ENGLISH NAME: Angelica
LATIN NAME: Angelica archangelica
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Andělika lékařská
Turkey: Melek otu
Bulgaria: Ангелика (Angelika)
Georgia: ანგელიკა (Ang’elika)
COUNTRY: Turkey, Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Highlands, moist meadows, riverbanks
Elevation: 600–1,800 meters
Terrain: Humid, rich, well-drained soils
DESCRIPTION:
This biennial plant is characterized by its striking appearance, featuring large, umbrella-like clusters of small greenish-white flowers. The plant can grow up to several feet in height, with hollow stems and large, pinnately compound leaves.
USABLE PARTS: Root, stem
MEDICINAL PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used to promote digestion and relieve gas. It has anti-inflammatory, carminative, and expectorant properties.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
May cause photosensitivity. Not recommended during pregnancy due to uterine stimulant effects.
COMBINING WITH OTHER MEDICINES:
Can be combined with chamomile or fennel for enhanced digestive support.
PREPARATION:
Roots and stems can be dried and used for teas, tinctures, or culinary applications.
HARVEST TIME:
Late autumn or early spring before the plant flowers.
HARVEST METHOD:
Harvest roots by carefully digging them up. Cut stems just above ground level to ensure sustainability.
CONSERVATION (STORAGE):
Store dried roots and stems in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to preserve flavor and medicinal properties.