Angelica root (Angelica archangelica), also known as angelica, is a versatile medicinal plant with digestive, analgesic and circulatory properties. Despite mild toxicity, it is commonly used in herbal spirits and gin. Its origin is in northern Europe, but it is grown throughout the northern hemisphere. In gin distillation, the roots are mostly used at a dosage of 0.25 kg/100L to impart sweet and tart woodland aromas.
Background
Angelica root is also known as angelica. The Latin name is Angelica archangelica. Other familiar names are: Angelica, Norwegian angelica, anglica root, archangelica root, angelica clover root, angelica sternum, cholera root, angelica, garden angelica, spirit root.
Use of angelica root
Although the plant and its juices are considered slightly poisonous and can cause dermatitis, the root was often used as a medicinal plant. The active ingredient of the roots is even today used as one of the main ingredients of the medicine Iberogast. In addition to its digestive properties, it also has analgesic and circulatory properties.
Angelica root is often used in many herbal spirits and also in gin. It is mainly the roots and also the seeds that are used in distillation.
In a few recipes, the plant is also used for the preparation of dishes, especially sweet baked goods.
Growth area and origin
The origin of the angelica plant is northern Europe and probably Iceland. Today it is cultivated and processed almost all over the northern hemisphere.
Dosing and distillation
In gin distillation, the use of angelica root starts at 0.25kg/100L. Depending on how sweet the gin should be, the dose can be increased as desired.
Using the seeds gives a similar result, but the effect is weaker. The use of the seeds is very little common and less documented.
Taste influence on the gin
The taste of the root is very diverse. On the one hand, the root is very sweet and tastes primarily of herbs. This is comparable to a sweet herbal schnapps. On the other hand, it also tastes earthy, bitter and has many forest aromas when dosed higher.
