Angelica Archangelica is a botanical name that belongs to the family Apiaceae. The word "Angelica" is pronounced as /ænˈdʒɛlɪkə/ and spelled using the English alphabet. The word "Archangelica" is pronounced as /ɑrkˌæn.dʒɛlˈɪ.kə/ and spelled using a combination of Latin and English alphabets. The phonetic transcription highlights the stress on the second and fourth syllables in "Archangelica" and the first syllable in "Angelica". This plant is known for its medicinal and culinary uses and has a strong aroma and flavor.
Angelica archangelica is a biennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Apiaceae family, native to northern Europe, Scandinavia, and parts of Asia. Also commonly known as garden angelica or wild celery, this plant is characterized by its tall, sturdy stems, reaching heights of up to 2 meters. The large, bright green, pinnate leaves have toothed margins and are composed of several leaflets. The clusters of small, greenish-white flowers bloom in umbels on the apex of the stems during the second year of growth, followed by the production of oblong fruits containing oval-shaped, aromatic, and slightly bitter seeds.
Angelica archangelica has a long history of various cultural and medicinal uses. In culinary applications, the plant's fresh or dried leaves, stems, and roots are valued for their pungent and slightly sweet flavor, often used as a seasoning or ingredient in liqueurs and confectionery. The roots yield essential oils, which are utilized in the production of perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics. Medicinally, angelica archangelica has been traditionally employed as a digestive aid, expectorant, and diuretic. It is also renowned for its carminative, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, this herb is believed to have immune-boosting, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. Due to its versatile uses, angelica archangelica holds cultural significance and is revered for its therapeutic and culinary qualities.
The word "Angelica Archangelica" has an interesting etymology.
The term "Angelica" is derived from the Latin word "angelus", which means "angel" or "messenger". This may refer to the plant's reputed healing properties and its association with divine protection. Additionally, some sources suggest that the name "Angelica" is related to the archangel Michael because the plant was believed to bloom on his feast day, May 8th.
The specific epithet "Archangelica" comes from the Greek word "archangelos", combining "arche" meaning "chief" or "first" and "angelos" meaning "messenger" or "angel". This name was given to the plant because of its perceived strong medicinal properties and the belief that it could protect against evil spirits.