Angelica extract 1% | Angelica sinensis

Angelica extract 1% | Angelica sinensis

Properties: Dong Quai or “female ginseng” are two common names of Angelica sinensis. They reflect the amount of phytoestrogens – floral analogues of female sex hormones present in this plant. These compounds are the reason why women in the menopausal period have supplemented angelica for centuries. Research evidence has demonstrated that A.sinensis can, for example, limit the symptoms related to menopause such as heat waves and cold sweats. Another study has proven that it helps to maintain the proper density of bones, thus is an element of osteoporosis prophylaxis. Ladies who struggle with PMS-related issues (as well as gentlemen) will also appreciate the regulatory effect of angelica on the endocrine system. When speaking of menstruation, it is worth noting that this plant contains multiple active compounds with a relaxant effect, helpful against period cramps.

What is more, angelica sinensis benefits the immune system too. It stimulates the proliferation of its basic cells. Simultaneously, it prevents the spread of inflammation. For these reasons Dong Quai is still used by Asian doctors as a support to conventional therapies.

To complete this story, we must mention that angelica has the ability to prevent bloating, is full of natural antioxidants, and stimulates the secretion of acetylcholine in the central nervous system. Keep in mind that acetylcholine is responsible for basic cognitive functions as well as creativity. Thus, the supplementation of „female ginseng” may certainly benefit women as well as men.

Occurrence: Angelica sinensis is a biennial byline from the Apiaceae family. It reaches up to two meters in height and has gigantic, dark-green leaves. It forms an almost spherical shaped, flowery umbels at the top of the stem. This plant is characterized by a very strong, specific smell that resembles musk. It occurs naturally in high mountain areas, in meadows and in humid mountain gorges in China, Korea and Japan. In traditional medicine of the Far East, angelica has been used first and foremost as a remedy for multiple female ailments such as painful menstruation, menopausal symptoms, and after pregnancy. It is also considered to be an effective means of strengthening the heart, lungs and liver, supporting the functioning of the intestines and nourishing the blood.

Biochemistry: Angelica sinensis owes its properties mainly to phytoestrogens. These plant-based organic compounds are analogous to human female hormones – estrogens. Some of the more attractive ingredients also include coumarins (including angelicin, osthenol, archangelicin). Apart from them, the plant also contains: organic acids, polysaccharides, phytosterols, essential oils, micro- and macroelements (including calcium, zinc, potassium, magnesium) and vitamins (mainly C and E).

Fun fact: Angelica sinensis has been known to Scandinavians and Laplanders for ages. These people have appreciated it very much, because it is one of the few edible plants available in the harsh climate of the North. They used to make a special kind of cheese from its flowers and reindeer milk. Angelica’s roots, rhizomes, and sprouts have also been consumed.