Now, this seems like a pretty fun way to start off the month! I went visiting a friend’s place just yesterday. She just got a new place and since she is a lover of gardening, she invited me over, to help choose a few plants for her garden. She had this rather large catalog containing all the plants we could possibly imagine and it took almost the whole day to go through it. After all the forwards and backward, we finally chose the Angelica herb; not just because of the name which is extremely interesting, but because of its numerous health benefits. I’ll tell you some of the things we discovered. Let’s get talking!
What Exactly Is this Herb?
Let’s start from here. Many persons have never seen, heard or come across this herb before now. In fact, there are so many beneficial herbs and plants that it is so easy to let a few of them slip past; without having the slightest idea of the great stuff they can do to your body; health wise.
Forget about all the dreamy fairytale that the name of this herb conveys, the Angelica root is actually a strong herb with an even stronger presence. It is botanically referred to as Angelica archangelica (talk about being a real angel) and is mainly cultivated for its edible stems and roots that have a sweet scent. It belongs to the Apiaceae plant family and may also be referred to as Wild celery, Norwegian angelica or Garden angelica.
Where Does it Come from?
Good question! The herb is said to have been first found in the far North of Siberia and the Lapland. After some time, however, it seems the herb got a bit tired of the North and decided to spread its tentacles southward. And the persons in the South sure loved it!
Some Myths and Legends?
There are a lot of questions that come up when the Angelica herb is mentioned. One of such has to do with its connection to the monastery. According to legend, the discovery of this miracle herb was a divine one. Legend has it that the herb was first discovered by a sleeping monk. The monk says he was visited by the third member of the Christian trinity, the Holy Spirit, and shown the protective powers of the herb ― Just like that! The herb is angelic, after all.
There are other myths that surround the potency and efficacy of the herb. In the North where it originated from, the plant was thought to be an ancient power that could ward off evil spirits and wicked sorcery. In summary, the plant is believed to provide protection from every form of evil.
Cultivation?
Apparently yes! Even though the herb can be found in the wilds, some persons like my friend would not want to go into the woods before they can have a feel of the angelic herb. For this reason, they prefer to grow the plant in their home gardens. The question now is: How can they go about this? It’s pretty easy; I’ll tell you how!
The best way to go about it is to allow the plant to self-seed. In other words, it is to allow the plant to germinate on its own. Simply mulch the area around the plant. This will enable the seeds to have direct contact with the soil. When the flower head of the aged plant becomes spent, do not cut it off. Instead, leave it as this will allow the seeds on the flower head to become matured. Remember to take care of the seeds; if you do this well enough, you can prepare to enjoy this herb all year. The seeds will germinate in springtime.
One of the reasons my friend and I fell in love with this plant is because of its multipurpose nature. Apparently, every part of the plant is useful; health wise, and can be used to make medicine. In addition, the plant also has a magical side to it. I’ll tell you five amazing health benefits of consuming the Angelica herb. Let’s get talking.
Dealing with the Cold
A bad cold can ruin your day and put you off your daily activities. Say goodbye to the cold with angelica root. The root of the plant has a long history of use in terms of colds. Researchers say that the root has a warm and stimulating effect on the body and this helps to clear chest congestions and keeps your body warm.
What about Childbirth?
Childbirth is a wonderful and intense period in a woman’s life. The Angelica herb, however, can make it even more wonderful. Traditionally referred to as a birthing herb, the root of the plant can be used to induce delayed labor. It also helps the body expel the afterbirth, that is, the placenta; after childbirth.
Helping your Digestive System
The bitter nature of the herb makes it a go-to for digestion related issues and disorders. Researchers say that the herb; especially its root, can be used to improve appetite and digestion. In addition, it is useful in dealing with gastrointestinal issues as it helps to slow down the production of intestinal gas in the stomach.
In addition, it stimulates the increased production of stomach acids and this helps to kill different bacteria that are responsible for gastrointestinal infections and disorders.
What happens to your Heart?
Heartburns and other cardiovascular conditions can be taken care of by consuming the root of this herb. Researchers say that the plant contains many of the calcium compounds that are necessary for your heart’s health.
A Healthier Skin
You know that having a healthy skin is a big deal. This is why many persons do a whole lot to make sure their skins glow and look healthy. Forget cosmetics, the Angelica herb can be used to treat several skin conditions and make your skin look healthy. It can also be used as a facial cleanser. It removes acne from your skin and prevents them from showing up again.
The herb is useful in hair loss treatments and in body detoxification. It can also keep arthritis away.
Heads Up!
This herb sure has a plethora of health benefits. Just before you dig into its roots or other parts of the plants, you may need to read this first ― the herb may not just be for everyone!
First of all, it is important to note that using the plant in recommended doses may not lead to anything abnormal. However, large doses of Angelica may spell doom for you. The root of the plant is considered poisonous; especially when it is fresh. As such, you should dry the root well before making any supplements out of it.
Pregnant and nursing mothers are advised to stay away from the herb. This is the same for children below the age of two. In addition, persons who have other health conditions such as stomach ulcers and diabetes should not ingest any part of the plant.
Recommended Dosage
Knowing that consuming large quantities of the Angelica herb can spell doom for you, it is important you consume the herb in the right quantity. Experts recommend that you boil a teaspoon of the dried Angelica root and decant for the maximum effect.
What’s with Angelica and Magic?
The major reason the ancient folks were crazy about this herb is that they believed the herb is believed to be magical. The plant is linked to some form of angelic folklore. It is also believed to be a strong talisman against evil spirits, witchcraft, and spirits. It is believed to protect newborns and women from unruly, dangerous men. It is also linked to some African voodoo traditions.
Final Words…
Certainly, the Angelica herb is something to have in your garden. I took a few seeds from my friend and I am already preparing the moist soil for them. You should get some too. Your garden would thank you!
