Angelica is a versatile herb useful as a general tonic for good health as well as a remedy for a variety of ailments.

Said to be named after Archangel Raphael, Angelica promotes circulation and warms the body. May be used by anemics to promote circulation to otherwise chilly hands and feet.

It relieves stomaches, indigestion, gas, heartburn and menstrual cramps in women. Can reduce lung congestion and is often a part of the herbal treatments of colds, coughs, fevers and the flu. It's also a good expectorant.

Angina (a form of heart disease that causes moderate to severe chest pain) sufferers need calcium channel blockers and Angelica contains 15 compounds that act much like them. Angelica combined with Carrots, Celery, Fennel and Parsley with water and maybe some spices makes a potent remedy for afflicted with angina. For those with cardiac arrhythmia, heart disease and heartburn, try adding Garlic to the above concoction. Drink one to two eight ounce cups daily. One of the compounds in Agelica is reportedly as potent as verapamil (Calan, Isoptin), an angina and heart disease pharmaceutical drug.

The psoralens (methoxypsoralen) in Angelica, citrus fruits, figs, parsnips and the other herbs mentioned above, is used in the treatment of psoriasis. Remember to get plenty of ultraviolet light, either sunshine or sunlamp.

Angelica has been shown to have significant effects in conditions in which individuals are sensitive to a variety of substances (pollens, dust, animal dander, food, etc.), according to Economic Medicinal Plant Research and J. Natural Products. Chinese herbalists have long used this herb in the prevention and relief of eczema and of allergic symptoms, which include hayfever and asthma.

Externally, it can ease rheumatic pains, stomach cramps and muscle spasms.

• Recommended Dosage

• Read More About It