Growing environment

Angelica is hardy to 5 °C (41 °F)^[4] and can be cultivated at elevations of 1,500 to 3,000 metres (5,000–10,000 ft). Seedlings need to be kept out of direct sunlight, but the mature plant can withstand it. Angelica requires deep moist fertile soil and is perennial if prevented from going to seed.^[4]

Traditional Chinese medicine

The dried root of A. sinensis – commonly known as Chinese angelica (Chinese: 當歸; pinyin: dāngguī; Pe̍h-ōe-jī: tong-kui) – is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine, although there is insufficient evidence that it has any medicinal effect.^[5]

Adverse effects

There is evidence that A. sinensis may affect the muscles of the uterus. Women who are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant should not use A. sinensis, because it may induce a miscarriage.^[5] Taking A. sinensis can cause skin to become extra sensitive to the sun, leading to a greater risk for skin cancer.^[5]

Drug interactions

A. sinensis may increase the anticoagulant effects of the drug warfarin (as it contains coumarins^[6]) and consequently increase the risk of bleeding.^[7]

Due to the antiplatelet and anticoagulant effects of A. sinensis, it should be taken with caution with herbs or supplements (such as ginkgo, garlic, and ginger) that may slow blood clotting to reduce the possible risk of bleeding and bruising.^[5][8]