Angelica (angelica archangelica) vs Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Angelica (angelica archangelica)

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

About

Angelica (Angelica archangelica) is a large, aromatic biennial herb growing up to about 6½ ft (2 m), with ridged hollow stems, bright green divided leaves, and greenish-white flowers arranged in umbrella-like clusters (umbels).

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a perennial plant reaching about 2 ft (60 cm), with lance-shaped leaves and white or yellowish flower spikes. Its rhizome (underground stem) is pungent, aromatic, and widely used as a culinary spice. NCCIH says ginger may help nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and might reduce menstrual cramps, but most studies of motion sickness have not found it helpful.

Safety & precautions

Do not use during pregnancy or while nursing. Avoid if you experience heavy menstrual bleeding. Do not confuse European angelica with Chinese Angelica (Angelica sinensis), as they have different strengths and applications.

Ulcers & High Doses: Not advised in medicinal amounts for peptic ulcers; do not take essential oil internally except under professional supervision. Pregnancy & Blood-Thinners: If you are pregnant or take anticoagulant medication, take medicinal amounts of ginger only under supervision. Gastric Irritation: May cause mild stomach upset; taking it with food can help.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.