Wild Angelica (Angelica sylvestris) is a common herb in Poland. It grows in lower sections of the mountains. The plant can reach the height of 50 do 150 cm. Angelica is a biennial producing foliage the first year and stems and flowers the second. It dies back in the winter. Its root has medicinal properties and can be used to cure common cold, lung diseases, relieve rheumatism and stimulate kidneys.
Wild angelica (Angelica Sylvestris) can be confused with European Water Hemlock, which is poisonous. Do not collect angelica yourself under any circumstances!
The name of he plant reflects the legend that an angel revealed its special virtues to a monk during a time of plague. Angelica wasn't believed to cure the plague but protect against it; a piece of root was held in the mouth as an antiseptic.
Photo taken at Wyznianaski Pass at 855 meters. Bieszczady Mountains. July 10, 2007