidity, it is recommended to prepare an alcohol tincture of angelica. This medicine is used to treat cardiac pathologies and diseases of the respiratory system. Use it three times a day, 20 drops. The solution is used not only internally, but also externally, as a rub for diseases of the joints and muscle tissue.

Components:

• angelica root - 200 g;
• vodka - 0.5 l.

Preparation

1. Dry raw materials are crushed.
2. The root is placed in a jar and filled with vodka.
3. The mixture is infused for two weeks, exposing the jar to the sun.
4. Then the tincture is filtered.

This tincture can be taken for weight loss. To get rid of extra pounds, it is recommended to take the drug half a teaspoon three times a day. This technique is repeated for ten days.

Angelica vodka

Peculiarities . This is another type of angelica tincture with vodka. This drink is recommended for nervous exhaustion, for the treatment of intestinal pathologies and ailments of the respiratory system. Angelica vodka cleanses the body of helminths. I use it to treat infertility and restore the body during menopause. It is recommended to consume one tablespoon three times a day. The duration of treatment is 40 days. Women should definitely take a break from therapy during menstruation to avoid causing heavy bleeding.

Components:

• angelica root - 100 g;
• vodka - 1 l.

Preparation

1. The root is crushed and poured with vodka.
2. The drink is infused in the dark for 21 days.
3. Shake the tincture periodically.
4. The medicine is filtered.

Women should take a pregnancy test before taking any angelica remedy. If there is even the slightest possibility of an “interesting situation,” then be sure to refrain from therapy. Ignoring this recommendation is very dangerous for both the woman herself and the fetus.

Decoction

Peculiarities . A decoction of angelica roots will help with liver and gall diseases. This medicine is recommended for the treatment of colds, bronchitis, and laryngitis. The drink is often recommended as a strong analgesic that relieves dental, joint, muscle and headache pain. It is recommended to consume 130 ml of the decoction, exclusively hot, twice a day after meals.

Components:

• angelica roots - three tablespoons;
• boiling water - 200 ml.

Preparation

1. The roots are crushed and placed in a saucepan.
2. The raw materials are poured with boiling water.
3. Cover the pan with a lid and place in a water bath.
4. The broth is simmered over low heat for half an hour.
5. Then the slightly cooled solution is filtered.
6. The broth is diluted with clean boiled water to obtain 250 ml.

Juice

Peculiarities . Angelica juice helps in the treatment of pancreatitis and jaundice. To do this, it is recommended to take the drug three times a day, a teaspoon, for three weeks. Fresh juice will help relieve ear pain. To do this, three drops are instilled into each ear twice a day. To cope with toothache, it is recommended to drop one drop of medicinal juice into the hollow.

Components:

• fresh angelica root.

Preparation

1. The fresh root is crushed.
2. The mixture is wrapped in gauze and the juice is squeezed out.

Honey: product value and its use

Special healing power has angelica honey. This product has a greenish color and a rather specific aroma. Honey is considered a strong antispasmodic. In addition, it strengthens nervous system and has a beneficial effect on the heart. The sweet product will help women normalize their cycle. And for men it is recommended as a means of increasing potency. Traditional medicine recommends taking angelica honey for people suffering from:

• nervous exhaustion;
• insomnia;
• ischemia, myocardial dystrophy;
• atherosclerosis;
• gastritis, enteritis, colitis, constipation;
• gingivitis, stomatitis, periodontal disease.

To normalize heart function, restore the functioning of the digestive tract and improve the condition of blood vessels, you need to drink a glass of honey water in the morning on an empty stomach. To prepare it in warm water add a tablespoon of sweet product. For insomnia, evening use of angelica honey is recommended. To restore sleep, you need to eat one teaspoon of angelica product and immediately go to bed.

Plant oil: methods of use

Essential oil is produced from angelica roots or seeds. Healing properties both products are endowed. But root oil is characterized by a phototoxic effect. Therefore, it is practically not used for cosmetic purposes. Angelica oil is used as follows.

• Against cough . Mix two drops of essential oil with a tablespoon olive oil. This mixture needs to be massaged chest for diseases of the respiratory system, which are characterized by stagnation of sputum.
• For inhalations. Two drops of angelica oil are added to hot water. It is recommended to breathe in such vapors when you have a runny nose, cough, sore throat, or cold.
• In cosmetology. Angelica essential oil is recommended for the treatment of acne, irritation, and rejuvenation of the dermis. The oil helps protect against bacteria, fungi, and is used in the treatment of dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema. The easiest method of application is to add a few drops to your lotion or face cream.

Before using the oil, be sure to conduct an allergy test. Angelica essential oil is highly allergenic. And abuse of the product can lead to the development of insomnia or nervous overexcitation.

The benefits of angelica herb continue to be studied today by scientists around the world. Therefore, one should not discount such a unique plant, which can help in the treatment of many pathologies. And to prevent the development of diseases, drink angelica tea from time to time, adding medicinal root to green tea or combining it with herbs: fireweed, linden, St. John's wort.

Reviews: “Angelica helped with terrible attacks of dry cough”

I recently bought and drank a decoction of the angelica officinalis plant. The result is amazing. This is a very good tonic and healing remedy. Its medicinal raw materials are roots with a very aromatic odor and the most useful composition. I was convinced from my own experience that angelica treats inflammation, it heals wounds and helps with fermentation in the intestines.

Antonina2015, http://otzyvy.pro/reviews/otzyvy-dyagil-108867.html

Angelica very quickly helped me with terrible attacks (almost to the point of vomiting) of a dry cough left after a cold. I coughed for almost 2 months. Nothing helped. I decided to try Angelica. I did inhalation + rubbing before bed and in the morning, chest and back with a 20% solution of Angelica and Jojoba. Then for about 5 more days I added 1 drop of Angelica to the massage mixture and made 2 more inhalations with Angelica. The cough stopped after the 3rd inhalation.

telepat-z, http://forum.aromarti.ru/showthread.php?t=265

I tried angelica in an anti-varicose mixture, it was very impressive, small blood vessels appeared on my legs, the so-called mesh, and so unexpectedly, first a bruise, and then, looking closer, I saw a vascular mesh, well, in general, this is where it all begins. I made a mixture with angelica, almost all the vessels resolved, the large ones did not, of course, but still.

Albina, http://www.forum-aromashka.ru/topic/412-djagil-angelica-archangelica/

Angelica silica(other names: angelica, angelica) belongs to the umbelliferous family. A biennial or perennial herbaceous plant, 70 to 200 cm high, with a very thick, strong rhizome.

Features: stem – smooth, shiny, greenish-gray, pubescent under the umbel, branched at the top; leaves are very large, double or triple pinnate with ovate lobes, the lower ones are on long petioles, the upper ones are sessile; flowers are small, white with a pinkish tint, collected in a multi-rayed hemispherical umbrella with a diameter of 7 to 15 cm; The fruits are broadly oval two-seeded.

Blooms in July - the first half of August, grows in forest glades, edges, clearings, tall grass meadows and swamps.

Compound

Angelica is valued as a source of vitamin C and minerals. The green parts contain 75 mg% ascorbic acid, 1.7 mg% calcium, 0.4 mg% phosphorus, 4.4 mg% manganese, 1.76 mg% copper, 0.55 mg% boron, 0.14 mg% titanium. Angelica also contains essential oils, tannins, valeric acid, coumarins, which determine the medicinal properties of this plant.

Collection

Young leaves, stems, petioles, and unopened flower buds are collected for food; best time collection - from late May to mid-June. Young stems are peeled and eaten raw, added to vegetable salads. The leaves and petioles are dried, pickled, salted, and in winter they are used to season soups, sauces, and added as a side dish to main courses. Candied fruits are prepared from the petioles and stems of young plants, which are served as desserts and used to decorate cakes. Unopened flowers are considered a special delicacy. They are boiled in salted water, fried and served for dessert. Angelica buds are boiled in sugar syrup, placed on a sieve and eaten candied as candied fruits.

Healing properties

Angelica also has medicinal properties. By recipes traditional medicine A decoction of the root is drunk for persistent bronchitis, abdominal colic, and severe diarrhea. In the latter case, for a more strengthening effect, it is useful to combine angelica herb with rhizome and oak bark. A teaspoon of these three components (1:1:1) is poured into a glass of boiling water, left for 30 minutes and drunk ½ cup 3 times a day.

Application

Angelica is also used as a diuretic, disinfectant and appetite improver. Tea is brewed from the rhizomes (20 g per 1 liter of water) and consumed for intestinal bloating and urinary retention; for catarrh of the lungs, tea helps remove sticky and viscous sputum.

Angelica officinalis

Another variety of angelica – angelica grass, or Angelica officinalis, is also very common in the European part of the country. This biennial herbaceous plant is even larger in size.

Features: stem – very thick (up to 5...6 cm in the lower part), round, hollow, often has a reddish tint, 1.5...2.5 meters high; leaves are very large, up to 80 cm in diameter, two- and three-pinnate with sharp-toothed edges, with long cylindrical petioles; the flowers are small, whitish-green with a yellow tint, united in a spherical multi-rayed umbrella, with a strong aroma, and are a good honey plant (up to 300 kg of honey per 1 ha). Flowering time – July – August.

In some areas, angelica is cultivated for a variety of uses: for beekeeping, the pharmaceutical industry, food and feed purposes.

Application and beneficial properties

Angelica roots are dug up in the fall, dried and ground into powder, which is added for flavoring to various meat and fish dishes, sauces and even dough. For the same purpose, in the fall you can collect seeds, the addition of which to various home-cooked products significantly improves their taste and smell, and promotes more complete absorption of food.

Medicinal properties angelica and angelica are similar in many ways. IN chemical composition plants include sugars, starch, fatty oil, wax, essential oils, tannins, organic acids, coumarins.

The roots and rhizomes of angelica are used as a diuretic, choleretic, diaphoretic and expectorant. Infusions are drunk for indigestion, bloating, diarrhea, and bronchitis. Their use is also considered useful for insomnia, nervous exhaustion, hysteria and epilepsy. Infusion recipe: 1 teaspoon of angelica roots pour into 1 glass hot water, leave for an hour, add a spoonful of honey and take ½ cup 3-4 times a day.

Baths with the addition of angelica have a calming effect on the nervous system.

When used for food, angelica is valued more as a spicy-flavoring plant, as well as a source of vitamins, microelements and other biologically active substances. Its roots are rich essential oils(up to 1%), tannins with a strong phytoncidal effect.