What it is
Angelica Gigas Extract is derived from the root of Angelica gigas, a plant used extensively in traditional Korean herbal practice. In cosmetics it functions as a skin-conditioning botanical and is associated with the pyranocoumarin constituents characteristic of the root. It is frequently featured in premium, heritage-positioned Korean skin-care formulations.
Safety & warnings
Used at low cosmetic levels it is generally well tolerated. Some Angelica species contain naturally photoactive coumarin-type compounds, so as with other coumarin-rich botanicals, sensitization is possible in predisposed individuals.
Origin & sourcing
Plant-derived, extracted from the root of Angelica gigas, native to Korea and parts of East Asia.
History
The root has a long-standing place in Korean traditional herbal medicine, which informs its use in modern heritage-style Korean cosmetics.
Questions everyone asks
What is Angelica gigas?
It is a Korean angelica plant whose root is used in traditional herbal practice and, in cosmetics, as a skin-conditioning botanical.
Is it the same as Dong Quai?
No. Dong Quai is Angelica sinensis, a different species; Angelica gigas is Korean angelica with a distinct root chemistry.