Angelica comes from several related plants. The two most common are *Angelica archangelica*, often called garden angelica, and *Angelica sinensis*, known as dong quai. Herbal preparations use the root. Both European and Chinese traditions include angelica in their herbal practices for centuries.
People use it to calm digestive upset and relieve occasional gas or bloating. Some also take it as a general tonic or for menstrual discomfort, though human evidence is thin. You will find it as tea, tincture, or capsules.
Tradition says to take it with meals, but always follow the label on your product. For tea, steep the dried root in hot water. Extracts come in small doses. The exact amount depends on the form you choose and your own needs.
Take these cautions seriously. Avoid angelica if you are pregnant or breastfeeding because it may stimulate the uterus. The plant contains coumarins and can interfere with blood thinning medications. Certain types of angelica make skin more sensitive to sun. Anyone with a hormone sensitive condition should be careful, especially with *Angelica sinensis*.