Angelica glauca
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Angelica glauca | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Angelica |
| Species: | A. glauca |
| Binomial name | |
| Angelica glauca | |
| Synonyms[2] | |
|
Angelica nuristanica Kitam. | |
Angelica glauca, also known as Himalayan angelica, is a species of flowering plant in the family Apiaceae.[3] It is found from eastern Afghanistan through the western Himalayas to western Tibet.[2] It is noted for its medicinal and aromatic properties. A. glauca grows mainly in high-altitude areas and is cultivated for its value in traditional medicine, especially its roots and essential oil.[4] Collecting in the wild for its essential oil has driven this species to endangered status.[5]
A. glauca is a large, sturdy, tall herbaceous plant that can reach a height of 1–2 meters (3 ft 3 in – 6 ft 7 in).[6] The stems are hollow and the plant flowers in clusters, with small white, yellow, or purple flowers arranged in an umbel,[6] typical of the family Apiaceae. The roots are aromatic and succulent; and are commonly used medicinally for their anti-inflammatory, digestive, fever, headache, mental disorders, and respiratory properties.[4] The plant is often recognized by its large size, distinctive flowers, and strong aroma.
Distribution and habitat
A. glauca is native to the highland regions of the Himalayas, especially in countries such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. It typically grows at high altitudes, between 2,000 and 4,000 meters (6,600 and 13,100 ft) above sea level, where the temperatures are cool and the soil is moist and well-drained. The plant prefers cool climates and humus-rich soils. It typically grows in grasslands, forest edges, and along streams in its native areas, where there is little light or partial shade.[4]
Conservation
A. glauca is listed on the IUCN Red List as endangered due to overharvesting and loss of natural habitat.[7] The plant's growing popularity for medicinal uses, coupled with climate change and agricultural expansion, has led to the decline of natural populations. Therefore, sustainable harvesting methods and conservation efforts are needed to protect the plant. Some areas have begun planting and controlled cultivation to reduce pressure on natural populations and ensure the plant's future survival.[8]
