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
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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.
A root was also carried or chewed during pestilence, worn as an amulet against witchcraft, and planted at property corners as a protective boundary.
Tradition: Nordic & Renaissance European Associated figures: Archangel Michael & Christ
Mystical correspondences
Correspondences vary by tradition and source.
Is angelica safe to use?
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.
Exposure note: EPA indoor-particle guidance says burning can add particles and advises ventilation. ASPCA plant entries address ingestion, not smoke exposure. See the sourced burning, pet and pregnancy lookup; neither source clears this plant as safe to burn.