What does the word “angelic” mean?
The etymology of the word "angelica" dates back to the medieval Latin "angelica," itself derived from the classical Latin "angelus." This term has several meanings, but one of them is linked to the legend that angelica was used to treat plague epidemics in the Middle Ages. This plant was said to be a gift from the angels, hence its name "angelica" or "angel herb."
Angelica is also associated with mythology and folklore, where it is sometimes considered a magical plant or one that carries divine virtues. Over time, angelica has become an emblematic plant in certain regions, such as the Poitevin Marsh in France, where it has acquired significant historical and cultural significance.
In the beginning…
The history and origins of angelica date back to ancient times, when this plant was already known for its medicinal properties and culinary uses. Its scientific name, Angelica archangelica, is inspired by the medieval belief that angelica was a gift from the archangels to cure ailments and protect against epidemics. Angelica is native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, particularly Europe and Asia. It is found primarily in mountainous regions, damp meadows, and river banks. This robust plant can reach a height of over two meters and features large, serrated leaves and umbels of small white or green flowers.
Over the centuries, angelica has been widely used for its medicinal properties. In ancient times, it was renowned for its carminative and digestive properties, and was often used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, colic, and respiratory problems. It was also used as a diuretic and to relieve joint pain. During the Middle Ages, angelica became even more popular in Europe for its medicinal properties, and it was associated with protection against plague epidemics and contagious diseases. The plant was believed to be a miraculous remedy offered by angels to heal the sick.
Angelica cultivation
Angelica is primarily grown in the temperate regions of northern Europe, particularly in France, Germany, Belgium, Scandinavia, and Eastern Europe. These regions offer favorable climatic conditions, with soils rich in organic matter, which are conducive to growing this plant.
Growing angelica begins with selecting a suitable location. This plant prefers organically rich, moist, and slightly acidic soils. It thrives in partially shaded areas protected from strong winds. Planting is usually done in spring, using seeds or young plants. Seeds should be stratified for a few weeks before planting to encourage germination. Plants should be spaced about one meter apart to allow for proper development.
Angelica requires regular care, including frequent watering and protection from pests. It reaches full maturity in two to three years. During this time, it develops its large green leaves and umbels of white or green flowers. Angelica is harvested in summer, when the seeds are ripe and the roots are well developed. The seeds can be harvested for future planting, while the roots are dug up, cleaned, and then dried for medicinal or culinary purposes.
What did you know about angelica in perfumery?
The angelica distillation process is used to extract the essential oil from this plant. First, the parts of the plant used, whether the seeds or roots, are harvested and dried to reduce their water content. Then, these parts of the plant are placed in a still, a specially designed distillation apparatus. The still consists of three parts: a vat of heated water, a reservoir containing the plants, and a distillation column. The water is heated to create steam, which rises through the column and passes through the plants. The steam then passes through a cooling coil, where it cools and condenses to form a liquid. This liquid is a combination of water and essential oil. Because the essential oil is lighter than water and immiscible with it, it floats on its surface. The essential oil is then collected separately. The process of distilling angelica produces a precious essential oil, which is used in perfumery for its aromatic, herbaceous and woody scent, as well as in aromatherapy for its therapeutic properties, particularly its relaxing and digestive virtues.
Angelica has a unique and distinctive fragrance, characterized by aromatic, herbaceous, and woody notes. Its scent is often described as fresh, green, and slightly spicy. It also has an earthy, rooty note that gives it an intriguing depth.
Angelica's olfactory accords vary depending on the parts of the plant used. The essential oil extracted from the seeds tends to be lighter and more aromatic, with fresh, herbaceous notes. The essential oil extracted from the roots, on the other hand, has a woodier, earthier tone. In perfumery, angelica is often used to add green, herbaceous, and aromatic nuances to olfactory compositions. It blends well with other natural ingredients such as lemon, bergamot, cedarwood, vetiver, patchouli, lavender, and galbanum. These accords create fresh, sophisticated, and elegant fragrances, while adding a touch of mystery and subtlety.
Overall, angelica brings a unique dimension to perfumes, with its complex olfactory palette and fresh, green and woody accords, which make it a prized ingredient among perfumers for creating original and captivating compositions.
Good to know!
Angelica has several health benefits and virtues. It is known for its digestive, carminative, and antispasmodic properties, helping to relieve digestive problems such as bloating and abdominal cramps. It is also used for its relaxing properties, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Angelica is rich in antioxidants, thus strengthening the immune system and protecting cells from oxidative damage. It is also used in aromatherapy to soothe sleep disorders. Additionally, angelica has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve joint and muscle pain.
The legendary angelica perfumes
Used as a room fragrance, angelica is also found in legendary compositions such as:
• Guerlain Angélique Noire Eau de Parfum
• Drakkar Noir Eau de Parfum by Guy Laroche
• Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Angelique Lilac Eau de Toilette
• Angelique in the rain by EDPFM
• Blue citron from Comme des Garçons
To date, our high-end perfume collection does not yet include any fragrances or home fragrances based on angelica. However, we invite you to discover all our fragrances with our discovery box .
