Angelica archangelica grows throughout Iceland, though mostly in the south-west regions, primarily around the highlands of Iceland near geothermal areas. It is most commonly found growing near hot springs emerging from lava formations in basalt rock, particularly to the northeast of Lake Mývatn. It can reach heights of around two meters and its bulbous roots can grow up to 10cm in diameter. Throughout the summer the greenish purple flowers bloom, followed by seeds which can be eaten raw or cooked. The roots are often dried and used as a snuff or tincture for colds and flu as well as other respiratory ailments. They can be harvested year round, though October-November is the main season for collection. The plant’s main compound is angelicin, a substance which works by opening pores on the skin allowing it to breathe more easily, reducing inflammation due to buildup of mucous on the surface of the skin. This makes it perfect for treating acne and related skin conditions.
Angelica archangelica is also commonly used to treat stomach ulcers, intestinal worms and other digestive problems by speeding up circulation in the intestines and soothing any inflamed tissue and irritation.
The roots of Angelica archangelica are used in traditional Icelandic herbal medicine as a diuretic, circulatory tonic, and remedy for rheumatism. It is also used for its anti-inflammatory effects on the respiratory system and for its analgesic properties. In Iceland, it is commonly used to treat arthritis and joint pain.
Angelica archangelica has been shown to have potent antioxidant properties, preventing damage from free radicals that can lead to cardiovascular disease. It also possesses anti-tumor properties, and has been used as an alternative cancer treatment in traditional Chinese medicine.
Interesting facts
Alchemists of the Middle Ages and Renaissance believed Angelica archangelica to have mystical powers. Folk historians believe that people might have originally begun using angelica in this way because they noticed that animals whose wounds were treated with the herb seemed to heal more quickly than other animals, which may have led people to believe that it had magical medicinal properties.
Angelica archangelica was once thought to be an effective treatment for plague, cholera, and other infectious diseases. It was used as part of the standard treatment for tuberculosis until the late 1800s.
In medieval times, angelica root was thought to be a cure for everything from rabies to snakebite. In addition, angelica was said to promote prophetic dreams, protect against evil spirits, repel insects and increase male potency. However, its most valuable use as a spice was in flavoring aqua vitae (literally “water of life”), an alcoholic distillation of various herbs and spices including angelica root. The drink became known as “wormwood” because of its bitter taste once the alcohol had been extracted.
This plant gained its name archangelica from its use as a remedy for fevers with chills by European monks who thought it was good luck to grow this plant near their monastery. The name also references its connection with Archangel Michael, the leader of the angels who fought against Satan.
In witchcraft (specifically Wicca), Angelica archangelica is used for spells for protection and banishing evil spirits and demons.
In folklore, it was thought that if you were to pick this plant, you would be cursed by the Fairies. The Fairies were not happy about this plant being picked.
