By Sarah LoBisco, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine
January 11th, 2008
Angelica archangelica has been named the “holy spirit root” or the “oil of angels” by the Europeans. It’s tradition exhibits its possession of such strong healing powers, that it was believed to be of divine origin. During the time of Paraceluss, it was chewed as protection from the plague.
Today, it is a well studied herb that confirms ancient wisdom. The therapeutic essential oil of Angelica contains a 60-70% limonene, a monoterpene with many properties. This single constituent has been shown to be chemoprotective, antifungal and a digestive aid through by supporting normal peristalsis soothing symptoms of GERD and heartburn. Also, due to the fact that D-limonene is a solvent of cholesterol, it has also been used to dissolve cholesterol containing gallstones (PMID 18072821, 18072821). Angelica contains various other monoterpenes that contribute to an oil with high antimicrobial activity.
Furthermore, Angelica contains a variety of coumarins. These compounds that are present in Angelica provide anti-tumoral, neuroprotective, antimicrobial and estrogenic properties (PMID 17917255, 17855653, 15813373). The coumarin content also makes Angelica a natural aspirin, meaning it has the ability to prevent clotting of the blood and to reduce inflammation (PMID 885331).
For all the above reasons, Angelica is used for indigestion, menopause, premenstrual tension, respiratory infections, and rheumatic conditions. It’s fragrance has been used to assist in the release of pent-up negative feelings and bringing back memories back to the point of origin before trauma or anger was experienced.
Hint: Although the scientist in me thinks it is fun to see why things work by breaking them down into individual constituents, doing this can also cause one to forget about synergism. Using essential oils in their whole form creates a more powerful effect on the human body yet a gentler approach by decreasing side effects.
Aspirin has been prescribed for years to people at high risk of clotting due to histories of strokes or heart attacks. However:
The main undesirable side effects of aspirin are gastrointestinal distress—including ulcers and stomach bleeding—and tinnitus, especially in higher doses. Another adverse effect is increased bleeding in menstruating women, due to aspirin's anticoagulant properties. In children under 12 years of age, aspirin is no longer used to control flu-like symptoms or the symptoms of chickenpox, due to the risk of Reye's syndrome. (Wikepedia)
Isn’t it interesting that we have an oil that has the ability to act as an anti-coagulant yet SUPPORT the gastrointestinal tract.