Angelica gigas Nakai: An overview on its chemical composition and pharmacological activity

Angelica gigas Nakai (A. gigas) is used as a traditional medicine in Korea and China. The root of A. gigas is most commonly prepared by decocting with water, and is used as a blood tonic, for the treatment of gynecological diseases, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and laxative. Thus, this paper presents a detailed review of the phytochemistry, botanical origin and pharmacological activities of A. gigas. Eleven monocoumarins, ten furocoumarins, eleven pyranocoumarins, nine volatile oils, nine flavonoids and six other constituents of A. gigas were summarized and discussed. The major chemical constituents of A. gigas, decursin and decursinol angelate, have also been detailed for their anti-inflammatory, anticancer, analgesic and sedative effects. This review aims to provide a reference for the future development and use of A. gigas.