What is sonbol khataei (سنبل ختایی)?

Sonbol khataei is the Persian name usually given to Angelica archangelica and to its close relatives. All of them are warm, sweet-smelling roots. They sit in the same plant family as golpar (Heracleum persicum) and fennel.

Is this the same as dong quai?

No. Dong quai is Angelica sinensis, a related plant from East Asia, used mainly as a tonic for the blood and for women's health. Angelica archangelica is the European and Persian fragrant digestive tonic. The two plants' uses overlap, but they aren't the same.

Can I take angelica every day?

Small kitchen or tea-strength amounts (1 cup per day) are generally well tolerated for short stretches. For longer use, or therapeutic use, work with a qualified herbalist. Always avoid it in pregnancy.

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Chapter 1 of 10

Angelica

If You Read Nothing Else

A classic warming digestive tonic: eases bloating, gas, and cold-type cramps.

A fragrant root, used traditionally after illness to bring back appetite and strength.

Helps loosen mucus in a damp, lingering chest.

Different from Chinese dong quai (Angelica sinensis), though the two are related.

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