Angelica: Magical Properties & Uses

Angelica is one of the most powerful protective herbs in the Western tradition: it stands at the threshold between the mortal and the divine, between what threatens and what defends. Unlike nettle (which actively repels) or rue (which breaks what is sent), angelica calls down divine protection: it aligns the working with solar, angelic, and higher-vibrational forces. It is used for protection against curses, negative spirits, and psychic attack; as a blessing and consecration herb; and in workings requiring connection to protective divine presences. The root is carried as a protective amulet and used to break hexes and remove crossed conditions.

Angelica (Angelica archangelica) has a long history in European herbal medicine and as a flavouring herb. The stems are crystallised as a confection sold across Europe. The root is a primary botanical in several major gins, absinthe, and liqueurs. Medicinally it has been used for digestive complaints, respiratory infections, and as an expectorant. Culpeper recommended it for plague and all manner of infectious conditions. Caution: it can cause photosensitisation and may interact with anticoagulant medications. Not for use in pregnancy.

Archangel Michael, St Michael

Angelica's very name announces its most important quality: it was named for the angel said to have revealed its medicinal properties to a monk during the plague, or because it bloomed on the feast of the Archangel Michael. Throughout medieval Europe it was considered the most powerful herb against evil, witchcraft, and pestilence. Culpeper calls it an herb of the sun in Leo and therefore friendly to nature. It was used in both Protestant and Catholic ceremony; the root was carried as a protective amulet throughout the Black Death. In Lapland it was considered sacred and eaten as food in times of famine.