Introduction
What is Angelica root?
Botanical and nutritional overview
Overall health benefits
How Angelica supports women’s health
Angelica for mental health
Safety and contraindications
How to use angelica root
References
Further reading
Angelica root is a traditionally used medicinal herb with emerging scientific evidence supporting its anti-inflammatory, circulatory, neurological, and reproductive effects. Current research suggests promising benefits for women’s health, though most findings remain preclinical or based on multi-herb formulations.
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Introduction
Angelica root is gaining renewed scientific attention for its diverse pharmacological properties, ranging from anti-inflammatory and vasoprotective effects to potential reproductive, neurological, and circulatory benefits, although most data so far come from preclinical experiments and small or combination clinical studies rather than large, definitive human trials.
What is Angelica root?
The Angelica genus, which belongs to the Apiaceae family, includes 60-90 aromatic biennial and perennial herbs distributed across Asia, Europe, and North America. Among these include Angelica archangelica (European angelica) and Angelica sinensis (Dong Quai), which are the most widely studied and used species that are valued for their long history in medicinal practice, and in parts of Asia, these and other Angelica species are colloquially referred to as “women’s ginseng” because of their traditional use in gynecological disorders.1
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), A. sinensis root, which was first described in Shennong’s Herbal Classic, is used to ‘nourish the blood,’ regulate menstruation, as well as relieve pain and constipation. A. sinensis remains an essential component of classical formulas such as Dang Gui Si Ni Decoction and Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT) that are prescribed for blood deficiency, fatigue, and menopausal symptoms.6,7,9
In contrast, A. archangelica gained prominence in traditional European and other regional herbal systems for its digestive, calming, and respiratory benefits. Today, both species continue to attract scientific interest for possible roles in women’s reproductive health, hormonal balance, and circulatory wellness; however, most human data involve multi-herb formulations in which Angelica is only one component, and overall clinical evidence remains limited, with a certainty ranging from low to moderate 3,6,8,9
Botanical and nutritional overview
A. sinensis, A. archangelica, and A. dahurica roots are rich in phthalides like Z-ligustilide and senkyunolide A, phenolic acids like ferulic acid, and coumarins including imperatorin, bergapten, and isoimperatorin. These bioactive compounds exhibit antioxidant, inflammation-modulating, and vasoprotective effects. In A. sinensis, ferulic acid supports blood-forming and vascular health, while Z-ligustilide contributes to smooth muscle relaxation and neuroprotection.1,2
Angelica spp. also contains flavonoids, polysaccharides, and essential oils such as α-pinene, limonene, and β-phellandrene, with antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. In fact, polysaccharides isolated from A. dahurica, composed of arabinose, glucose, galactose, and mannose, exhibit immune-enhancing and cell-protective effects in laboratory models. Angelica roots also contain trace minerals, plant carbohydrates, and volatile oils that support overall well-being.1,2 To date, these biochemical and pharmacological properties have been characterized predominantly in cell culture and animal studies, with relatively few well-controlled clinical trials confirming the same effects in humans.1,7,9
Overall health benefits
Essential oils from A. sinensis and A. dahurica have been shown in preclinical cell and animal models to reduce the production of key inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), in carrageenan- or lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation.1,5,7
Isoimperatorin and ferulic acid modulate nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways, thereby reducing cytokine release, oxidative stress, and tissue damage, again primarily in preclinical experiments. Polysaccharides isolated from Angelica roots further enhance antioxidant defense by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting nitric oxide overproduction.1
In addition to their anti-inflammatory effects, Angelica extracts may also possess analgesic and antispasmodic properties. Studies have shown that phthalides, notably Z-ligustilide, butylidenephthalide, and butylphthalide, relax smooth muscle and alleviate pain by inhibiting calcium channels and modulating prostaglandin synthesis, whereas coumarins improve blood flow and decrease uterine muscle spasms; however, these effects have mainly been demonstrated in isolated tissues or animal models, so their magnitude in human pain conditions remains to be fully clarified.1,4,7
These mechanisms align with historical clinical and ethnobotanical use of Angelica root formulations used to assuage menstrual cramps and arthritic pain. Extracts of A. dahurica have also shown efficacy in reducing inflammatory pain in animal models.1,3,4
Ferulic acid and coumarins from Angelica species show anti-atherosclerotic and vasoprotective actions in preclinical studies, for example by inhibiting platelet aggregation, improving endothelial function, and promoting angiogenesis; these mechanisms could theoretically reduce thromboembolic risk, but this has not yet been confirmed in clinical outcome trials. Moreover, A. sinensis polysaccharides may enhance hematopoiesis, improve bone marrow function, and protect vascular endothelium.4-7
Collectively, these properties position Angelica as a multifunctional botanical under active investigation for conditions associated with oxidative stress, circulatory insufficiency, or hormonal imbalance, although its current clinical use is still largely grounded in traditional practice and limited, low- to moderate-certainty human data.3-5,7,9
How Angelica supports women’s health
Beyond these systemic benefits, Angelica’s best-documented applications relate to women’s reproductive and hormonal health. For example, within TCM, A. sinensis is often used to support menstrual balance and postpartum recovery.6,7,9
These effects are primarily attributed to the activity of phthalides like Z-ligustilide, phenolic acids like ferulic acid, and polysaccharides that promote blood circulation, reduce smooth muscle tension, and relieve discomfort by modulating nitric oxide and prostaglandin pathways. Experimental and limited clinical data suggest improvements in microcirculation and reduced platelet aggregation, but robust randomized trials specifically designed to test A. sinensis for dysmenorrhea or menstrual regulation are still scarce.6,7,9
In menopause, A. sinensis is often used in combination formulas, rather than as a single ingredient, to alleviate vasomotor symptoms. Randomized controlled trials of multi-herbal preparations Climex (A. sinensis with Matricaria chamomilla) and Phyto-Female Complex with black cohosh and red clover report 70-90% reductions in hot flashes and improved sleep as compared to placebo. However, these products contain multiple active botanicals, making it challenging to attribute benefits specifically to A. sinensis, and sample sizes are relatively small. Comparatively, 4.5 g/day of A. sinensis alone for 24 weeks did not provide any significant effects, thus exemplifying the synergistic potential of combination therapies and the limited evidence supporting single-herb dong quai for menopausal hot flashes.8,9
For polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), aqueous extract of A. sinensis has improved estrous cycles, sex hormone profiles, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia in a letrozole- and high-fat diet-induced rat model of PCOS, with multi-omics analyses implicating PI3K/AKT, AMPK, PPAR, and MAPK pathways and modulation of the gut microbiota.2 In contrast, a Cochrane review of Chinese herbal medicine (often multi-herb formulas that may include A. sinensis) for subfertile women with PCOS found very low- to low-certainty evidence overall, no data on live births, and only limited, low-certainty evidence that adding Chinese herbal medicine to clomiphene might increase clinical pregnancy rates.3
In postpartum recovery, the DBT formulation of A. sinensis with Astragalus membranaceus in a 1:5 ratio has been shown in preclinical and cell-based studies to enhance hematopoietic markers, support cardiovascular circulation, and modulate immune responses, which may help explain its traditional use to restore strength and address postpartum anemia. Overall, A. sinensis is a promising herbal treatment with the potential to support women’s health through circulatory, analgesic, and mild hormonal effects, but current evidence in humans remains limited and heterogeneous, and high-quality trials are needed to define efficacy, optimal dosing, and safety in hormone-sensitive populations.3,6-9
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Angelica for mental health
European herbal medicine prescribes A. archangelica for nervous and cerebral disorders, and modern studies have attributed these effects to imperatorin and isoimperatorin. Preclinical work indicates that these coumarins can influence central nervous system activity, including inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and modulation of anxiety-like behavior in animals, although their precise molecular targets in humans remain incompletely defined.1,10,11
Preclinical studies support these claims, as A. archangelica extracts produced significant anxiolytic-like effects in rat models, comparable to those of iazepam in the elevated plus maze test. More detailed experiments using methanolic and successive extracts have demonstrated significant anxiolytic-like activity in elevated plus-maze, elevated T-maze, and forced swimming tests versus control, with response profiles that resemble but do not necessarily equal those of diazepam; to date, these findings have not been confirmed in human trials.10–12 Thus, interactive effects between furanocoumarins and essential oils contribute to their relaxant properties, though human trials remain lacking.
The neuroprotective potential of A. sinensis has been explored in rodent models of ischemic injury and vascular dementia. The polysaccharides and volatile oils of A. sinensis mitigate oxidative stress, inhibit neuronal apoptosis, and enhance cognitive performance by modulating protein kinase B (PKB)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/NF-κB pathways, largely in preclinical stroke and vascular dementia models.5,7 Together, these results indicate that the herb may support neurological health through complementary anxiolytic and neuroprotective mechanisms, but dedicated clinical studies in people with anxiety disorders or cognitive impairment are still needed.5,10–12
Safety and contraindications
Angelica species are well tolerated when used appropriately; however, mild effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort or photosensitivity have been reported. Furanocoumarins, particularly 8-methoxypsoralen, can increase ultraviolet (UV) sensitivity, thus warranting limited sun exposure or adequate protection.1,7,9
A. sinensis also contains coumarin analogs that may affect blood coagulation. Concurrent use with anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents can increase bleeding risk, thereby requiring medical supervision. Due to its uterine-stimulating potential, Angelica, especially A. sinensis, should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation, and individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions or a history of estrogen-dependent cancers should seek specialist advice before use.3,7,9
In vitro studies indicate that A. gigas extracts exhibit dose-dependent cytotoxicity above 200 µg/mL in human cell lines, whereas A. sinensis extracts are associated with minimal cytotoxicity and may even enhance osteoblast proliferation.6 These findings highlight species-specific differences and support the preference for authenticated A. sinensis in traditional formulations such as DBT.1,6 Animal data report a high median lethal dose (LD₅₀) of 55-89 g/kg for A. dahurica in mice, indicating low acute toxicity.1
Regulatory reviews in Europe have emphasized the limited high-quality clinical evidence and potential toxicological concerns surrounding A. sinensis products: the European Medicines Agency has concluded that A. sinensis radix does not currently meet criteria for registration as a traditional herbal medicinal product, and the European Food Safety Authority has found insufficient evidence to support proposed health claims (for joint and oxygen-transport benefits) at doses equivalent to 3–15 g of dried root.9 Rare adverse effects, including diarrhea, dystonia, or gastrointestinal bleeding, have been documented with A. sinensis use.7,9
Herbal pharmacopoeias typically recommend 3-6 g/day of dried root or 0.5-2 g of powdered root up to three times daily, though standardized preparations and long-term human safety data remain limited. Although daily oral doses of 3–15 g of root (or 3–6 g of powdered root) are often quoted in monographs and on product labels, authoritative reviews stress that no proven safe or effective adult dose has been established, and that long-term or high-dose use should be supervised by a qualified healthcare professional, especially when other medications are being taken.7,9
How to use angelica root
Angelica root is a primary component found in numerous herbal formulations designed to support circulatory, digestive, and respiratory health. Among these, DBT, a well-established Chinese preparation, contains higher levels of ferulic acid than regional variants, a difference that may influence its overall efficacy.6 DBT prepared from authenticated A. sinensis and Astragalus has shown osteogenic, estrogenic, immunomodulatory, and hematopoietic activity in preclinical studies, which aligns with its traditional use for women’s fatigue, menstrual disorders, and menopausal symptoms.6,7
For individual use, Angelica root can be taken as teas, decoctions, tinctures, or capsules. Angelica root tea or decoction is made by simmering up to three grams of dried root for 15-20 minutes or steeping for 10-15 minutes. These traditional preparations are typically used in short courses and ideally under the guidance of a practitioner trained in herbal or Chinese medicine, particularly in people with complex medical histories or who are taking prescription drugs.7,9
Angelica root tincture can be consumed in doses of 20-60 drops, diluted in water, up to 3 times daily. Capsules or powdered forms usually provide 400-800 mg twice daily, while more concentrated fluid extracts equivalent to 0.5-2 g of dried root should be used under professional guidance.3,6 Because commercial products may vary markedly in species identity, processing, and constituent content, users should choose preparations from reputable manufacturers and avoid exceeding label directions without medical advice.6,8,9
Topical preparations, including infused oils or poultices, may alleviate muscle tension or menstrual discomfort. Since Angelica contains photosensitizing compounds, users should avoid direct sun exposure after topical or high-dose use.3 Additional caution is warranted when using topical products alongside photosensitizing medications or phototherapy.1,7,9
References
- El-Saber Batiha, G., Shaheen, H. M., Elhawary, E. A., et al. (2022). Phytochemical Constituents, Folk Medicinal Uses, and Biological Activities of Genus Angelica: A Review. Molecules 28(1); 267.
DOI: 10.3390/molecules28010267. https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/28/1/267.
- Gao, Y., Mo, S., Cao, H., et al. (2023). The efficacy and mechanism of Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels root aqueous extract based on RNA sequencing and 16S rDNA sequencing in alleviating polycystic ovary syndrome. Phytomedicine 120. DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155013. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0944711323003744.
- Zhou, K., Zhang, J., Xu, L., & Danforn Lim, C. E. (2021). Chinese herbal medicine for subfertile women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 6. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007535.pub4. https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD007535.pub4/full.
- Magdalou, J., Chen, L., Wang, H., et al. (2015). Angelica sinensis and osteoarthritis: a natural therapeutic link? Bio-Medical Materials and Engineering 25:179-86. DOI: 10.3233/BME-141250. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.3233/BME-141250.
- Chen, L., Fan, B., Wang, F., et al. (2023). Research Progress in Pharmacological Effects and Mechanisms of Angelica sinensis against Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases. Molecules, 29(9), 2100. DOI: 10.3390/molecules29092100. https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/29/9/2100.
- Zhang, W. L., Zheng, K. Y. Z., Zhu, K. Y., et al. (2013). Chemical and Biological Assessment of Angelica Roots from Different Cultivated Regions in a Chinese Herbal Decoction Danggui Buxue Tang. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine: ECAM. DOI: 10.1155/2013/483286. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2013/483286
- Wei, W., Zeng, R., Gu, C., et al. (2016). Angelica sinensis in China-A review of botanical profile, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and chemical analysis. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 190; 116-141. DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.05.023, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874116302951.
- Johnson, A., Roberts, L., & Elkins, G. (2019). Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Menopause. Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine 24. DOI: 10.1177/2515690X19829380, https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2515690X19829380
- Hook, I. L. (2014). Danggui to Angelica sinensis root: Are potential benefits to European women lost in translation? A review. Journal of Ethnopharmacology 152(1); 1-13. DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2013.12.018. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874113008933
- Kumar, D., & Bhat, Z. A. (2012). Anti-anxiety Activity of Methanolic Extracts of Different Parts of Angelica archangelica Linn. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine 2(3); 235. DOI: 10.1016/s2225-4110(16)30105-5, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2225411016301055
- Kumar, D., Bhat, Z. A., Kumar, V., & Shah, M. Y. (2013). Coumarins from Angelica archangelica Linn. and their effects on anxiety-like behavior. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry 40:180-6. DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2012.08.004. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0278584612001972
- Kumar, D., Bhat, Z. A., & Shah, M. Y. (2012). Anti-anxiety activity of successive extracts of Angelica archangelica Linn. on the elevated T-maze and forced swimming tests in rats. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine 32(3);423-9. DOI: 10.1016/s0254-6272(13)60049-7, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0254627213600497
Last Updated: Nov 24, 2025