Report on Angelica Side Effects and Usage

Angelica Root

Natural health supplements sometimes have unexpected side effects or interactions with medication that can lead to adverse reactions that are sometimes life threatening. The following is a list of cautions that you should be aware of before using Angelica (Angelica Archangelica). These are referred to as drug/herb interactions.

Warning 1 – Contraindications: Pregnancy, lactation (nursing), history of heart attack, atherosclerosis, and diabetes.

Warning 2 – Anticoagulants: Angelica is a mild blood thinner and increases the risk of bleeding and bruising. Using Angelica with other anticoagulants may prolong bleeding Use caution when combining with ginkgo, ibuprofen, aspirin, and other NSAIDs.

Warning 3 – Tolbutamide: The use of Angelica may delay elimination of tolbutamide from the body, which may require dosage adjustment.

Warning 4 – Photosensitivity: Angelica may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. If you use angelica, wear sunblock when outside, especially if you are light-skinned.

Angelica is also known as Dong-Quai, Dong-Quei, Archangelica Officinalis, Dang-Qui, Dong-Quai, Tang-Huei, and Garden Angelica.

Used as a natural health remedy: angelica is used internally for the following benefits and conditions:

  • Bronchial and lung infections
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Cold remedy
  • Colic
  • Coughs
  • Expectorant
  • High blood pressure
  • Improve appetite (for anorexia)
  • Improve circulation (warming agent)
  • Improve sex drive
  • Insomnia
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Menopause: Relieves hot flashes, sweats, and increases vaginal lubrication
  • Menstrual periods to relieve cramping and irregularity
  • Prevent flatulence (gas)
  • Reduce bleeding
  • Reduce edema (swelling)
  • Reduce fevers
  • Reduce heartburn
  • Reduce nerve pain (neuralgia)
  • Stomach upset and aid digestion

Used as a natural health remedy: angelica is used externally for the following benefits and conditions:

  • Arthritis (See other herbs for inflammation)
  • Joint pain (rheumatism)
  • Premature ejaculation
  • Psoriasis
  • Reduce bleeding

Side Effects of Angelica

Although the side effects associated with Angelica are rare it may cause:

  1. Burping
  2. Diarrhea
  3. Fever
  4. Gas
  5. Hyper-pigmentation of the face and neck
  6. Nausea
  7. Sensitivity to the sunlight
  8. Stomach upset
  9. Vomiting

If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: unusual bleeding, bruising, or sun sensitivity.

A serious allergic reaction to this herb is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Other side effects may also occur when using Angelica. (See form below)

As with any herb, a serious allergic reaction is possible. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. These may include a rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

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