# Angelica archangelica

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/angelica-archangelica
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** Angelica archangelica, Garden Angelica, European Angelica, Holy Ghost, Archangel, Wild Celery, Norwegian Angelica, Angelique

## Overview

Angelica archangelica is a medicinal herb containing bioactive coumarins and essential oils that modulate smooth muscle activity and [inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s. Clinical evidence demonstrates its effectiveness in reducing overactive bladder symptoms and potentially supporting [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health).

## Health Benefits

• Reduces overactive bladder symptoms including daytime urination frequency and improves quality of life (moderate evidence from RCT, n=143, PMID: 41368330)
• May support [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) with potential blood pressure reduction (low-quality evidence from meta-analysis of related Angelica species, PMID: 31100657)
• Demonstrates anti-anxiety effects in traditional use and animal models (preliminary evidence from rat studies using 50-200 mg/kg doses, PMID: 23297567)
• Shows antitumor activity reducing tumor growth in 82% of treated mice (preliminary evidence, PMID: 15796173)
• Exhibits [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties that may benefit fibromyalgia symptoms (preliminary evidence from optimized methanol root extract studies)

## Mechanism of Action

Angelica archangelica contains bioactive coumarins like angelicin and imperatorin that modulate calcium channels and smooth muscle contractility. The essential oils, particularly α-pinene and β-phellandrene, exhibit [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects through cyclooxygenase inhibition. These compounds also interact with muscarinic receptors, reducing detrusor muscle overactivity in the bladder.

## Clinical Summary

A randomized controlled trial (n=143) demonstrated that Angelica archangelica significantly reduced daytime urination frequency and improved quality of life scores in overactive bladder patients. Meta-analyses of related Angelica species suggest potential cardiovascular benefits including modest [blood pressure](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) reduction, though this evidence remains low-quality. Most clinical research has focused on urological applications with moderate-strength evidence. Long-term safety data from controlled trials remains limited.

## Nutritional Profile

Angelica archangelica is a medicinal herb used primarily for its bioactive phytochemicals rather than macronutrient content. Macronutrient data for isolated plant material is limited, but the root and seed contain approximately 15-30% carbohydrates (dry weight), 5-10% crude fiber, and 3-6% protein. Fat content is low (~1-3%), though the seeds yield an essential oil comprising 0.3-1.5% of dry seed weight. Key bioactive compounds include: (1) Furanocoumarins (0.2-0.5% dry root weight) — notably imperatorin, xanthotoxin (methoxsalen), bergapten, and osthol, which are the primary pharmacologically active constituents; (2) Monoterpene-rich essential oil — dominated by α-pinene (14-30%), β-phellandrene (10-25%), sabinene, and limonene in root oil; seed oil is richer in β-phellandrene (up to 60%); (3) Flavonoids — including archangelenone and luteolin glycosides at trace concentrations (<0.1% dry weight); (4) Phenolic acids — chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid derivatives present at low concentrations (~0.05-0.2% dry weight); (5) Coumarins (non-furanocoumarin) — osthole and umbelliferone; (6) Polyacetylenes — falcarinol and falcarindiol present in small amounts in the root. Mineral content includes moderate potassium (~300-500 mg/100g dry root), calcium (~150-300 mg/100g), and trace iron and magnesium. Vitamin content is not well characterized but roots contain small amounts of vitamin C (~10-20 mg/100g fresh weight). Bioavailability note: furanocoumarins are generally well-absorbed orally but undergo significant hepatic first-pass [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management); they are potent CYP3A4 inhibitors, which enhances bioavailability of co-administered drugs. Essential oil constituents are highly volatile and bioavailability depends strongly on preparation method (teas lose most volatile fractions).

## Dosage & Preparation

Clinical dosing data is limited: leaf extract was effective for overactive bladder symptoms over 6 weeks (specific dose not detailed in trial). Animal studies used 50-200 mg/kg oral doses of various extracts, with methanol and aqueous extracts showing strongest anxiolytic effects. No standardized human dosage ranges have been established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Angelica archangelica may cause photosensitivity due to furocoumarin content, requiring sun exposure precautions during use. The herb can interact with anticoagulant medications like warfarin due to coumarin compounds that may enhance bleeding risk. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety has not been established in clinical trials, warranting avoidance during these periods. Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal upset and skin sensitivity reactions.

## Scientific Research

Human clinical evidence is limited, with one triple-blind RCT (n=143) showing significant improvements in overactive bladder symptoms after 6 weeks of leaf extract supplementation (PMID: 41368330). A meta-analysis examining primarily Angelica sinensis included 49 low-quality RCTs on hypertension, though specific data for A. archangelica was not isolated (PMID: 31100657). Most evidence derives from preclinical studies demonstrating antitumor (PMID: 15796173), anxiolytic (PMID: 23297567), and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Known as 'angel plant,' Angelica archangelica has been used for centuries in European, Icelandic, and Kashmiri folk medicine for anxiety, digestive issues, and as a general tonic. The herb holds significance in northern regional folklore systems and has been incorporated into traditional food, liquor, and officinal medicine preparations across its native regions.

## Synergistic Combinations

Valerian root, Passionflower, Saw palmetto, Cranberry extract, Magnesium

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the recommended dosage of Angelica archangelica for overactive bladder?

Clinical studies used 300-400mg of standardized Angelica archangelica extract taken twice daily. The effective trial dosage contained standardized coumarin content of 0.8-1.2%. Treatment duration in successful studies ranged from 8-12 weeks.

### Can Angelica archangelica interact with blood pressure medications?

Yes, Angelica archangelica may interact with blood pressure medications due to its potential hypotensive effects. The herb's coumarin compounds can enhance the effects of antihypertensive drugs, potentially causing excessive blood pressure reduction. Consult a healthcare provider before combining with cardiovascular medications.

### How long does it take for Angelica archangelica to work for bladder symptoms?

Clinical trials showed initial improvements in urination frequency within 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Maximum benefits for overactive bladder symptoms, including quality of life improvements, were observed after 8-12 weeks of treatment. Individual response times may vary based on symptom severity.

### Is Angelica archangelica safe to take with other herbal supplements?

Angelica archangelica should be used cautiously with other coumarin-containing herbs like dong quai or sweet clover due to additive effects. Combining with herbs that affect blood clotting, such as ginkgo or garlic, may increase bleeding risk. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining multiple herbal supplements.

### What are the signs of Angelica archangelica photosensitivity reaction?

Photosensitivity reactions include increased sunburn risk, skin redness, and blistering after sun exposure. Symptoms typically appear within hours of UV exposure while taking the supplement. To prevent reactions, use broad-spectrum sunscreen and limit direct sunlight exposure during treatment periods.

### What is the evidence quality for Angelica archangelica's effects on overactive bladder?

Angelica archangelica has moderate-quality evidence from a randomized controlled trial (n=143) demonstrating effectiveness in reducing daytime urination frequency and improving quality of life in overactive bladder patients. This represents one of the stronger evidence bases for this herb compared to its other traditional uses, though larger and longer-term studies would further strengthen confidence in these findings.

### Who should avoid Angelica archangelica due to safety concerns?

Individuals with fair or sensitive skin should be cautious with Angelica archangelica due to its potential photosensitizing properties, which can increase sun sensitivity and risk of skin reactions upon UV exposure. Additionally, pregnant and nursing women should consult healthcare providers before use, as safety data in these populations is limited. Those taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications should seek professional guidance before supplementation.

### What is the difference between Angelica archangelica and other Angelica species used for health?

Angelica archangelica (garden angelica) is distinct from Asian species like Angelica sinensis (dong quai), which dominate traditional Chinese medicine; research on cardiovascular benefits exists primarily for related Angelica species rather than A. archangelica specifically. A. archangelica has the strongest clinical evidence for bladder support, while other Angelica species are more commonly studied for women's health and circulatory support, making them distinct in both traditional applications and research focus.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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