Angelica essential oil is a sweet smelling oil with a herbal scent. It has a spicy undertone to it, and smells like the herb it comes from, Angelica Archangelia. The oil has a medium viscosity, and is distilled from different parts of the herb, including the seeds, rhizome and even the leaves and flowers. Native to Africa, the plant is now grown in many parts of Europe including Scotland, Holland, Germany, Lapland, as well as parts of Asia and the Soviet Union. Interestingly, the plant gets its name since it flowers on (or around) 8th May, which is St. Michael the Archangel’s Day.
Historically, Angelica was used in Chartreuse and Benedictine liqueur. It was also considered and antidote for the plague when the Black Plague swept Europe. Today, it is used to flavour gin, perfumes and traditional candies.
Therapeutic properties
Angelica has many therapeutic and medicinal qualities. The essential oil of this plant is known to be anti-spasmodic, depurative, carminative, digestive, diuretic, digestive, hepatic, emmenagogue, expectorant, nervine, stimulant, stomachic and tonic.
Uses of Angelica oil
- The oil can be used to help treat many illnesses. It is helpful for skin problems like Psoriasis, irritation and dull congested skin. It also helps other, more serious problems like arthritis, rheumatism, gout, water retention, cough and bronchitis. Anemia, flatulence and indigestion, migraine, chronic fatigue, nervous tension and stress can also be eased with this oil.
- The oil boosts the lymphatic system and strengthens the immune system. It can detox the body and help to remove accumulated toxins in the system.
- The oil can be used in vaporisers to clear lungs and ease bronchitis, shortness of breath and asthma. Put a few drops in a vaporizer and inhale. Remember to consult a qualified doctor and aromatherapist before doing this.
- About 10 drops of angelica can be added to a warm bath. This will make a bath that is both soothing and invigorating. It can help detox the system.
- When mixed with a carrier oil, it can be used in a massage. Both the bath and massage will aide the lymphatic system, and fight digestive problems, help with common colds, fight infections and fungal growths and generally give a boost to the body and mind.
- The oil is also contained in some creams or lotions available with aromatherapy practitioners. These can fight arthritis, gout, sciatica, aide circulation, migraines. It also encourages production of oestrogen which regulates periods and makes them less painful.
Precautions
Do not use too much of the oil as it can over stimulate the nervous system. Never apply it directly to the skin. Also, once you apply it, stay away from direct sunlight for a while. Pregnant women and diabetics should not use thi
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