| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Angelica archangelica |
| Plant Family | Apiaceae |
| Plant Part Used | Root, Rhizome |
| Extraction Method | Steam Distillation |
| Origin Regions | Northern Europe (Scandinavia), France, Eastern Europe, cultivated broadly in temperate zones |
Description
Angelica Root essential oil is distilled from the roots and rhizomes of Angelica archangelica, a tall biennial herb of the Apiaceae family. The plant is native to northern and temperate European regions, where its imposing flowering stalks and aromatic roots have long held value in folk medicine, cuisine, and perfumery. The root develops highly concentrated aromatic compounds over years of growth, making it the preferred source for oil over the aerial parts or seeds.
When distilled, the oil displays a soft yet complex aroma: earthy, musky, herbaceous, and slightly spicy with a distant ambrette-like nuance. It is prized in natural perfumery not just for its scent, but for its fixative properties—helping stabilize and extend lighter notes in a blend. The component cyclopentadecanolide, a musk-like lactone, even at low concentrations, contributes to its lasting and musky base character.
Because the root must be mature and well-dried before distillation, yield is modest, which contributes to the oil’s higher cost. Some producers carefully age harvested roots before distillation to deepen the aroma and reduce harsh or volatile notes. Others may use fractional or controlled distillation protocols to preserve sensitive compounds and reduce phototoxic or furocoumarin content.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Medieval Europe / Scandinavia | Herbal medicine, flavoring, protective herb | Angelica was considered a protective plant, used to ward off disease or evil spirits |
| 16th–19th Centuries | Botanical medicine, liquor flavoring | Angelica roots were among the botanicals used in Chartreuse, Bénédictine, absinthe, and herbal bitters |
| Modern Aromatherapy & Perfumery | Fixative in blends, aromatic therapy | Recognized for both its grounding scent and its historical depth in both fragrance and herbal traditions |
Historically, Angelica’s roots were prized for medicinal and culinary uses in Europe. Early herbalists valued it for digestive, circulatory, and respiratory support. The aromatic qualities also helped secure its inclusion in liqueurs and bitters, where it imparted complex woody-spicy character. Over time, perfumers adopted Angelica root oil for its rare musky base character, and aromatherapists for its emotionally balancing aroma—though always used cautiously because of its phototoxic potential.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Earthy, musky, herbaceous, woody, slightly spicy |
| Scent Strength | Medium to strong (base / middle note) |
| Blends Well With | Cedarwood, Vetiver, Patchouli, Bergamot, Clary Sage, Frankincense, other woods and resins |
Angelica Root oil in a blend can serve as a bridging or anchoring note. Because of its fixative nature, it harmonizes and steadies more volatile citrus or floral top notes. It is best used in small proportions, where its depth adds richness without overwhelming lighter components.
Chemical Composition
While full GC/MS profiles vary by region, age, and distillation method, typical constituents include:
| Compound | Approx. % / Range* | Function / Note |
|---|---|---|
| α-Pinene, β-Pinene | Variable | Contribute fresh, green-woody top notes AromaWeb+1 |
| Δ-3-Carene | Present | Subtle woody / resinous character |
| Myrcene, Limonene | Minor amounts | Light citrus or herbal nuance |
| Cyclopentadecanolide | Trace (<1%) | Musky lactone, enhances fixative strength, contributes base richness Wikipedia+2Eden Botanicals+2 |
| Coumarins / Furocoumarins (e.g. angelicin, bergapten) | Trace | Responsible for phototoxic risk AromaWeb+4Wikipedia+4Ayurvedic Oils+4 |
* Percentages are approximate and depend on harvest, root age, soil, and distillation method.
Because of its chemical complexity, Angelica root oil is sensitive to oxidation and must be stored carefully to maintain integrity.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance / Warning |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not for internal use. Pure essential oil may cause irritation, toxicity, or adverse interactions. |
| Topical Use | Use with caution. If used topically, dilute to safe levels. Angelica Root is considered phototoxic — skin exposed to treated areas must avoid sunlight for at least 12 hours. Ayurvedic Oils+3AromaWeb+3CloudFront+3 |
| Pregnancy / Children | Avoid use during pregnancy, lactation, or on infants without professional guidance. |
| Eyes / Mucous Membranes | Avoid contact; do not use around sensitive areas. |
| Storage | Store in dark glass bottles, in cool and dark conditions. Minimize exposure to air or light to slow oxidation. |
Because of furocoumarins (like angelicin, bergapten) that may remain, Angelica Root must be handled as a phototoxic oil. The IFRA standard for Angelica root oil specifies maximum safe concentrations to mitigate phototoxic risk in product formulations. CloudFront Also, oxidized oils may increase irritation potential.Wild As The Wind Essential Oils+1
Uses & Application Steps
Aromatic Use
- Add 2–3 drops of Angelica Root oil to a diffuser or blend with lighter oils (e.g., citrus, florals) to add depth.
- Diffuse for 15–20 minutes in meditative or grounding environments.
- Use sparingly—the fixative nature means a small amount is sufficient.
Topical Use
- Dilute 1 drop of Angelica Root in 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of carrier oil (e.g. jojoba, fractionated coconut).
- Apply to pulse points, lower back, or soles (avoiding sun exposure).
- Wait 12 hours before any UV exposure.
Blending / Perfume Use
- Use Angelica Root as a base note in perfumery blends to stabilize other notes.
- Keep its proportion modest (e.g. <5%) especially when blending with citrus or photosensitive oils.
- Monitor ageing of blends; strong aromatic compounds from Angelica may deepen or intensify over time.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| AromaWeb — Angelica Root Essential Oil Profile | https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/angelica-root-essential-oil.php AromaWeb |
| Eden Botanicals — Angelica Root CO₂ Extract | https://www.edenbotanicals.com/angelica-root-co2.html Eden Botanicals |
| Florihana — Angelica Root Organic | https://www.florihana.com/us/essential-oils/89-angelique-root-organic-1.html Florihana |
| IFRA Standard (Amendment 49) — Angelica Root Oil | https://d3t14p1xronwr0.cloudfront.net/docs/standards/IFRA_STD_086.pdf CloudFront |
Citations & References
- IFRA Standard — Angelica root oil (Amendment 49) CloudFront
- AromaWeb: Angelica Root Essential Oil profile AromaWeb
- Eden Botanicals: Angelica Root CO₂ extract Eden Botanicals
- Florihana: Angelica Root Organic product page Florihana
- Wikipedia: Angelica archangelica plant, constituents, uses Wikipedia
- Cyclopentadecanolide as perfume fixative Wikipedia
Conclusion
Angelica Root essential oil occupies a distinctive space in aromatic science and perfumery, offering depth, muskiness, and emotional balance. Distilled from mature Angelica archangelica roots, its fragrance reflects both earthiness and a subtle complexity. While modest in yield, it brings powerful fixative qualities and aromatic nuance, making it prized in well-crafted blends.
Because of its phototoxic potential due to residual furocoumarins, Angelica Root oil demands respect in formulation and use. Dilution, caution with sun exposure, and adherence to safety limits are essential to harnessing its benefits without harm. When handled carefully, it can enhance blends by stabilizing aromas and offering emotional grounding.
In the broader context, Angelica Root bridges herbal tradition, historical perfumery, and modern aromatherapy. Its inclusion in your repertoire underscores a commitment to depth and discernment in essential oils. May this profile serve as a reliable guide as you continue building your EssentialOilsPedia.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oil. Conduct your own research by reviewing all citations and links provided.