General
The angelica flower, which is a genus consisting of about 60 species, is a member of the apiaceae family. Natively grown in both subarctic and more temperate areas of the Northern Hemisphere, angelica can shoot up to a tall 4 to 6 feet in height. Their stems are thick, fluted and hollow, and may be either green or purplish in appearance. Their foliage is bipinnate, bright green, and serrated. The flowers themselves are made up of large inflorescences that may be either light yellow, white and green or white and purple in hue. They tend to grow in abundance in well-shaded areas with moist, loamy soil.
Angelica is a flower that conveys the meaning of true and pure intention, with white fluffy petals wispy like the wings of angels, the magic of the Angelica is to aid in perceiving the true intentions of others as well. Angelica flower is aligned to the crown chakra. Numerology for the Angelica flower is 9.
Wholistic Healing
The angelica flower is best known for its uses as a holistic medicine. These plants are known to be very effective in aiding the female reproductive system. One of the most frequently used types is angelica sinensis, which is commonly used to urge along delayed menstruation, ease cramps, and – in small quantities – help speed up labor. However, this species of angelica is considered very potent, and women are urged to avoid it during pregnancy. As well as easing female conditions, the angelica flower has long been used as a stimulant for weakness, to ease digestive troubles, and treat bronchitis and cystitis. Taken externally in the form of medicinal mouth rinses and poultices, these blossoms are also used to treat sore throats, mouth ulcers, broken bones and arthritis. The scent of angelica flowers has occasionally been likened to both juniper and musk, and is occasionally extracted and used for aromatherapy – which is said to bring about a feeling and calm, protection, and is thought to bring a sense of equilibrium to the spirit. As well as being very useful in medicine, the angelica flower is also said to be a great addition to many dishes. The seeds and stems of this plant are sometimes used to flavor liqueurs and gin; they are frequently candied and placed atop cakes and pastries, while fresh leaves are sometimes used in salads, spread with butter, or used as a unique side dish that is commonly eaten alongside fish. Herbals teas may also be made with these flowers – either for medicinal purposes, or simply for their strong, licorice-like taste.
The angelica flower is often said to represent inspiration and encouragement, and is often given as a gift to represent just those feelings. They may be given as a sort of muse to a person who is in a slump, or they may be presented to encourage that same person to get out of their slump. These blossoms are also said to be great stress relievers, so in place of the traditional bouquet or fresh cut flowers, you may prefer to present dried angelica in the form of a “dream pillow,” so as to encourage the recipient to be more restful.
Magical
A member of the Parsley family, Angelica is known in magickal herbalism as a powerful guardian. It is said to banish negativity and attract positive energy. Angelica grows in tall, blossoming stalks—but typically only the root portion is used in spellwork.
Angelica is a staple of American folk magick or rootwork, but it probably acquired its holy reputation hundreds of years ago, in medieval Europe. Angelica was used to ward off disease, cure poisoning, and bring blessings upon the home. Culpeper’s 17th century herbal almanac recommends making a candy of the roots and stalks to be eaten when ill or fasting. Angelica is said to be one of the flavoring ingredients in the herbal liqueurs Benedictine and Chartreuse. To learn how one lunar phase shifts and changes into the next, and to learn how to live in attunement to the lunar cycles, in the experiential empowerment doing so offers, get the Moon Magick Planner.
Angelica’s magickal virtues are linked to its robust stature, pleasant aroma, and association with the Archangel Michael. Legend has it that the angel appeared in a dream to a monk, showing him the herb that could cure the plague in Europe. Traditionally, Angelica blooms on the feast of the Apparition of the Archangel Michael, May 8. Angelica is also known as Holy Ghost Root, Archangel Root or Dong Quai.
Angelica root is available in dried form, and also as an essential oil. It grows wild in many places, but is not extremely heat tolerant. Use care when wildcrafting, as it resembles both Queen Anne’s Lace (a benign wild carrot) and Water Hemlock (a poisonous plant).
Angelica corresponds to the Sun and the element of Fire. Angelica is a tall, fast-growing plant that does well in warmer climates. (Both attributions are probably related to Archangel Michael, who is the angel of Fire.) Whether harvesting or working with Angelica, it is traditional to use do so on the day and in the hour of the Sun.
Carry a piece of Angelica root to bring strength and ward off hexes. Put the root in a white mojo bag for protection, or a yellow one for courage.
Add the dried root to incenses, floor washes, and baths to break jinxes and purify the home.
Use Angelica to consecrate amulets of Archangel Michael and all Solar charms.
Precautions
Angelica is regarded as safe to use as an incense or ritual ingredient. People taking the herb medicinally should consult a doctor or herbalist, as it may have side effects. Use caution when handling essential oils, and never take them internally.
Scent Profile: Woody, Peppery, Earthy, Green