A member of the Parsley family, Angelica is known in magickal herbalism as a powerful guardian. It is said to banish negativity and attract positive energy. Angelica grows in tall, blossoming stalks—but typically only the root portion is used in spellwork.
Angelica is a staple of American folk magick or rootwork, but it probably acquired its holy reputation hundreds of years ago, in medieval Europe. Angelica was used to ward off disease, cure poisoning, and bring blessings upon the home. Culpeper’s 17th century herbal almanac recommends making a candy of the roots and stalks to be eaten when ill or fasting. Angelica is said to be one of the flavoring ingredients in the herbal liqueurs Benedictine and Chartreuse.
Angelica’s magickal virtues are linked to its robust stature, pleasant aroma, and association with the Archangel Michael. Legend has it that the angel appeared in a dream to a monk, showing him the herb that could cure the plague in Europe. Traditionally, Angelica blooms on the feast of the Apparition of the Archangel Michael, May 8. Angelica is also known as Holy Ghost Root, Archangel Root or Dong Quai.
Angelica root is available in dried form, and also as an essential oil. It grows wild in many places, but is not extremely heat tolerant. Use care when wildcrafting, as it resembles both Queen Anne’s Lace (a benign wild carrot) and Water Hemlock (a poisonous plant).
Magickal uses of Angelica
In Wicca and witchcraft, Angelica is regarded as a powerful protective ingredient. Angelica is incorporated into spells to ward off evil and bring good fortune. It is associated with personal courage, when that courage is based in moral uprightness. Angelica is said to bring blessings of emotional temperance and harmonious home life.
Angelica archangelica is native to Europe, and is the species most often used in magick. There are other types of Angelica native to North America and Europe.
Correspondences of Angelica
Angelica corresponds to the Sun and the element of Fire. Angelica is a tall, fast-growing plant that does well in warmer climates. (Both attributions are probably related to Archangel Michael, who is the angel of Fire.) Whether harvesting or working with Angelica, it is traditional to use do so on the day and in the hour of the Sun.
Spells and Formulas with Angelica
Carry a piece of Angelica root to bring strength and ward off hexes. Put the root in a white mojo bag for protection, or a yellow one for courage.
Angelica is an ingredient in a Hoodoo working known as the Fiery Wall of Protection.
Add the dried root to incenses, floor washes, and baths to break jinxes and purify the home.
Use Angelica to consecrate amulets of Archangel Michael and all Solar charms.
Precautions
Angelica is regarded as safe to use as an incense or ritual ingredient. People taking the herb medicinally should consult a doctor or herbalist, as it may have side effects. Use caution when handling essential oils, and never take them internally.
Scent Profile: Woody, Peppery, Earthy, Green
Correspondences: Sun, Fire