If theangelic (or angelica officinalis, Angelica archangelica in Latin) is particularly sought after and appreciated for its medicinal properties, recognized since Antiquity, its cosmetic benefits have recently brought it to the forefront, revealing its effectiveness in a new light. La Reine Capricieuse, keen to shed light on its value in its own way, has made it one of the key ingredients in its beauty products.
Origin and properties of angelica, this plant which heals and hydrates the skin
Its name, far from being insignificant, has a story of its own: theangelic or angelica officinalis derives from the Latin "Angelica archangelica" and the Greek "aggelos" which means "messenger". Thus, the plant owes its name first to the greatness of its properties: these have been considered divine since the Middle Ages in Northern Europe and legend has it that the archangel Raphael strongly advised a churchman to cultivate this plant in his garden in order to combat the great epidemics, such as the plague, which struck men at that time.
Also known as "angel herb," "archangelica," or "holy spirit herb," these nicknames speak volumes about the effectiveness of angelica, which has been proven for centuries. This plant, from the Apiaceae family (formerly the Umbelliferae family), contains active ingredients that are particularly effective against sleep disorders, anxiety, and digestive problems.
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Cultivation, harvesting and maintenance of angelica, including its use in cosmetics
It is a biennial perennial plant, originating from Northern Europe as confirmed by the strong presence on the lands of Iceland and Greenland and even in areas located in Central Europe, such as the mountains of Scandinavia. Requiring moist soil to grow, Angelica archangelica is mainly found on sites that are subject to high humidity throughout the year (river banks, marshes, peat bog soil). The resistance of an angelica plantation to the sometimes very low temperatures of winter constitutes its main strength and helps it to face the harshest times of the year, even when the earth is seriously lacking in sun.
It is in summer that it reveals itself in all its majesty: with its large white, purple, or green flowers, it imposes itself on its observer, rising up to 3 meters in height! Its leaves, a bright green, contribute to its grandeur, composing a harmonious fragrance with scents of mint and anise when crushed. However, if you do not see any flowers appearing during the first year following planting, there is no reason to be alarmed!angelic, angel's herb, is capricious and requires time to reveal all its beauty: only its leaves are visible at first, the emergence of its stems and flowers only occurring during the second or third year after being planted.
At the end of summer, the plant ensures its survival: it goes to seed between August and October. Sowing occurs spontaneously in the first two or three years, with no need for human intervention to break this natural plant cycle. However, harvesting seeds from one year to the next can be a solution to prevent years during which the soil in the vegetable patch or garden will not be fresh enough for the plant to flourish fully. A supply of seeds can then compensate for a low natural regeneration of the plant.
The roots are harvested rather in the fall because it is at this time of year that the soil becomes sufficiently moist and loaded with water to meet the needs of the angelica. Because the plant does not accommodate soil that is too dry and poor in water. The soil that welcomes it must imperatively be moist and exposed in such a way that the seeds are in the shade and protected from too much exposure to the sun.
The spectacular beauty of its flowering does not detract from its usefulness: it is an aromatic, condiment plant which is used in cooking but also in medicine and cosmeticThe great peculiarity of angelica is that it is a species of plant whose entire plant is exploitable and usable for humans: its root is traditionally used in herbal medicine, and its petioles, stems and seeds are also sought after for their condiment and medicinal effects.
In France, it is found in the wild in only a few privileged places, although it is also cultivated in the rest of the territory. It is one of the riches of the Vosges Natural Park in the heart of which has settled La Reine Capricieuse : L'angelic that we use in our products such as the Pro-Age Cellular Face Cream, is present and proliferates in the wild in the humid zones, without any human cultivation disturbing it.
Angelica, a natural remedy for your health, well-being and skin
The traditional benefits of angelica for well-being: a promising avenue for those who favor natural or organic approaches.angelic is one of those plants that has remarkable benefits – some of which are still unknown – for the overall well-being of our body, for our health, both physical and mental.
Completely harmless to humans, all parts of the common angelica (Angelica archangelica) are edible: the flowers, stems, petioles, and even the roots of this type of plant can be eaten. Very frequently used in cooking, its stems can be incorporated into pastries, to accompany candied fruits, or to naturally flavor desserts thanks to the sugar they contain.
In addition to the use of its flowers and stems, angelica is primarily cultivated and harvested for its root. It is in fact its roots that contain the plant's essential natural active ingredients. Among the main ones are coumarins (such as osthol and osthenol) and phenolic acids such as chlorogenic acid. These natural compounds are responsible for the plant's anxiolytic properties: angelica essential oil is recognized for its effectiveness against anxiety, chronic and nervous fatigue, and insomnia.
Furthermore, thanks to its antispasmodic and carminative action, angelica root also contains active ingredients that contribute to the well-being of the digestive system as well as to the proper functioning of digestion. To make the most of its virtues, it is recommended to consume angelica in the form of a decoction or infusion. Diluted in hot water and accompanied by a teaspoon of honey, its aromatic richness is combined with its therapeutic benefits.
L'angelica essential oil is recognized for its anticoagulant effects, promoting the proper functioning and vitality of the entire body.
The dosage traditionally observed in herbal medicine consists of taking food supplements containing a certain dosage of angelica: angelica root powder is incorporated into the capsule, for an amount varying from 50 to 150 mg per day, depending on the formulas and the duration of the treatment prescribed by a healthcare professional.
The cosmetic action of angelica to care for and moisturize the skin
In addition to its proven health benefits,angelic occupies an important place in the world of cosmetics. Scientifically proven, its various positive effects for the well-being of our skin contribute to making it one of the most sought-after plants in this field, ensuring it a bright future in the natural cosmetics.
Its active ingredients are beneficial for maintaining the vitality and health of the facial skin are numerous. The purifying properties of its natural active ingredients allow angelica to promote the elimination of toxins from the epidermis. Furthermore, its soothing action makes angelica a valuable ally for skin prone to redness and to the little ones superficial irritationsA cream or facial treatment containing it will have a noticeable effect on the sensitive skin. By effectively stimulating cell renewal, daily application ofangelic on the face serves to effectively combat the drought and the premature aging of the skin.
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