Angelica herb

Angelica Tea and Its
Many Health Benefits
Published July 15, 2010 by:
Yolanda Triana

The angelica plant is one of the most highly regarded herbs. Steeped in legend and valued for its many medicinal properties, angelica has been used for the past 2,000 years. Many magical claims for this herb have persisted through the years, although its pagan link - protection from the poisons and the spells of witches - is now just folklore.

Today herbalists suggest other, more viable uses of the herb, such as for treating indigestion, fatigue, insomnia and tension. There are many species of the herb; Angelica archangelica is the one used most in Western medicine. Its properties promote digestion, eliminate bloating and relieve cramps. In addition, nervous stomach complaints respond very well to it. Furthermore, angelica tea can stimulate the functions of the gallbladder, the liver and the pancreas. It increases stamina, strengthens the whole body and may help to prevent disease, as well.

Antibacterial pinene is a main component of angelica root's essential oil. The herb also contains bitters, tannins, resins, coumarins, pectin and sugar. The whole plant, the roots, stems and seeds, is a warming expectorant effective for asthma and bronchitis. Angelica also has antiseptic and diuretic properties, which can help treat urinary tract infections.

For Bloating

Angelica tea relieves feelings of fullness and bloating, especially after large meals. When poor digestion, swallowing air while eating, eating too quickly or poor food choices causes gas build up, angelica tea can help to alleviate these uncomfortable symptoms, strengthening normal digestive function at the same time.

For Mood Lifting

Drinking angelica tea may enhance your mood, lift depression and improve general malaise. It also relieves nerve related digestive problems and insomnia due to tension and anxiety.

Tea Preparation
Add 2 teaspoons of angelica root to 1 cup of cold water and bring to a boil under low heat. Boil briefly and then remove from heat. Steep for 5 to 10 minutes and strain. Keep the pot covered while you are steeping the tea so that the essential oils are retained. Drink 1 cup of angelica tea 3 times per day about half hour before meals. You can sweeten the tea with honey if desired.

For Nervous Stomach

2 teaspoons angelica root
2 teaspoons lemon balm leaves
½ teaspoon fennel seed

Bring angelica to a simmer in 4 cups of water. Turn off heat, add the lemon balm and fennel. Steep for 10 minutes and strain. Drink 2 to 3 times a day to relieve indigestion due to nervousness, anxiety and irritability.

A Word of Caution

The furocoumarins in angelica make the skin sensitive to sun and cause irritation. If you have a reaction, avoid sun exposure while drinking angelica tea.

Resources
The Herbal Drugstore, White, Linda B, Foster, Steven M.D., Rodale Inc. 2000