Apiaceae
Ashitaba
Angelica keiskei
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Japan (Izu islands)
Also known as: Tomorrow's Leaf, Longevity Herb, Japanese Angelica
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
LeafStem
Therapeutic Uses
Age-related cognitive decline (NGF stimulation — emerging research), type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular protection, longevity. Traditional Okinawan longevity herb. Chalcones have potent AMPK activation.
Herbal Actions
Antioxidant, anti-aging, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, nerve growth factor (NGF) stimulator, adaptogen
Active Constituents
Chalcones (xanthoangelol, 4-hydroxyderricin — primary actives), coumarins, furocoumarins, flavonoids, chlorophyll, vitamin B12
Preparation Methods
☕ Herbal Tea💊 Capsule
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 2–3 fresh leaves per 250ml, steep 5 min — yellow-green tea |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 40% ethanol), 2x daily |
| Notes | Fresh or freeze-dried leaf preserves chalcone content best. Standard extract: 200–400mg daily. Research dose for neurological effects: 100mg xanthoangelol daily. Growing body of evidence but still emerging. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Furanocoumarins — photosensitivity. Caution with CYP enzymes. Avoid in pregnancy.
Side Effects: Photosensitivity with topical contact. Mild GI effects. Generally well tolerated.