Angelica (Archangelica)
- HymnConnected
- Jan 15
- 6 min read
Angelica oil referred to as the “oil of angels” has soothing and calming aromatic qualities that helps create a relaxing environment heightening spiritual awareness and fostering feelings of inner peace.
Angelica has been depicted in art and literature, symbolizing inspiration, courage, and protection. In Christianity, it is connected to the Archangel Michael, representing divine guidance and support. The plant's presence in mythology and folklore showcases its impact on human history and culture.
Angelica Archangelica, often known as garden angelica, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated in the Middle East but became especially prominent in Northern Europe, particularly in Scandinavian cultures. By the 10th century, it was cultivated for both its culinary and medicinal uses, valued for its ability to treat a variety of ailments. In Medieval England, angelica was thought to have mystical powers, often worn around the neck to ward off evil spirits. Its flowering on the feast day of the Archangel Michael added to its spiritual significance, earning it the name "Holy Ghost Plant." Over time, angelica has maintained its place in herbal medicine and culinary traditions, celebrated for its unique flavours and potential health benefits.
In European folklore there is a medieval legend that attributes Angelica's discovery to an angel who revealed its healing properties to a monk during a plague outbreak, leading to its use as a remedy against the Black Death. Eventually Angelica was believed to have protective powers and it used as means of protection against evil and dark magic; as a talisman or carried in a satchel to ward off evil spirits and negative energy. It was also often used to create yellow dye, the colour bringing light and joy.
In Nordic countries, Angelica has been a valued resource for centuries. It was often referred to as "sweet" due to its pleasant taste and was used in various culinary dishes. The plant's carbohydrate content increased over time, making it a valuable food source. Angelica also played a role in conveying cultural meaning and value, symbolizing sweetness both materially and symbolically. In Norse mythology, angelica was associated with the gods and was believed to have been given to humanity by the god Odin himself to protect them from disease and sorcery. In Scandinavian culture, Angelica has been celebrated in various festivities and traditions, particularly during Midsummer and other seasonal celebrations. During Midsummer, it's common to see angelica used in floral crowns and decorations, symbolizing protection and good fortune. The herb is also a key ingredient in traditional dishes and beverages, such as herbal teas and jams, which are enjoyed during these festivities. In some regions, angelica is believed to have protective properties, and it's not uncommon for people to carry small bundles of the herb or hang it in their homes to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity. These customs highlight the deep-rooted connection between angelica and Scandinavian cultural heritage, blending practical uses with mystical beliefs.
In China, Angelica, known as Dang Gui, holds a significant place in traditional Chinese medicine and folklore. It is revered as one of the fundamental herbs. It is often associated with the concept of "returning to the state of harmony". The herb is also linked to various myths and legends, including stories of its use in ancient rituals to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. One legend tells of a time when the Emperor of Heaven saw the suffering of people due to various ailments and decided to send down a divine herb to heal them. This herb was Angelica, known for its powerful healing properties. It was believed to be a gift from the gods to restore health and harmony.
In ancient times, alchemists and Taoist practitioners considered Dang Gui an essential ingredient in their quest for immortality. It was believed that consuming this herb could extend life and enhance vitality, making it a staple in many elixirs and potions. Dang Gui was also used in various rituals and ceremonies to ward off evil spirits and negative energies. It was believed that carrying a piece of the herb or burning it as incense could create a protective barrier against supernatural threats.
In some regions, Dang Gui was associated with love and fertility. It was used in bridal bouquets and marital rituals to ensure a happy and prosperous union. The herb was believed to enhance fertility and promote the health of both mother and child.
It is commonly used in women's health and its rich history and cultural significance make it a cherished herb in Chinese herbal medicine.
While Angelica is less commonly used in modern diets, it still holds cultural significance in certain regions. It is used in liqueurs and bitters, such as Chartreuse, Vermouth and Bénédictine, and continues to be valued for its medicinal and protective properties.
Magickal uses: Since Angelica is known for its association with the Divine, it is perfect for rituals that connect with the higher realms as well as great for exorcisms, cleanses and protection magick. Angelica is believed to open portals to the angelic and fairy realms, making it useful in rituals to communicate with these entities and for that reason it is used in rituals for higher guidance and insights.
It's perfect to anoint, cleanse and protect the altar space and is perfect for a bath after doing energetic work. Diffusing Angelica is a great way to bring positivity to your space and set the tone for your meditative practices and psychic development. It's a good support when wanting to astral travel and for lucid dreaming.
This plant is the perfect support during big transitions in life, bringing harmony to turbulent times. It is often smudged, but the oil can also be used to anoint yourself or a piece of jewelry to bring comfort. Rub it on your feet for extra grounding.
Use Angelica for magick that enhances health and vitality, and to provide strength when chronically ill or when old and frail. It is also a great ingredient for rituals that enhance a woman's strength during her cycles.
Angelica is also used in magick that supports true (universal) love and is a great tool to support the heart chakra and crown chakra. It's a great aid for the healing of the heart and promoting compassion and emotional healing.
Angelica's element is water, its energy is both masculine and feminine and it's associated with the planet Jupiter, as well as the Sun.
Aroma: Earthy, musky, herbaceous, woody, sweet, complex, robust. Top to base notes.
Extraction: Young Living extracts Angelica archangelica essential oil through steam distillation. This method involves using steam to separate the essential oil from the plant material, capturing its rich, earthy, and herbaceous aroma. The resulting oil is known for its calming and soothing properties, often referred to as the "oil of angels" due to its ability to promote relaxation and spiritual awareness.
Constituents: Beta Phellandrene, Alpha Pinene Oxide, Alpha Phellandrene
Suggested uses:
Diffuse to create a calming, relaxing atmosphere
Diffuse or apply topically to heightens spiritual awareness and foster feelings of inner peace
Apply to abdomen and massage for a soothing experience
Diffuse with R.C. or Raven for a refreshing breathing experience Anoint, bathe, sprinkle, incorporate in magick. This is a photosensitive oil, avoid contact with sunlight after applying to skin.
Interested in this oil? Become a member and enjoy 24% off retail price.
Disclaimer: The information provided by Hymn.Connected is for personal information and interest only. It is not intended to offer professional medical advice or treatment for any condition. You should not use our this advice to treat health conditions or to self-diagnose. We recommend that you consult your doctor or specialist if you have any health concerns whatsoever.
All of our advice has been provided on the basis that there are no known contra-indications to treatment. If you have any health problems or are taking any medication you should seek advice from your healthcare provider prior to using aromatherapy.
Please note that Hymn.Connected accepts no liability for misuse of essential oils or other products or for any reliance on the information provided by us via our website or other social media channels.
Safety Advice: Essential oils are highly concentrated. Their potency must be respected, they can be toxic if used incorrectly. Please note that the upcoming list does not constitute a complete safety reference. If you are uncertain, please contact a licensed aromatherapist for more advices.
Essential oils are flammable liquids.
Keep out of the reach of children.
If you have a medical condition and are taking any medication or undergoing any type of medical treatment you should check with your doctor and a qualified aromatherapist to ensure that it is safe to use aromatherapy in conjunction with your prescribed treatment.
Certain essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy. Please seek professional advice prior to using aromatherapy whilst pregnant.
Always consult a qualified aromatherapist before using essential oils with babies and children.
Avoid all contact with the mouth area and eyes.
Essential oils should never be applied undiluted to the skin as they can cause irritation (there are only a couple of exceptions to this rule i.e. Lavender and Tea Tree). Follow all recipes and methods carefully and do not increase the amount of essential oil quoted.
Certain essential oils (i.e. spices, warm oils) can cause skin irritation for people with sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin we recommend performing a small patch test prior to using any new oil or product.
A few essential oils such as Bergamot and other citrus oils are phototoxic which means they can cause skin sensitisation and skin discolouration in bright sunlight. These oils should be not be applied to the skin before direct exposure to sunlight.
