Archangelica

/ˌɑːrkænˈdʒɛlɪkə/ noun

Definition

A fragrant herb (angelica archangelica) also called angelica; traditionally used in medicine and liqueurs.

Etymology

From Medieval Latin 'archangelica,' literally 'the archangel's plant,' so named because medieval herbalists believed it had divine healing properties granted by the Archangel Michael. The plant became associated with protection and healing in European folk medicine.

Kelly Says

Medieval people literally named a plant after an archangel because they thought it could heal almost anything—and amazingly, angelica actually does have compounds that help digestion and can reduce anxiety, so they weren't completely wrong!

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