Angelica

BotanicalBest with a meal

What is it

Angelica refers to several species in the genus Angelica, including A. archangelica (Western angelica), A. sinensis (dong quai), and A. gigas (Korean angelica), with traditional uses for digestion, menstruation, and circulation.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Menstrual and menopausal symptoms (A. sinensis, traditional)

Limited Evidence

Mixed results in modern trials, often using multi-herb formulas; isolated A. sinensis effects are not consistently demonstrated.

How it works

Angelica roots contain coumarins, furanocoumarins, and ferulic acid derivatives with anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic activity in lab models. A. sinensis (dong quai) is used in Chinese medicine for menstrual and menopause concerns and contains compounds with mild estrogen-modulating activity in vitro. Clinical trial evidence is mixed and most studies use multi-herb formulas rather than angelica alone.

Dosage

No RDA. Traditional dose: 1-3 g of dried root or 1-4 mL of tincture.

When and how to take it

WHEN: With meals. HOW: Take as labeled.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dong quai (A. sinensis) extract

Most common in U.S. supplements.

Used in Chinese medicine.

Western angelica (A. archangelica)

Used as a flavoring agent and traditional carminative.

Different chemistry from dong quai.

Safety

Furanocoumarins can cause photosensitization; sun exposure should be limited. A. sinensis at high doses may interact with anticoagulants. Skin contact with fresh plant material can cause phototoxic dermatitis.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy (uterine activity in animal models). Caution with anticoagulants and photosensitizing drugs. Avoid heavy sun exposure.

Interactions

Furanocoumarins may inhibit CYP3A4 (less than grapefruit). Potential antiplatelet and anticoagulant interactions with A. sinensis.

Food sources

Gin (angelica root is used in many gin formulas)

Amount
1 oz
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is angelica safe in pregnancy?⌄

No. Avoid all species; A. sinensis especially has uterine activity in animal models.

References

Angelica on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Angelica on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Angelica (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Angelica with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.