Quick summary

Angelica archangelica, commonly referred to as Angelica, is a plant whose extracts, particularly leaf and root components, have been traditionally used in various herbal remedies. Recent clinical research has started to provide evidence for its potential in improving symptoms of overactive bladder, with some indication of its compositional richness in coumarins and phenolic compounds. However, the clinical evidence base remains limited, and more robust trials are needed for conclusive recommendations.

What is it

Angelica archangelica is a biennial herbaceous plant from the Apiaceae family. It has been used historically in traditional medicine for various health-related purposes. The parts of the plant commonly used include the leaves and roots, which contain a complex mixture of bioactive compounds.

Traditional uses

Traditionally, Angelica has been utilized in herbal medicine to support digestive health, respiratory conditions, and as a general tonic. It has also been included in remedies intended to relieve urinary tract issues among other uses in folk medicine.

Active compounds

Chemical analyses show that Angelica archangelica contains a distinct profile rich in coumarins and phenolic compounds. These compounds are thought to contribute to its biological activities, although the antioxidant contribution appears lower compared to flavonoid-rich herbs.

Potential benefits with evidence levels

  • Improvement of symptoms in overactive bladder (OAB): Moderate evidence suggests Angelica archangelica leaf extract may improve symptoms such as reduction in daytime voids, urgency, and quality of life. This is based on a pilot randomized, triple-blind controlled clinical trial involving 143 participants showing statistically significant symptom improvements after 6 weeks of supplementation (PMID: 41368330).

Side effects

No significant adverse effects were reported in the clinical trial investigating Angelica archangelica for overactive bladder symptoms. However, some literature on related herbal medicines suggests a potential for phototoxicity due to coumarins, though direct evidence for Angelica archangelica adverse effects in humans is lacking.

Drug interactions

There is no direct clinical evidence regarding drug interactions with Angelica archangelica. Given its coumarin content, cautious use may be warranted with anticoagulant medications, but no specific interaction data are currently available.

Who should avoid it

While no specific contraindications have been identified in clinical research, caution is advised for individuals with known sensitivity to coumarins or furocoumarins due to potential phototoxic risks observed in related plants. Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended without medical supervision because of insufficient safety data.

Evidence limitations

The clinical evidence for Angelica archangelica is currently limited, primarily based on a single pilot randomized controlled trial focusing on overactive bladder symptoms. Sample sizes were modest, and long-term safety and efficacy data are lacking. Evidence for other benefits is insufficient, and traditional or preclinical data should not be considered clinical proof. Furthermore, variations in preparation, dosing, and quality control complicate the interpretation of results. Further well-designed studies are needed to better understand its safety profile, efficacy, and interactions.

References

  • López-Seoane J, Gesteiro E, Castro-Alija MJ, Quesada-González C, Pérez-Ruiz M, González-Gross M. Effects of Angelica archangelica Extract on Overactive Bladder: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. 2025; PMID: 41368330.
  • Häßler M, Wetzel K, Tishakova T, Dimitrova N, Niedenthal T, Montero L, Ayala-Cabrera JF, Schmitz OJ. Comparison of the phenolic and antioxidant potential of five European herbal remedies by effect-directed analysis using offline two-dimensional liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry. 2026; PMID: 41603958.
  • Salm S, Rutz J, van den Akker M, Blaheta RA, Bachmeier BE. Current state of research on the clinical benefits of herbal medicines for non-life-threatening ailments. 2023; PMID: 37841934.
  • Holtmann G, Schrenk D, Madisch A, Allescher HD, Ulrich-Merzenich G, Mearin F, Larrey D, Malfertheiner P. Use of Evidence-Based Herbal Medicines for Patients with Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders: A Conceptional Framework for Risk-Benefit Assessment and Regulatory Approaches. 2020; PMID: 31770769.
  • Teschke R, Eickhoff A. Herbal hepatotoxicity in traditional and modern medicine: actual key issues and new encouraging steps. 2015; PMID: 25954198.

Last reviewed

April 2026

Informational disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have existing health conditions, or are taking prescription medications. Efficacy and safety of Angelica archangelica remain under investigation, and clinical outcomes may vary.