Chinese Angelica (Angelica sinensis)

Chinese Angelica (Angelica sinensis) is a member of the Apiaceae family, native to China, East Asia, and Sichuan Province. Traditionally, its roots, rhizomes, and stems have been used for decoctions, infusions, and powders.

This herb is particularly valued for its tonic, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory actions, and has a long history of use in traditional chinese medicine, japanese kampo medicine, and korean traditional medicine.

Chinese Angelica (Angelica sinensis) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference
Chinese Angelica (Angelica sinensis) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name Chinese Angelica
Scientific Name Angelica sinensis
Plant Family Apiaceae
Genus Angelica
Species sinensis
Native Range China, East Asia, Sichuan Province
Plant Parts Used Roots, Rhizomes, Stems
Primary Medicinal Actions Tonic, Antispasmodic, Anti-Inflammatory
Primary Traditional Systems Traditional Chinese Medicine, Japanese Kampo Medicine, Korean Traditional Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods Decoction, Infusion, Powder

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name
Angelica sinensis
Common Name
Chinese Angelica
Synonyms / Alternative Names
Dong Quai, Angelica Root, Dong Chuan Wu
Plant Family
Apiaceae
Genus
Angelica

Botanical Description

Growth Habit
Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height
It typically grows to a height of 40 to 100 centimeters.
Leaves
Broad leaves with upper surface dark green and lower surface pale green, featuring prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers
Inflorescence composed of solitary umbellate clusters, flowers white with yellow stamen clusters, actinomorphic symmetry, five ovate petals with a central yellow disc, five sepals, and two stamens per flower.
Stems
Woody, cylindrical, and aromatic, the stems are typically erect, unbranched, and have a rough, longitudinally wrinkled surface with persistent leaf scars.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

  • Traditional Chinese Medicine
  • Japanese Kampo Medicine
  • Korean Traditional Medicine
  • European Herbal Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

  • Decoction
  • Infusion
  • Powder
  • Tincture

Medicinal Actions

Tonic
As described in traditional systems, a warming tonic, in general wellness contexts.
Antispasmodic
Historically regarded as a calming antispasmodic, in smooth muscle contexts.
Anti-inflammatory
Commonly referenced as a cooling anti-inflammatory, in tissue-soothing contexts.
Carminative
Traditionally described as a soothing carminative, for digestive process support.

Active Compounds

Essential Oil
Volatile plant-derived substances commonly present in leaves and flowers.
Coumarin
Naturally occurring lactone compounds distributed across various plant tissues.
Flavonoid
A widely occurring class of plant polyphenols found in leaves, flowers, and fruits.
Glycoside
Plant-produced compounds commonly stored in inactive glycosylated forms.

Modern Research Overview

This section is reserved for future summaries of scientific research related to this plant. As additional verified sources are reviewed, relevant study information will be added here.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions
General precautions have been noted regarding the use of this herb.
Contraindications
Certain contraindications have been reported in relation to the use of this herb.
Allergies
Sensitivity or allergy-related effects have not been clearly established.
Drug Interactions
The potential for interactions with prescription medications has not been extensively studied.
Toxicity
Reports of toxicity related to this herb are not well documented in available literature.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well documented.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion
Plant material is steeped in hot water to extract water-soluble compounds.
Decoction
Plant parts are gently boiled in water to release soluble constituents.
Poultice
Fresh or dried plant material is applied externally to the skin.
Powder
Plant parts are dried and mechanically reduced to a powdered form.
Tincture
Alcohol is used as a solvent to extract plant constituents over time.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil
Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight
Thrives in partial shade. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering
Prefers moist soils. Tolerates moderate moisture fluctuations.

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herb for medicinal purposes.