Essential Oils & Aromatherapy · Essential oil
Angelica Root Oil
Angelica archangelica L. · also called Angelica archangelica oil, European angelica root oil
Angelica root oil is a woody, earthy oil taken from the root of European angelica, a tall plant in the carrot family. It is used mainly as a fragrance and flavour ingredient. We found no human trial of the oil, only lab and animal work. The main caution: it can make skin react badly to sunlight, so it is not for skin that will meet the sun, and it is not for swallowing.
General information, not medical advice. Last substantive update · Not medically reviewed. A named clinician has not signed off on this page. How this page is made
About Angelica Root Oil
Angelica root oil is distilled from the root of Angelica archangelica and is mainly a fragrance ingredient. Safety comes first: the plant contains furocoumarins, which can make skin react to ultraviolet light. Human research on the oil is missing, and what exists is lab and animal work. The oil is not for swallowing, and babies, children, pregnancy and pets are all areas with no safety data.
What angelica root oil is
Angelica root oil is the essential oil distilled from the root of Angelica archangelica L., in the carrot family (Apiaceae). GBIF lists this as the accepted name.
The makeup varies a lot. In a Serbian study the roots held 0.10% oil, mostly alpha-pinene (29.7%), delta-3-carene (14.2%) and a mix of beta-phellandrene and limonene (13.2%). An Italian oil was alpha-pinene 21.3%, delta-3-carene 16.5% and limonene 16.4%. A 2025 oil was delta-3-carene 24.26%, limonene 19.81% and alpha-pinene 14.96%. An Indian oil was quite different, with limonene 18.39%, vinylguaiacol 14.10% and citronellol acetate 15.91%.
Furocoumarins such as bergapten and 8-methoxypsoralen are listed in angelica preparations by the EMA, but the sources we read do not say how much of them end up in the oil.
What people use it for, and how strong the evidence is
No trial of the oil in people was found. In a dish, root oils stopped some bacteria and a yeast from growing, and one cell study found lower interleukin-6. In mice, the root oil reduced some seizures but also impaired movement. All of this is insufficient evidence.
Two trials of angelica leaf products for bladder symptoms exist. The 2025 pilot (143 adults, leaf extract) was positive for daytime bathroom trips. The earlier trial (69 men, a leaf product from the maker) was null overall. These are not the oil.
Using the oil for mood, sleep or pain is common in aromatherapy writing, but we found no study.
The research in one view
Almost everything is lab work on a handful of oil samples whose makeup differs. A 2021 review of root oils says composition strongly varies with outside factors and that more work is needed on how effects happen and on standardising oils. The cancer-related facts in the EMA paper concern the drug 8-MOP with UV light, not angelica oil.
No independent trial of angelica root oil was found for any use.
Root oil, seed oil, leaf extract and dong quai are different things
Angelica root oil is not the same as angelica root extract or herbal tea, and not the same as seed oil. A 2025 study found that seed oil was mostly beta-phellandrene, alpha-pinene, alpha-phellandrene and beta-myrcene. The bladder trials used a leaf extract. The EMA paper is about herbal preparations.
Dong quai is Angelica sinensis, a Chinese species. It is a different plant with different research. See the herb pages linked below.
What regulators and industry say
IFRA Standard 086 (2020, Amendment 49) restricts angelica root oil for most finished-product categories because of phototoxicity, and applies the limit if the furocoumarin level is unknown. The EMA's herbal committee reflection paper (2007) concerns furocoumarins in herbal preparations and proposes a UV warning and excluding children and pregnant women.
Poison Control and Pet Poison Helpline give general essential-oil advice and do not name angelica.
At a glance
Traditional uses history, not proof
- A 2021 review says plant roots have been used in traditional medicine since ancient times; it does not describe angelica root oil specifically.
- Used as a fragrance ingredient; the fragrance industry lists a standard for it from 1975 onward.
- The EMA paper says Angelica has GRAS (generally recognised as safe) status in the US.
Studied for research
- Germ-killing in a dish, lab only, insufficient
- Inflammation signals in cells, lab only, insufficient
- Seizures in mice, animal only, insufficient
- Overactive bladder, leaf extract (not the oil), low
- Night-time urination, leaf product (not the oil), mixed
- Mood, sleep, pain by scent, no study, insufficient
Main compounds
- alpha-Pinene
- delta-3-Carene
- Limonene
- Furocoumarins such as bergapten (in angelica preparations; oil content not stated)
Common forms
- Essential oil (distilled from root)
- Fragrance and flavour ingredient
- Seed oil (a different product)
- Leaf extract (a different product)
- Dong quai (Angelica sinensis; a different plant)
Research links: IFRA Standard: Angelica root oil · EMA: Furocoumarins in Angelica archangelica preparations · Poison Control: Essential oils · Pet Poison Helpline: Essential oils · Phytophotodermatitis review 2024 (abstract) · Antiseizure study in mice (abstract) · Overactive bladder trial, leaf extract (abstract) · Research Library · Genes & Biomarkers Library
What it is and its history
- Accepted scientific name
- Angelica archangelica
- Naming authority
- L.
- Common names
- Angelica root oil (English); Angelica archangelica oil (English); European angelica (English)
- Family or group
- Apiaceae (carrot family), per GBIF.
- Classification
- Plantae > Apiaceae > Angelica > Angelica archangelica
- Native range
- Not checked.
- Habitat
- Not checked.
- What it looks like
- Part used: The oil in this page is from the root (IFRA standard and root-oil analyses). Seed oil and leaf extracts are different products.
- Look-alikes and adulterants
- Dong quai is Angelica sinensis, a Chinese species with a different history. Angelica seed oil and herb extracts differ from root oil.
Photographs
Traditional use and history history, not clinical proof
| Tradition or era | Documented use | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Fragrance-industry regulation | IFRA lists earlier publications of its angelica root oil standard in 1975, 1978, 2001 and 2015, and the current version in 2020. | IFRA Standard 2020 |
| Traditional medicine (general statement) | A 2021 review says plant roots have been widely used in traditional medicine since ancient times and that root oils were reviewed for composition and bioactivity. It does not describe angelica root oil use specifically. | Lunz and Stappen 2021 |
| United States food status | The EMA paper says Angelica has GRAS (generally recognised as safe) status in the US. We did not read the US text itself. | EMA 2007 |
Traditional use shows how it was used. It does not show that it works or is safe today.
What is inside, and how it may work
What it contains and how those compounds act in cells and animals. Laboratory and animal mechanisms are not proven effects in people.
Main compounds
| Compound | Family | Where it is concentrated | Activity studied | Level of evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| alpha-Pinene PubChem 6654 | monoterpene | Root oil 29.7% (Serbia), 21.3% (Italy), 14.96% (a 2025 oil). | Main compound in several root-oil analyses. No specific effect shown in the sources read. 1 5 17 19 | Lab analysis |
| delta-3-Carene PubChem 26049 | monoterpene | Root oil 14.2% (Serbia), 16.5% (Italy), 24.26% (a 2025 oil). | Main compound in several root-oil analyses. 1 5 17 19 | Lab analysis |
| Limonene PubChem 22311 | monoterpene | Root oil 16.4% (Italy), 19.81% (a 2025 oil), 18.39% (an Indian oil); 13.2% for limonene with beta-phellandrene (Serbia). | Oxidises in air into skin allergens (limonene hydroperoxides). 5 17 2 3 19 | Lab analysis and patch test registry |
| Bergapten (5-methoxypsoralen) PubChem 2355 | linear furocoumarin | Listed in Angelica archangelica preparations Not given for the oil. | Phototoxic with UVA. IARC: probably carcinogenic to humans with UV (Group 2A), per the EMA paper. 4 19 | Regulatory statement |
| Xanthotoxin (8-methoxypsoralen) PubChem 4114 | linear furocoumarin | Listed in Angelica archangelica preparations Not given for the oil. | Phototoxic with UVA. IARC: carcinogenic to humans with UV (Group 1) as a drug, per the EMA paper. 4 19 | Regulatory statement |
| Angelicin (isopsoralen) PubChem 10658 | angular furocoumarin | Listed in Angelica archangelica preparations Not given for the oil. | Genotoxic with UVA, probably weaker than the two methoxypsoralens, per the EMA paper. 4 19 | Regulatory statement |
Mechanisms, receptors and pathways
| Target or pathway | Gene or receptor | What was found | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light-activated DNA binding | DNA | Binding of light-activated furocoumarins to DNA is well characterised, and they also interact with proteins and cell membrane fats, according to the EMA paper. This is the basis of the sun reaction. 4 7 | Established mechanism, cells and humans (drug treatment) |
| Additive effect of mixed furocoumarins | n/a | In hamster lung cells with UVA, the light-triggered damage from mixtures (including one modelled on an Angelica archangelica extract) could be predicted by adding the single furocoumarins. 15 | Lab (cells) |
| Interleukin-6 and inflammation-linked microRNAs | IL-6, miR-126, miR-146a | The oil lowered interleukin-6 and reverted changes in miR-126 and miR-146a in challenged human cells. This is a cell finding only. 6 | Lab (cells) |
Absorption, metabolism and elimination
- Absorption
- Not described for the oil. The EMA paper says furocoumarins in preparations do not directly reflect a person's exposure because compounds are changed before they reach the blood.
- Distribution
- Not established.
- Metabolism
- The EMA paper says 8-MOP is largely cleared by first-pass liver metabolism, based on old small studies, and that studies of herbal preparations are absent.
- Elimination
- Not established.
- Bioavailability
- Not established for the oil.
Isolated compounds versus whole extracts
The EMA paper says toxicity data on individual furocoumarins in Angelica and on its preparations are almost lacking, so it used 8-MOP and 5-MOP as models. A cell study found that furocoumarin mixtures behaved roughly additively. Neither measured the essential oil.
Nutritional composition
Not a nutrient source.
1 mixed findings1 low certainty5 not enough evidence
What is Angelica Root Oil good for?
The uses people ask about and how strong the evidence is for each. Read the certainty label first. We found no trial of angelica root oil in people for any use, so every result below is lab work, animal work, a different product, or an absence of research.
Benefits, one by one
Each card is a research question, not a promise. Tap a goal to filter. Open a card to see the studies, doses and limits.
Germ-killing in a dish (angelica root oil)
Not enough evidenceIn test-tube work, angelica root oil stopped the growth of several bacteria and a yeast. No study in people or animals was found.
3 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Two lab studies tested root oil from Serbia and from Italy in a dish.
Results
Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli growth was stopped at 14.2 and 28.4 microlitres per mL. The Italian oil stopped several gut-related bacteria and Candida albicans, and was weaker against bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.
Effect sizes as reported
Lowest stopping amounts 0.13 to 2.25% by volume (Italian oil) and 14.2 to 28.4 microlitres per mL (Serbian oil).
Why this rating
Lab dishes only. Two different oils with different makeups. No animal or human test.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Who was studied
No people. Bacteria and yeast in a dish.
Limits
The authors of one study suggest the oil could be a food preservative or natural antibiotic. A dish result does not show that. Do not use the oil for an infection.
Why researchers looked
Researchers look for natural preservatives and germ-killers.
Traditional use
Root oils are said in a 2021 review to have been used in traditional medicine since ancient times; the review does not describe angelica root oil specifically.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Plant oils rich in terpenes (alpha-pinene, delta-3-carene, limonene) can disrupt microbes in a dish. The studies did not test how.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
A dish result does not make the oil an antibiotic or a safe skin or mouth treatment. See the Safety tab.
Inflammation signals in cells (angelica essential oil)
Not enough evidenceIn a cell study, angelica essential oil lowered an inflammation signal (interleukin-6) in human cells challenged with a bacterial toxin. It killed cells at high amounts.
1 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 2018 Italian study used human cell lines. It did not say which plant part the oil came from.
Results
At non-toxic amounts the oil lowered interleukin-6 in endothelial (blood-vessel lining) cells after a challenge. At high amounts the oil caused cell death in a blood cancer cell line.
Effect sizes as reported
Cell results only; no numbers given in the abstract.
Why this rating
One cell study. Not tested in animals or people.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Who was studied
No people. Human cell lines in a dish.
Limits
Lab result only. Plant part not stated in the abstract. The authors call it a basis for future work, not proof of benefit.
Why researchers looked
Inflammation is behind many conditions, so researchers screen plant oils for it.
Traditional use
Not described in the sources read.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
The oil reduced interleukin-6 and reverted changes in two small RNA markers (miR-126, miR-146a) in cells in a dish.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
The same study found the oil was toxic to cells at high amounts.
Seizure activity in mice (angelica root oil)
Not enough evidenceIn mice, angelica root oil shortened or delayed some seizures. It also made the mice move less well at the same amounts. No human study was found.
1 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A 2010 study in India gave root essential oil to mice with seizures caused by electric shock or a drug. Phenytoin and diazepam were the comparison drugs.
Results
The oil shortened the tonic convulsion phase, delayed the clonic phase and protected against death in the drug test, while causing motor impairment at the anti-seizure amounts.
Effect sizes as reported
Not given in the abstract.
Why this rating
One mouse study. Motor impairment at the same amounts. Amounts and numbers not in the abstract.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Who was studied
Mice only.
Limits
Animal results seldom carry over to people. The oil has not been shown to be safe or useful for any seizure condition. People with epilepsy should ask their doctor before using any essential oil.
Why researchers looked
Researchers screen plant oils for calming and anti-seizure activity.
Traditional use
Not described in the sources read.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
The authors suggest terpenes in the oil may be responsible. This was not tested.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
In the same mouse study the oil impaired movement at the amounts that reduced seizures. Nothing here supports use in epilepsy.
Scent use for mood, sleep, pain or stress
Not enough evidencePeople ask about smelling or massaging angelica root oil for calm, sleep or pain. We found no study of that. The evidence is insufficient.
0 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No trial of the oil by scent, massage or any route was found in a PubMed search.
Results
No results exist.
Effect sizes as reported
Not applicable.
Why this rating
No studies.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Who was studied
No people studied.
Limits
Absence of a study is not proof that nothing happens, or that nothing bad happens.
Why researchers looked
Essential oils are popular for mood and sleep.
Traditional use
Not described in the sources read.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not studied.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Scent and skin use both carry the sun-reaction risk described on the Safety tab.
Overactive bladder (angelica LEAF extract, not the oil)
Low certaintyA 2025 pilot trial of 143 adults gave angelica leaf extract or placebo for 6 weeks. Daytime bathroom trips and a symptom score improved more with the extract. This is a different product from the root oil.
1 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A randomised, triple-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial in Spain (registered NCT04357223). Adults aged 18 to 75 with overactive bladder symptoms were assigned to leaf extract or placebo (about 1.75 to 1) for 6 weeks. Diaries and questionnaires were used.
Results
Daytime voids improved more with the extract (p = 0.004). Symptom storage subscore p = 0.025. Quality of life p < 0.001. Night-time voids showed a near-significant gain (p = 0.069). Total score fell from 19.78 to 15.89 (extract) versus 19.64 to 16.38 (placebo).
Effect sizes as reported
Small to moderate effects (eta-squared 0.03 to 0.12).
Why this rating
One pilot trial with symptom diaries and questionnaires. Short. Not the root oil. No second trial found.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Who was studied
Adults with overactive bladder in Spain.
Limits
Leaf extract capsules are a different product from root essential oil. The abstract gives no safety summary.
Why researchers looked
Overactive bladder affects about 10.8% of men and 12.8% of women in Europe, according to the paper, and the usual drugs have side effects.
Traditional use
Not described in the sources read.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not tested in this trial.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
This was a swallowed leaf-extract supplement, not the essential oil. It tells us nothing about the oil. Nobody should swallow the oil.
Night-time urination in men (SagaPro, an angelica LEAF product)
Mixed findingsIn 69 men, a leaf product called SagaPro did not beat placebo overall for night-time bathroom trips. A later subgroup looked better. This is not the root oil.
1 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
A randomised double-blind trial in Iceland for 8 weeks in men aged 45 or older with at least two night-time voids, using voiding diaries. The first author works for SagaMedica, which makes the product.
Results
No significant difference between SagaPro and placebo overall. A later subgroup (low night-time bladder capacity index) showed an advantage for SagaPro.
Effect sizes as reported
No overall difference; subgroup only.
Why this rating
Null main result; the subgroup result is hypothesis-generating only. Industry-linked. Leaf product.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Who was studied
Men aged 45 and over.
Limits
Product from a different plant part and not essential oil.
Why researchers looked
Waking at night to urinate is common in older men.
Traditional use
Not described in the sources read.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not tested.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
A leaf product, not the root oil. Industry-linked trial.
Killing grain pests and plant worms (not a health use)
Not enough evidenceAngelica oil killed stored-grain weevils in a closed-air test and killed plant-parasitic worms in a dish. These are pest-control studies, not health studies.
3 studiesNot covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
Lab studies in China and India tested the oil on grain weevils and root-knot nematodes. A French study tested angelica SEED oil on crop fungi and a weed.
Results
Weevil death rose with amount (median lethal amount 164.38, 132.62 and 90.35 mg per litre of air at 24, 48 and 72 hours). Nematodes died in a dish. The two root oils had very different makeups.
Effect sizes as reported
LC50 values only.
Why this rating
Lab only and not about human health. Included because it appears in search results for the oil.
Form and dose studied
Not covered. This page gives no amounts and no way to use the oil.
Who was studied
No people. Insects and worms.
Limits
Does not show that the oil is safe or useful for people.
Why researchers looked
Natural pesticides are in demand.
Traditional use
Not described in the sources read.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Not a human mechanism.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
A strong insecticidal effect is not a sign of safety for people, children or pets.
Connections to the rest of health
How Angelica Root Oil connects to the rest of our health knowledge graph. Every link says what kind of connection it is. A safety link (for example to the liver) is a warning, not a benefit. A study that merely mentions a topic never creates a benefit link.
Explore every connection: goals, body systems, organs, symptoms, genes
A. Wellness goals
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Immune Support | Not enough evidence | Germ-killing in a dish (angelica root oil): In test-tube work, angelica root oil stopped the growth of several bacteria and a yeast. No study in people or animals was found. | 1 5 10 | |
| Inflammation Balance | Not enough evidence | Inflammation signals in cells (angelica essential oil): In a cell study, angelica essential oil lowered an inflammation signal (interleukin-6) in human cells challenged with a bacterial toxin. It killed cells at high amounts. | 6 | |
| Brain Health | Not enough evidence | Seizure activity in mice (angelica root oil): In mice, angelica root oil shortened or delayed some seizures. It also made the mice move less well at the same amounts. No human study was found. | 12 | |
| Calm Relaxation | Not enough evidence | Scent use for mood, sleep, pain or stress: People ask about smelling or massaging angelica root oil for calm, sleep or pain. We found no study of that. The evidence is insufficient. | ||
| Healthy Aging | Low certainty | Overactive bladder (angelica LEAF extract, not the oil): A 2025 pilot trial of 143 adults gave angelica leaf extract or placebo for 6 weeks. Daytime bathroom trips and a symptom score improved more with the extract. This is a different product from the root oil. Night-time urination in men (SagaPro, an angelica LEAF product): In 69 men, a leaf product called SagaPro did not beat placebo overall for night-time bathroom trips. A later subgroup looked better. This is not the root oil. | 11 16 |
B. Body systems
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Immune System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Germ-killing in a dish (angelica root oil) Studied for: Inflammation signals in cells (angelica essential oil) | 1 5 10 6 |
| Nervous System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Seizure activity in mice (angelica root oil) Studied for: Scent use for mood, sleep, pain or stress | 12 |
| Urinary System | Biological association | Low certainty | Studied for: Overactive bladder (angelica LEAF extract, not the oil) Studied for: Night-time urination in men (SagaPro, an angelica LEAF product) | 11 16 |
E. Health conditions
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dermatitis, Phototoxic | Adverse effect or risk | Documented risk | IFRA restricts the oil for phototoxicity; neat oil plus UVA reacted in 5 of 13 volunteers. Preparation or compound: Angelica root oil (neat, with UVA); furocoumarins |
8 4 |
| Photosensitivity of Skin | Adverse effect or risk | Documented risk | EMA recommends a UV warning on angelica products. Preparation or compound: Furocoumarins in Angelica archangelica preparations |
4 7 |
| Overactive bladder | Low certainty | One pilot trial of 143 adults; does not carry over to the oil. Preparation or compound: Angelica LEAF extract (not the oil) |
I. Biomarkers
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interleukin-6 (inflammation signal) in cells | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Measured in trials: decrease. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 6 |
| Microbe growth in a dish | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Measured in trials: decrease. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 1 5 |
| Seizure duration and onset in mice | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Measured in trials: decrease. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 12 |
| Daytime bathroom trips | Biological association | Low certainty | Measured in trials: decrease. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 11 |
| Night-time bathroom trips (nocturia) | Biological association | Mixed findings | Measured in trials: decrease. A lab change is not the same as a health benefit. | 11 16 |
K. Biological pathways
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interleukin-6 | Preliminary mechanism | Lab | Lowered in challenged human cells in a dish. | 6 |
| Cytochrome (liver) enzyme system | Preliminary mechanism | Regulatory statement | EMA says furocoumarin derivatives influence its activity; not tested for the oil. | 4 |
L. Active compounds
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| alpha-Pinene | Biological association | Lab analysis | Main compound in several root-oil analyses. No specific effect shown in the sources read. Preparation or compound: Root oil |
1 5 17 19 |
| delta-3-Carene | Biological association | Lab analysis | Main compound in several root-oil analyses. Preparation or compound: Root oil |
1 5 17 19 |
| Limonene | Biological association | Lab analysis and patch test registry | Oxidises in air into skin allergens (limonene hydroperoxides). Preparation or compound: Root oil |
5 17 2 3 19 |
| Bergapten (5-methoxypsoralen) | Biological association | Regulatory statement | Phototoxic with UVA. IARC: probably carcinogenic to humans with UV (Group 2A), per the EMA paper. Preparation or compound: Listed in Angelica archangelica preparations |
4 19 |
| Xanthotoxin (8-methoxypsoralen) | Biological association | Regulatory statement | Phototoxic with UVA. IARC: carcinogenic to humans with UV (Group 1) as a drug, per the EMA paper. Preparation or compound: Listed in Angelica archangelica preparations |
4 19 |
| Angelicin (isopsoralen) | Biological association | Regulatory statement | Genotoxic with UVA, probably weaker than the two methoxypsoralens, per the EMA paper. Preparation or compound: Listed in Angelica archangelica preparations |
4 19 |
Each connection is stored with the ingredient, the connected record, the kind of connection, the evidence status, the supporting studies, the preparation or compound involved, and a review date (last reviewed October 25, 2026).
The evidence
The research centre for Angelica Root Oil. Every record here was checked against PubMed or the publisher's page; we never list a study we have not verified.
Evidence by outcome
Bars show how many studies we found for each outcome, not how well it works. People are added up across trials only (reviews are not added, to avoid double counting).
How we rate evidence
High certainty
Several well-run trials or reviews agree; further research is unlikely to change the picture much.
Moderate certainty
Good trials point the same way, but some doubt remains.
Low certainty
Small, short or inconsistent trials. The finding could change with better research.
Very low certainty
Very little or very weak human data. Treat as a possibility only.
Mixed findings
Trials or reviews disagree with each other.
Not enough evidence
Not enough human research to say either way.
Evidence against
Good research found no benefit, or found harm.
We take the reviewers' own risk-of-bias and GRADE statements where they exist, and otherwise judge from study size, design, consistency, directness and whether a product matches what is sold. Many publications do not make evidence high. Method note: We read the abstracts of 14 PubMed papers, the IFRA standard and the EMA reflection paper in full, and the Poison Control and Pet Poison Helpline pages, and checked the plant name in GBIF and the compounds in PubChem. We could not read LiverTox, LactMed or NCCIH entries for angelica root oil.
Study library: every study we checked 19
| Study | Design | People | Product, dose, length | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aćimović 2017 Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Angelica archangelica Root Essential Oil Nat Prod Commun · PMID 30428212 |
Laboratory analysis and bacterial test (Serbia) lab |
Wild roots from Mt. Ozren, Serbia; two bacteria in a dish | Root essential oil, hydrodistilled root Not applicable (lab test) n/a · vs n/a |
Roots held 0.10% oil. Main compounds: alpha-pinene 29.7%, delta-3-carene 14.2%, and a mix of beta-phellandrene and limonene 13.2%. The oil stopped growth of S. aureus and E. coli in a dish (lowest amounts 14.2 and 28.4 microlitres per mL). Dish test only; no human outcome. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Oil yield, main compounds, and the lowest amount that stopped growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli Limitations: Test tube only. The authors call it a possible food preservative and natural antibiotic; a dish result does not show that. Single wild-root sample. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Barik 2026 Essential Oil of Angelica archangelica Roots as a Sustainable Alternative for Management of Meloidogyne incognita Chem Biodivers · PMID 42522911 · DOI |
Laboratory nematode study, India nematode |
Plant-parasitic worms (root-knot nematodes) in a dish | Root essential oil made into a nanoemulsion root Lab test 48 and 72 hours · vs n/a |
GC-MS found limonene 18.39%, vinylguaiacol 14.10% and citronellol acetate 15.91%. The nanoemulsion killed nematodes in a dish (median lethal amounts 145.49 and 72.87 micrograms per mL at 48 and 72 hours). The docking part is a computer model. LC50 values as stated. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Worm death and computer docking of one compound Limitations: Worms and computer models only. This oil had a very different makeup from the other root oils read, which shows how much the oil varies. Funding and conflicts: Conflict of interest: none declared. Read: abstract |
| Botvid 2026 Ten Years of Patch Testing to Hydroperoxides of Limonene and Linalool: Prevalence, Patterns and Clinical Insights Contact Dermatitis · PMID 41638887 · DOI |
Retrospective registry study, Denmark |
6719 Patients patch-tested at one Danish hospital, 2014 to 2025 |
Oxidised limonene (hydroperoxides) and oxidised linalool as patch-test allergens n/a Patch test n/a · vs n/a |
Limonene hydroperoxides were positive in 1.6% and linalool hydroperoxides in 3.1% of 6,719 patients. Limonene and linalool turn into these allergens on contact with air. 1.6% and 3.1% positive. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Share of patients with a positive patch test Limitations: Skin-clinic patients, not the general public. It does not test angelica oil. It is relevant only because angelica root oils analysed contained limonene (13 to 20% in three analyses). Funding and conflicts: Conflict of interest: none declared. Read: abstract |
| European Medicines Agency 2007 EMA Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products: Final reflection paper on the risks associated with furocoumarins contained in preparations of Angelica archangelica L. (EMEA/HMPC/317913/2006) EMA · Source |
Regulatory reflection paper regulatory |
Herbal medicinal products (not essential oil) | Angelica archangelica herbal preparations various Not given here n/a · vs n/a |
Linear furocoumarins (8-MOP and 5-MOP) are phototoxic and cause itching, pigmentation and redness with UVA. 8-MOP plus UV is classed by IARC as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1); 5-MOP as probably carcinogenic (Group 2A). The paper says toxicity data on individual furocoumarins in Angelica and on its herbal preparations are almost lacking, and suggests excluding children and pregnant women and warning about UV light. Not applicable. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Risk of furocoumarins Limitations: Written in 2007 about herbal preparations, not essential oil. The table of constituents lists extracts. It does not give furocoumarin content for the oil. Funding and conflicts: Regulatory document. Read: full-text |
| Fraternale 2014 Essential oil composition and antimicrobial activity of Angelica archangelica L. (Apiaceae) roots J Med Food · PMID 24788027 · DOI |
Laboratory analysis and bacterial/yeast test (Italy) lab |
Roots from central Italy; gut bacteria and Candida in a dish | Root essential oil root Not applicable (lab test) n/a · vs n/a |
Main compounds: alpha-pinene 21.3%, delta-3-carene 16.5%, limonene 16.4% and alpha-phellandrene 8.7%. The oil stopped growth of several gut-related bacteria and Candida albicans in a dish, and was weaker against bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. Dish test only; lowest stopping amounts 0.13% to 2.25% by volume for the microbes that were affected. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Main compounds and lowest amounts that stopped growth of several microbes Limitations: Test tube only. Single sample of roots from one region. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Fraternale 2018 The In Vitro Activity of Angelica archangelica L. Essential Oil on Inflammation J Med Food · PMID 30156459 · DOI |
Cell culture (in vitro) study, Italy lab |
Human cell lines in a dish (U937 cells; umbilical vein cells) | Angelica archangelica essential oil (plant part not stated in the abstract) not stated Not applicable (lab test) n/a · vs n/a |
High amounts of the oil caused cell death (apoptosis and necrosis) in U937 cells. At non-toxic amounts, the oil lowered interleukin-6 in umbilical vein cells challenged with LPS, and reverted the fall in miR-126 and miR-146a. Cell results only. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Cell death at high amounts; interleukin-6 and two small RNA markers after an inflammatory challenge Limitations: Cells in a dish. The abstract does not say which plant part the oil came from. The same oil was toxic to cells at high amounts. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Grosu Dumitrescu 2024 New Insights Concerning Phytophotodermatitis Induced by Phototoxic Plants Life (Basel) · PMID 39202761 · DOI |
Narrative review review |
Papers on plant-triggered skin reactions with sunlight | Furanocoumarin-containing plants (several) various n/a n/a · vs n/a |
The review says phytophotodermatitis is a non-immune skin reaction when furanocoumarins and psoralens meet ultraviolet light, causing redness, fluid blisters, swelling and darker skin. It names Apiaceae, Rutaceae and Moraceae among the main plant families. Prevention includes covering skin with clothing and gloves. None given. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Mechanism, plant families, diagnosis, prevention Limitations: A general review of plants, not angelica oil. A correction (erratum) to this paper was published in 2025; what it changed was not read. Funding and conflicts: Conflict of interest: none declared. Read: abstract |
| International Fragrance Association 2020 IFRA Standard: Angelica root oil (2020, Amendment 49) IFRA · Source |
Industry safety standard with summarised human and animal tests human and animal |
Human volunteers (30 men; 13 men and women) and animals | Angelica root oil (Angelica archangelica) root See limitations n/a · vs n/a |
Restriction set because of phototoxicity. In one test, 1% and 5% under a patch on 30 men, irradiated later, caused no phototoxic reactions. In another, neat oil on 13 volunteers with UVA six hours later caused reactions in 5 of 13. Animal tests found light-triggered irritation in guinea pigs and hairless mice, including at low concentrations in mice. If the furocoumarin level is unknown, the restriction applies. 5 of 13 reacted to neat oil plus UVA. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Phototoxicity Limitations: Industry body summary of older tests (1975 to 1987). The original reports were not read. It is a rule for makers of finished products, not for home use. Funding and conflicts: Industry standard (the fragrance industry sets and applies it). Read: full-text |
| Langrand 2025 Biocidal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of essential oils extracted from Angelica spp. cultivated on contaminated soils Sci Rep · PMID 41413236 · DOI |
Laboratory study, France lab |
Fungi, a weed and enzyme tests in the lab and on wheat plants | Essential oil from Angelica archangelica SEEDS grown on soil polluted with trace elements seed Lab test n/a · vs n/a |
This is SEED oil, not root oil. It was mostly beta-phellandrene, alpha-pinene, alpha-phellandrene and beta-myrcene. Antioxidant activity was moderate; the authors call the anti-inflammatory potential promising compared with other oils. It slowed several crop fungi and a ryegrass weed. IC50 values as stated. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Composition, antifungal, weed-killing, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory tests Limitations: A different part of the plant from the root oil, grown on polluted soil. Lab tests only. Funding and conflicts: Competing interests: none declared. Read: abstract |
| Lunz 2021 Back to the Roots: An Overview of the Chemical Composition and Bioactivity of Selected Root-Essential Oils Molecules · PMID 34070487 · DOI |
Narrative review (no pooled analysis) review |
Papers on nine root oils including Angelica archangelica | Root essential oils (several species) root n/a n/a · vs n/a |
The review says composition varies strongly with outside factors and that more work is needed on how the effects occur and on standardising the oils. The abstract does not give results for angelica root oil separately. None given. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Composition and reported bioactivity (anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, pesticidal and others) Limitations: The abstract does not describe human trials of angelica root oil. Funding and conflicts: Conflict of interest: none declared. Read: abstract |
| López-Seoane 2025 Effects of Angelica archangelica Extract on Overactive Bladder: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Food Sci Nutr · PMID 41368330 · DOI |
Pilot randomised triple blind placebo controlled trial, Spain |
143 Adults aged 18 to 75 with overactive bladder symptoms |
Angelica archangelica LEAF extract (a supplement, not the root oil) leaf Not covered 6 weeks · vs Placebo (groups 1.75 to 1) |
Daytime voids fell more with the leaf extract than with placebo (p = 0.004). The storage subscore of the symptom score improved (p = 0.025) and quality of life improved (p < 0.001). The night-time result was close but not significant (p = 0.069). Total symptom score went from 19.78 to 15.89 with the extract and from 19.64 to 16.38 with placebo. Effect sizes small to moderate (eta-squared 0.03 to 0.12). Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Daytime voids, night-time voids (nocturia), urgency scores, quality of life Limitations: Pilot trial, 6 weeks, symptom diaries and questionnaires. It is a leaf extract, not the root oil, so it says nothing about the oil. No safety summary in the abstract. Funding and conflicts: Authors declare no conflicts of interest. Funder not stated in the abstract. Registration: NCT04357223 Read: abstract |
| Pathak 2010 Evaluation of Antiseizure Activity of Essential Oil from Roots of Angelica archangelica Linn. in Mice Indian J Pharm Sci · PMID 21188050 · DOI |
Animal (mouse) study, India mouse |
Mice with seizures caused by electric shock or a drug (pentylenetetrazol) | Root essential oil of Angelica archangelica root Not covered Not stated in the abstract · vs Phenytoin and diazepam as standard comparison drugs |
The oil shortened the tonic convulsion phase in the electric-shock test, and delayed clonic convulsions and protected against death in the drug test. It also caused movement impairment (motor impairment) at the amounts that reduced seizures. Not given in the abstract. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Seizure duration, onset and survival; movement Limitations: Mice only. Motor impairment appeared at the same amounts that reduced seizures. Nothing here shows what the oil does in people, and the abstract gives no amounts. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Pet Poison Helpline 2026 Pet Poison Helpline: Essential oils petpoisonhelpline.com · Source |
Veterinary poison helpline guidance page n/a |
Pets | Essential oils in general n/a n/a n/a · vs n/a |
Essential oil poisoning can affect all species, but cats and birds are at greatest risk. Signs include drooling, vomiting, lethargy, loss of appetite, and irritation of skin, mouth and airways. Signs usually develop within 6 to 8 hours. Its list of common oils that can cause poisoning does not name angelica. Not applicable. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Safety advice Limitations: Not being on the list is not proof of safety; the list says it is of common oils. Funding and conflicts: Commercial poison helpline. Read: full-text |
| Poison Control 2026 Poison Control (National Capital Poison Center): Essential oils, poisonous when misused poison.org · Source |
Poison centre guidance page n/a |
General public | Essential oils in general n/a n/a n/a · vs n/a |
Misuse of essential oils can cause serious poisoning. Some oils can be poisonous if absorbed through skin or swallowed. Choking oil into the lungs can cause pneumonia. Children may be more susceptible. Diluting pure oils in a carrier oil is the best way to avoid a skin reaction. It can be hard to know the species, strength or contaminants in a bottle. Swallowing: call a poison centre (US 1-800-222-1222). Not applicable. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Safety advice Limitations: General page; it does not name angelica root oil. The page is undated. Funding and conflicts: Non-profit poison centre. Read: full-text |
| Raquet 2014 Application of the equivalency factor concept to the phototoxicity and -genotoxicity of furocoumarin mixtures Food Chem Toxicol · PMID 24680798 · DOI |
Laboratory cell study, Germany lab |
Hamster lung cells (V79) with UVA light | 13 furocoumarins and 9 mixtures, one based on the furocoumarin pattern of an Angelica archangelica extract extract pattern Lab test n/a · vs n/a |
Furocoumarins differed widely in how strongly they react with light, but mixtures behaved roughly additively. Damage from complex mixtures of up to nine furocoumarins could be predicted from the single compounds. Cell results only. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Light-triggered cell poisoning and DNA damage Limitations: Cell lines, not skin and not people. The Angelica mixture was a pattern copied from an extract, not the oil. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Sigurdsson 2013 A parallel, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to investigate the effect of SagaPro on nocturia in men Scand J Urol · PMID 23323790 · DOI |
Randomised double blind placebo controlled trial, Iceland |
69 Men aged 45 or older with at least two night-time bathroom trips |
SagaPro, a product from Angelica archangelica LEAF (not the root oil) leaf Not covered 8 weeks · vs Placebo |
Night-time voids and the other measures fell in the whole group, but there was no significant difference between the groups. In a later subgroup (men with a low night-time bladder capacity index), SagaPro did better than placebo. The authors say the trial did not show an overall benefit. No significant overall difference; subgroup result only. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Night-time voids and bladder capacity measures from voiding diaries Limitations: The subgroup result came after the main result was null and needs a new trial. Leaf product, not the root oil. Funding and conflicts: Industry-linked: the first author is listed at SagaMedica, which makes the product studied. Read: abstract |
| Wang 2025 Insecticidal Activity of Angelica archangelica Essential Oil and Transcriptomic Analysis of Sitophilus zeamais in Response to Oil Fumigation Biology (Basel) · PMID 41300395 · DOI |
Laboratory insect study, China insect |
Maize weevils (a stored-grain pest) | Angelica archangelica essential oil (plant part not stated in the abstract) not stated Fumigation, lab test 24 to 72 hours · vs n/a |
The oil had 35 components, including delta-3-carene 24.26%, limonene 19.81% and alpha-pinene 14.96%. Killing of weevils rose with amount; the median lethal amount was 164.38, 132.62 and 90.35 mg per litre of air at 24, 48 and 72 hours. LC50 values as stated. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Insect death (LC50) and gene activity Limitations: Insects only. Not a result for people or pets. Funding and conflicts: Conflict of interest: none declared. Read: abstract |
| n/a 2026 GBIF species match API: Angelica archangelica L. (checked 2026-10-25) n/a · Source |
Taxonomy database n/a |
n/a | n/a n/a Not covered n/a · vs n/a |
Angelica archangelica L., key 5371808, status ACCEPTED, family Apiaceae, exact match. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Accepted name Limitations: Name checking only. Read: full-text |
| n/a 2026 PubChem PUG REST: compound identifiers (checked 2026-10-25) n/a · Source |
Chemical database n/a |
n/a | n/a n/a Not covered n/a · vs n/a |
alpha-Pinene CID 6654; 3-Carene CID 26049; limonene CID 22311; bergapten CID 2355; 8-methoxypsoralen (xanthotoxin) CID 4114; isopsoralen (angelicin) CID 10658. Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Compound identifiers Limitations: Identifiers only. Read: full-text |
What we do not know yet
- What the evidence supports: all oil results are lab or animal, so every use is insufficient; leaf-extract bladder results are low or mixed and are not the oil.
- No human trial of angelica root oil was found for any use, and no side-effect rates exist.
- The furocoumarin content of the oil itself is not given in any source we read.
- No source on the oil for pregnancy, breastfeeding, babies, children or pets.
- No LiverTox, LactMed or NCCIH entry was read for angelica root oil.
- The 1975 to 1987 phototoxicity reports behind IFRA's summary were not read.
How new research is added
New studies are found by a saved PubMed search and are placed in a review queue. A person reads each one before it is added.
Lab markers
What changed in blood or saliva tests during trials. A changed number is not the same as feeling or being healthier, and we give no "normal ranges".
Other 5
Interleukin-6 (inflammation signal) in cells
Decrease in trials
A protein cells release when inflamed.
Not enough evidenceResults and what it means
Microbe growth in a dish
Decrease in trials
Whether bacteria or yeast keep growing when the oil is added.
Not enough evidenceResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Main outcome in the two antimicrobial studies.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Dish result; not a treatment.
Safety implication
Do not treat an infection with the oil.
Seizure duration and onset in mice
Decrease in trials
How long convulsions last and how fast they start.
Not enough evidenceResults and what it means
Daytime bathroom trips
Decrease in trials
How many times a person passes urine during the day.
Low certaintyResults and what it means
Night-time bathroom trips (nocturia)
Decrease in trials
How many times a person wakes up to pass urine.
Mixed findingsResults and what it means
Why it was measured
Outcome in two leaf-product trials.
Statistical vs. clinical meaning
Results differ between trials.
Safety implication
Not the root oil.
Safety
What studies and official sources say about side effects, medicines and who should check first. Each point shows what kind of evidence it comes from.
Main points to know 5
- Sunlight: angelica root oil can make skin react to ultraviolet light (phototoxicity).. IFRA, the fragrance industry safety body, restricts angelica root oil because of its phototoxic effects. In one test summarised by IFRA, neat oil on 13 volunteers followed by UVA light caused reactions in 5 of 13. In another, 1% and 5% under a patch on 30 men caused no reactions. Tests in guinea pigs and hairless mice also showed light-triggered irritation. The European Medicines Agency's herbal committee says angelica contains furocoumarins that react with UV light and recommends a UV warning. A 2024 review says the carrot family (Apiaceae) is among the main plant families that cause redness, fluid blisters, swelling and darker skin after sun. The oil's own furocoumarin content is not given in any source we read, so IFRA applies its limit when the level is unknown. Human test and regulatory 8 4 7
- Do not swallow bottled angelica root oil.. Poison Control says misuse of essential oils can cause serious poisoning, that some oils are poisonous if swallowed, and that choking oil into the lungs can cause pneumonia. It does not name angelica root oil, and we found no angelica swallowing case. If anyone, including a child or pet, may have swallowed any essential oil, call a poison centre (US 1-800-222-1222) or your emergency number. Regulatory 14
- Never put the undiluted oil on skin, and keep it off damaged skin.. Poison Control says pure oils are potent and that diluting them in a carrier oil is the best way to avoid a skin reaction, and not to use essential oils on damaged skin. For angelica root oil, the sun-reaction risk comes on top of ordinary irritation. No dilution figure for personal use is given here. Regulatory 14 8
- Pregnancy, babies, children and pets: no angelica-oil source says it is safe.. For herbal medicines with furocoumarins, the EMA committee says children and pregnant women should be excluded because of uncertainty. That paper is about herbal medicines, not the oil. Poison Control says children may be more susceptible to essential oils, and Pet Poison Helpline says cats and birds are at greatest risk. We found no angelica-oil-specific source for any of these groups. Regulatory 4 14 13
- Cancer-related findings concern the drug 8-MOP with UV light, not angelica oil.. The EMA paper says IARC classes 8-MOP plus UV radiation as carcinogenic to humans, and 5-MOP plus UV as probably carcinogenic (the 8-MOP finding is from drug treatment with UV light). No study links angelica root oil to cancer in people. The point is that furocoumarins and UV light are a combination that regulators take seriously. Regulatory 4
Side effects 4
| Effect | How often | Severity and recovery | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun-triggered skin reaction (phototoxic dermatitis): redness, itching, blisters, later darker skin The reaction needs both the oil on skin and ultraviolet light. | 5 of 13 volunteers reacted to neat oil plus UVA in one summarised test; none of 30 men reacted at 1% and 5% under a patch. | mild to severe (blisters) Skin usually heals, but darker marks can last. | Human test and regulatory 8 7 |
| Skin irritation or allergy to the oil Poison Control says skin rash is the most common reaction to essential oils. Limonene and linalool oxidise in air into allergens. Oils analysed contained limonene (13 to 20%). | No angelica-specific rate found. For oxidised limonene (a compound in the oil), 1.6% of 6,719 Danish patch-tested patients reacted. | mild to moderate Usually settles when contact stops; allergy tends to persist. | Case series 14 3 |
| Movement impairment at higher amounts (mice) Animal result. No human equivalent found. | Seen at the amounts that reduced seizures in mice. | unknown in people Not reported. | Animal research 12 |
| Cell toxicity at high amounts (cells in a dish) High amounts killed cells in a lab test. | Not a rate. | unknown in people Not applicable. | Lab 6 |
Liver
We found no case of liver injury linked to angelica root oil, and we did not read a LiverTox entry. Poison Control says swallowed pennyroyal oil is highly poisonous to the liver, which shows that essential oils differ widely. We do not advise swallowing any essential oil. 14
How often. No cases found.
Monitoring. Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, severe tiredness or pain in the upper right belly after any oil or supplement needs a doctor.
This is a safety connection. It is not evidence that Angelica Root Oil supports liver health.
Medicines and supplements 2
| With | Why it matters | Importance | Evidence | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Many prescription medicines medicines broken down by liver (cytochrome) enzymes | The EMA paper says furocoumarin derivatives are known to influence the activity of the cytochrome enzyme system. This was not tested for angelica root oil. | Unknown for the oil. | Regulatory statement (theoretical for the oil) Not enough evidence 4 | Tell your pharmacist about any essential oil you use, especially if you take medicines with a narrow safety margin. |
| Medicines or treatments that make skin sensitive to light light-sensitising medicines and light treatments | No source read tests angelica oil together with them. | Unknown. | None found Not enough evidence | Ask a doctor or pharmacist before combining angelica oil with anything that makes skin sensitive to sunlight. |
Who should check first 5
| Situation | Advice | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Skin that will be in sun or tanning-bed light soon after contact | Avoid. This is the best-documented risk. | Regulatory 8 4 |
| Pregnancy, breastfeeding, babies and children | Avoid. No angelica oil source says it is safe, and the EMA committee suggests excluding children and pregnant women for furocoumarin herbal products. | Regulatory 4 14 |
| Sensitive, broken or inflamed skin | Avoid. Poison Control says not to use essential oils on damaged skin. | Regulatory 14 |
| Epilepsy or seizure disorders | No source says angelica oil triggers or treats seizures in people. One mouse study found both anti-seizure and movement effects. Ask your doctor before using any essential oil. | Animal research 12 |
| Homes with cats, dogs or birds | Keep the oil away from pets. Cats and birds are at greatest risk from essential oils. Angelica is not on Pet Poison Helpline's list, which is not proof of safety. | Regulatory 13 |
Overdose, product quality and regulators
Summary. No poisoning series for angelica root oil was found. General essential-oil sources warn about poisoning if swallowed, lung damage if choked into the lungs and pet risk. The best-documented harm is the sun reaction.
Amounts. No safe amount is established, and this page gives none.
Onset and course. For pets, Pet Poison Helpline says signs usually develop within 6 to 8 hours. For the sun reaction, the review describes redness, fluid blisters, swelling and later darker skin.
Repeated use. The EMA paper says the effect of whole Angelica products on skin with UV has not been studied in people, and that genotoxic potential cannot be detected by pharmacovigilance or long use alone.
Animal data. IFRA summarises guinea pig and hairless mouse tests with light-triggered irritation. A mouse study found movement impairment at anti-seizure amounts.
Toxic parts. Furocoumarins are listed in Angelica archangelica preparations (EMA). The oil's own content is not stated in the sources read.
Not read. LiverTox, LactMed, NCCIH and any Tisserand Institute figure were not read for angelica root oil. The original 1975 to 1987 phototoxicity reports behind IFRA's summary were not read.
Essential oil products are not tightly regulated, so what is in the bottle can differ from the label. Angelica oils also vary a lot between batches.
Unknown species, strength and contaminants. Poison Control says it can be hard to know the species, concentration or contaminants in an essential oil bottle. 14
Composition varies. Alpha-pinene was 29.7%, 21.3% or 14.96% in three root-oil analyses, and delta-3-carene 14.2%, 16.5% or 24.26%. A fourth root oil had limonene 18.39%, vinylguaiacol 14.10% and citronellol acetate 15.91%. A review says composition strongly varies with outside factors. 1 5 17 2 10
Root oil, seed oil, leaf extract and root extract are different products. Seed oil was mostly beta-phellandrene, alpha-pinene, alpha-phellandrene and beta-myrcene. The bladder trials used a leaf extract. The EMA paper is about herbal preparations such as extracts. 9 11 4
Dong quai is a different plant. Dong quai is Angelica sinensis, a Chinese species. Angelica root oil is from Angelica archangelica. Check the Latin name and plant part on the label. 4
| Body | Action | Date |
|---|---|---|
| IFRA Standard: Angelica root oil (International (fragrance industry)) | Restriction because of phototoxicity: a 0.80% maximum in the finished product for most product categories, no restriction for a few categories. If the furocoumarin level is unknown, the restriction applies. This is an industry limit for makers of finished products, not a personal blending instruction. source | 2020-01-01 |
| EMA Committee on Herbal Medicinal Products (HMPC), final reflection paper EMEA/HMPC/317913/2006 (European Union) | Furocoumarins in Angelica archangelica preparations pose phototoxic and possible photo-cancer risks; proposes a UV warning and excluding children and pregnant women. Concerns herbal medicinal products, not essential oil. source | 2007-10-31 |
| Poison Control (National Capital Poison Center) (United States) | General essential-oil safety page: dilute pure oils, avoid damaged skin, risk if swallowed, aspiration can cause pneumonia, children may be more susceptible. Does not name angelica root oil. source | undated |
| Pet Poison Helpline (United States / Canada) | Cats and birds are at greatest risk from essential oils. Angelica is not on its list of common oils that can cause poisoning. source | undated |
When to get medical help
- If anyone, including a child or pet, may have swallowed any essential oil, call poison control (US: 1-800-222-1222; pets: Pet Poison Helpline 800-213-6680) or your emergency number.
- Coughing, choking or trouble breathing after swallowing or sniffing an oil is an emergency.
- Painful blisters, a spreading red rash, or swelling of the lips, tongue or face after the oil touched the skin needs urgent medical care.
- A seizure, collapse or severe drowsiness after any essential oil exposure needs emergency help.
- A rash or darker patches on skin that was in the sun after contact with the oil: stop using it, keep the area covered from sun, and see a doctor.
Stop using the product and contact a clinician or emergency service. In the US, Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.
General information only, not medical advice. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use, especially with medicines, in pregnancy or with a health condition. See the Natural Remedy Safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can angelica root oil burn my skin in the sun?
It can make skin react to ultraviolet light. IFRA restricts the oil for this reason, and in one test summarised by IFRA, neat oil plus UVA light caused reactions in 5 of 13 volunteers. The EMA herbal committee recommends a UV warning for angelica products. A review describes redness, blisters and later darker skin from this kind of reaction.
What does the IFRA 0.80% limit mean?
It is a limit for fragrance makers: at most 0.80% angelica root oil in most finished products, because of phototoxicity, and the limit applies if the furocoumarin level is unknown. It is not a personal blending instruction, and other sources differ.
Can I swallow angelica root oil?
We do not advise swallowing bottled oil. Poison Control says some essential oils are poisonous if swallowed and that choking oil into the lungs can cause pneumonia. It does not name angelica, and we found no angelica swallowing case. If anyone may have swallowed an essential oil, call poison control (US 1-800-222-1222) or your emergency number.
Is angelica root oil safe in pregnancy or when breastfeeding?
We do not know. We found no source on the oil. For furocoumarin herbal medicines, the EMA committee suggests excluding pregnant women because of uncertainty. Ask a doctor or midwife.
Is angelica root oil safe for babies and children?
Is angelica root oil safe for cats, dogs and birds?
We found no angelica-specific information. Pet Poison Helpline says cats and birds are at greatest risk from essential oils, and angelica is not on its list of common oils that cause poisoning, which is not proof of safety. Keep the oil away from pets and call a vet if a pet is exposed.
Does angelica root oil help with sleep, anxiety or pain?
We found no study of the oil for these. The evidence is insufficient. A mouse study found it reduced some seizures but also impaired movement, which does not show benefit in people.
Does angelica root oil kill germs?
Did a trial show angelica helps overactive bladder?
A 2025 pilot trial of 143 adults found fewer daytime bathroom trips with an angelica LEAF extract than placebo over 6 weeks. It is a different product from the root oil, and one pilot trial is low-certainty evidence. An earlier trial of a leaf product in 69 men found no overall difference and was industry-linked.
Is angelica root oil the same as dong quai oil?
Does angelica root oil cause cancer?
No study links the oil to cancer in people. The EMA paper says the drug 8-MOP with UV light is classed as carcinogenic to humans, and notes that furocoumarins in angelica preparations are a reason for caution. That is why regulators treat sun exposure as the key risk.
Can angelica oil interact with medicines?
The EMA paper says furocoumarin derivatives are known to influence liver (cytochrome) enzymes, but this has not been tested for the oil. Tell your pharmacist about any essential oil you use.
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Editorial transparency
- Written by
- AlternativeMed editorial team. Research compiled with AI assistance, then checked against PubMed records.
- Medical review
- None. This page has not been reviewed by a physician or pharmacist.
- First published
- 2026-10-25
- Last substantive update
- 2026-10-25
- How we research
- We read the abstracts of 14 PubMed papers, the IFRA standard and the EMA reflection paper in full, and the Poison Control and Pet Poison Helpline pages, and checked the plant name in GBIF and the compounds in PubChem. We could not read LiverTox, LactMed or NCCIH entries for angelica root oil.
- How we rate evidence
- See "How we rate evidence" in the Evidence tab.
- Independence
- No product is promoted on this page. No affiliate links are shown. Trials or assessments linked to industry are labelled.
Sources 19
Each source was opened and checked. Where we read only the abstract, it says so. The small numbers in the text point here.
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