At a glance
- Common name
- Angelica
- Botanical name
- Angelica archangelica
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Parts mentioned in historical records
- Root, seeds, stem
- Traditional correspondences
- Sun; Fire / Air
Historical record
Legend holds that an archangel revealed this root to a monk in a dream during the Black Plague as an infallible defense against the pestilence. Known across Renaissance Europe as the 'Root of the Holy Ghost'.
Folklore and mythology
Worn around the neck of infants to protect against illness and witchcraft. Planting angelica around the corners of the homestead created an impenetrable boundary against evil spirits.
Associated with the Archangel Michael, whose feast day (May 8) coincided with the blooming of the plant, believed to imbue it with divine protective authority over plague and wickedness.
Tradition: Nordic & Renaissance European Associated figures: Archangel Michael & Christ
Revealed in a vision by Archangel Michael to a pious monk during the 14th-century Black Death; bloomed on St. Michael's Day in the old Julian calendar.
Root chewed by travelers passing through pestilence; worn as an amulet against witchcraft; grown at property corners as a divine perimeter fence.
Mystical correspondences
Correspondences vary by tradition and source.
Safety first
Historical and spiritual associations do not establish that Angelica is safe or effective. Do not use this page as instructions for ingesting, smoking, inhaling, or applying Angelica.
For current safety information, check a health authority or ask a qualified clinician or pharmacist, especially during pregnancy or lactation, while taking medication, or with an allergy or health condition.