Angelica archangelica L. (syn Archangelica officinalis; American angelica is A. atropurpurea)
 
Common Name:  Angelica, archangel, garden angelica, masterwort, holy ghost, wild celery, wild parsnip.
Family:  Apiaceae/Umbelliferae
Parts Used:  Root, seeds, leaf, stem
Actions:  Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Astringent, Carminative, Cholagogue, Circulatory, Stimulant,  Diaphoretic, Digestive bitter, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Expectorant, Stimulant Tonic
Taste:  Bitter Pungent Sweet
Energy:  Dry Warm
Has been used by the Chinese for more than two thousand years, as a strengthener of the heart, lung, spleen, liver and kidney meridians and as a tonic for the blood. It is traditionally characterized as a warm atmospheric energy that promotes blood circulation. It is also known as Don Quai and is primarily known for its uses in treating women's problems including lack of sexual desire, the symptoms of menopause, cramps and PMS. It aids in increasing the effects of hormones in both men and women and is widely used as an aphrodisiac. Dong Quai is particularly useful in helping to end hot flashes and menstrual cramps. It is also used as a liver tonic and in treating sciatica and shingles. It is traditionally characterized as a warm atmospheric energy that promotes blood circulation. 
The root has earned a reputation as the "ultimate herb" for women. It is widely used among Chinese women as a fortifying daily tonic.  It naturally provides balancing and normalizing support for women's unique rhythms, cycles and body systems. It is not recommended during pregnancy or menstruation or for people taking blood thinning agents. Reports indicate that dong quai may lower blood pressure in some individuals.