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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Angelica Gigas Root is a non-standardized plant allergenic extract used primarily in the diagnosis and treatment of specific hypersensitivity reactions. It belongs to the class of plant-derived diagnostic and therapeutic biologicals.
Name
Angelica Gigas Root
Raw Name
ANGELICA GIGAS ROOT
Category
Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Drug Count
4
Variant Count
4
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Angelica Gigas Root
Angelica Gigas Root is a non-standardized plant allergenic extract used primarily in the diagnosis and treatment of specific hypersensitivity reactions. It belongs to the class of plant-derived diagnostic and therapeutic biologicals.
Detailed information about Angelica Gigas Root
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Angelica Gigas Root.
Angelica Gigas Root, derived from the perennial plant native to Korea, China, and Japan, is classified pharmacologically as a Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]. In the context of modern clinical immunology, this substance is utilized as a biological tool for the diagnosis and immunotherapy of patients who exhibit hypersensitivity to the proteins or volatile components of the Angelica gigas plant. As a member of the Umbelliferae (Apiaceae) family, it shares botanical characteristics with other common allergens like celery, carrot, and fennel.
In the clinical setting, Angelica Gigas Root extracts are categorized under the 'Non-Standardized' label by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This designation implies that while the extract is manufactured under strict Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), it does not have a federally mandated potency unit (such as Bioequivalent Allergy Units or BAU) that is measured against a national reference standard. Instead, its potency is typically expressed in terms of weight-to-volume (w/v) ratios or Protein Nitrogen Units (PNU). Healthcare providers utilize these extracts to perform skin prick testing (SPT) or intradermal testing to confirm the presence of IgE-mediated allergies. Furthermore, it may be used in subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) to induce desensitization in highly sensitive individuals.
Historically, the root of Angelica gigas (commonly known as 'Dang Gui' in Korean traditional medicine) has been used for various systemic ailments; however, its classification as an allergenic extract focuses strictly on its immunogenic properties. The FDA-regulated extract is a sterile liquid containing the soluble proteins and polysaccharides of the root, often preserved in a glycerinated or aqueous solution containing phenol as a preservative.
The mechanism of action for Angelica Gigas Root as an allergenic extract is rooted in the fundamental principles of type I hypersensitivity. When used for diagnostic purposes, the extract is introduced into the epidermis or dermis. In a sensitized individual, specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies are already bound to the high-affinity IgE receptors (FcεRI) on the surface of mast cells and basophils. When the allergens within the Angelica Gigas Root extract cross-link these IgE molecules, it triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling leading to degranulation. This release of inflammatory mediators—including histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins—results in the characteristic 'wheal and flare' reaction (a raised bump surrounded by redness) within 15 to 20 minutes.
When utilized for immunotherapy (allergy shots), the mechanism shifts toward the induction of immune tolerance. Repeated, escalating doses of the Angelica Gigas Root extract are administered subcutaneously. This process is believed to shift the immune response from a Th2-dominated profile (associated with IgE production and allergy) to a Th1-dominated or T-regulatory (Treg) response. This leads to the production of 'blocking antibodies' (IgG4), which compete with IgE for allergen binding, and reduces the recruitment of eosinophils and mast cells to the target tissues. Over time, this raises the patient's threshold for allergic symptoms upon natural exposure to the plant.
As a biological allergenic extract administered via the epicutaneous or subcutaneous route, the pharmacokinetic profile of Angelica Gigas Root differs significantly from traditional small-molecule drugs.
Angelica Gigas Root extracts are indicated for several specific clinical applications within the field of allergy and immunology:
Angelica Gigas Root allergenic extract is typically available in the following pharmaceutical forms:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider, typically an allergist or immunologist, can determine if Angelica Gigas Root extract is appropriate for your diagnostic or therapeutic needs. The selection of the specific form and concentration is based on your clinical history and sensitivity levels.
Dosage for Angelica Gigas Root extract is highly individualized and is never a 'one-size-fits-all' regimen. For diagnostic purposes, the dosage is expressed as the concentration of the extract used.
Angelica Gigas Root extract can be used in children, but extreme caution is required. There is no specific age-based dosage table; rather, the dosage is determined by the child's sensitivity level, similar to adults. However, children under the age of 5 may be less able to communicate the early symptoms of a systemic reaction (anaphylaxis), making them higher-risk candidates for immunotherapy. Pediatric dosing must be carefully monitored by a specialist in pediatric allergy.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for patients with renal impairment, as the protein load in allergenic extracts is minimal and does not place a significant burden on the kidneys. However, the patient's overall health should be stable before administration.
No dosage adjustments are necessary for hepatic impairment. The metabolism of allergenic proteins occurs via general proteolytic pathways rather than hepatic enzyme systems.
Elderly patients may have a diminished skin response to testing due to changes in skin elasticity and mast cell density. Furthermore, the risk of systemic reactions must be weighed against the presence of cardiovascular disease. If an elderly patient is taking beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors, immunotherapy may be contraindicated or require extreme caution.
Angelica Gigas Root extracts are strictly for professional use and are never self-administered by the patient at home.
In the context of immunotherapy, a missed dose can lead to a loss of tolerance.
An 'overdose' in the context of allergenic extracts refers to the administration of a dose that exceeds the patient's current tolerance level, potentially leading to a systemic allergic reaction or anaphylaxis.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not attempt to alter the schedule or dose yourself, as this increases the risk of life-threatening reactions.
Side effects are categorized as local or systemic. Local reactions are extremely common and are often expected during the diagnostic process.
> Warning: Stop taking Angelica Gigas Root and call your doctor immediately or seek emergency care if you experience any of the following symptoms of anaphylaxis:
There are no known 'toxic' long-term side effects of Angelica Gigas Root extract, as it is a biological protein. However, long-term immunotherapy can occasionally lead to 'serum sickness-like' reactions in very rare cases, characterized by joint pain, fever, and rash, though this is more common with heterologous sera than with plant extracts. The primary long-term 'effect' is the desired modification of the immune system.
Angelica Gigas Root allergenic extract, like all allergenic extracts, can cause severe, life-threatening systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Report any unusual symptoms, especially those occurring within the first hour of injection, to your healthcare provider immediately.
Angelica Gigas Root allergenic extract must only be used for the specific purpose of diagnosing or treating allergies to Angelica gigas. It is not a general-purpose supplement and should never be ingested or used in any manner other than directed by an immunology specialist. The most critical safety consideration is the potential for a rapid-onset systemic allergic reaction. Patients must be in a stable state of health before receiving an injection; for example, if you are currently suffering from an upper respiratory infection or an asthma flare-up, your injection should be postponed.
No FDA black box warnings for Angelica Gigas Root specifically exist as a standalone drug, but it falls under the General Class Warning for Allergenic Extracts. This warning emphasizes that these products can cause anaphylaxis, must be administered in a clinical setting equipped with emergency resuscitative equipment (including epinephrine), and require a mandatory 30-minute post-administration observation period.
In most cases, Angelica Gigas Root does not affect the ability to drive. However, if a patient experiences a systemic reaction or receives epinephrine, they should not drive until cleared by a physician. Some patients may feel mild fatigue after an injection and should use caution.
Alcohol should be avoided for several hours before and after receiving an allergenic extract injection. Alcohol causes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which can increase the rate of allergen absorption from the injection site and potentially increase the risk or severity of a systemic reaction.
Immunotherapy is typically a 3-to-5-year commitment. If treatment is stopped prematurely, the allergic symptoms are likely to return. There is no 'withdrawal syndrome' associated with stopping allergenic extracts, but the clinical benefits will gradually diminish over time.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially respiratory or heart problems, with your healthcare provider before starting Angelica Gigas Root.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially those for blood pressure, heart rhythm, or depression.
Patients allergic to Angelica Gigas Root may show cross-reactivity with other members of the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family. This includes:
If you have had a severe reaction to any of these foods, you must inform your allergist, as you may be at a higher risk of reacting to the Angelica Gigas Root extract.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history and current health status before prescribing or administering Angelica Gigas Root extract.
Angelica Gigas Root extract is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C. This means that animal reproduction studies have not been conducted, and it is not known whether the extract can cause fetal harm.
It is not known whether the components of Angelica Gigas Root extract are excreted in human milk. However, because the allergens are large proteins that are degraded into peptides, it is highly unlikely that they would be absorbed intact by the nursing infant. Immunotherapy is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, provided the mother is monitored for systemic reactions.
Renal impairment does not significantly alter the clearance of the small amounts of protein found in allergenic extracts. However, patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) may have altered immune function and should be treated with caution.
There are no specific precautions or dose adjustments required for patients with liver disease, as the liver is not the primary site of allergen degradation.
> Important: Special populations, particularly pregnant women and the elderly, require a highly individualized medical assessment before proceeding with allergenic extract therapy.
Angelica Gigas Root extract acts as a source of exogenous allergens. Its molecular mechanism involves the cross-linking of allergen-specific IgE antibodies bound to the FcεRI receptors on mast cells and basophils. This cross-linking triggers the release of pre-formed mediators (histamine, tryptase) and the de novo synthesis of lipid mediators (leukotrienes, prostaglandins). In immunotherapy, it induces 'immune deviation' by promoting the expansion of T-regulatory cells (CD4+CD25+Foxp3+) and the production of Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β), which suppress the allergic Th2 response.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | Low (Subcutaneous), Negligible (Epicutaneous) |
| Protein Binding | Primarily to IgE and IgG4 antibodies |
| Half-life | Proteins degraded within hours; Immunologic effect lasts months |
| Tmax | 15-30 minutes for local reaction |
| Metabolism | Local and systemic proteolytic degradation |
| Excretion | Renal (as small peptides/amino acids) |
Angelica Gigas Root belongs to the class of Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extracts. It is grouped with other Umbelliferae extracts and is distinct from 'Standardized Extracts' (like Grass or Dust Mite) which have federally defined potency units.
Medications containing this ingredient
Common questions about Angelica Gigas Root
In clinical medicine, Angelica Gigas Root extract is primarily used as a diagnostic tool to identify patients who are allergic to this specific plant. It is also used in allergen immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots, to help desensitize patients who suffer from severe allergic rhinitis or asthma triggered by the plant. By exposing the immune system to gradually increasing amounts of the extract, doctors can help the body build a tolerance. This treatment is typically reserved for patients who do not find relief from standard allergy medications or environmental avoidance. It is important to note that this clinical extract is different from the herbal supplements sold in health stores.
The most common side effects are localized to the site where the extract was administered. During a skin test, you can expect a small, itchy bump called a wheal, which looks like a mosquito bite and usually disappears within an hour. If you are receiving immunotherapy injections, you may experience redness, swelling, and itching at the injection site on your arm. These local reactions are generally mild and can be managed with cold compresses or over-the-counter antihistamines. However, if the swelling is larger than the palm of your hand, you should inform your doctor before your next dose. Systemic side effects like hives or sneezing are less common but require close monitoring.
It is strongly recommended that you avoid alcohol consumption on the days you receive an Angelica Gigas Root injection or undergo skin testing. Alcohol causes your blood vessels to dilate, which can speed up the absorption of the allergen into your bloodstream. This increased absorption rate significantly raises the risk of a systemic allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. Furthermore, alcohol can make it more difficult for you to recognize the early symptoms of a reaction, such as flushing or dizziness. To ensure your safety, wait at least 24 hours after your injection before consuming alcohol. Always follow the specific safety protocols provided by your allergist.
Angelica Gigas Root extract is generally not started as a new treatment during pregnancy. The main concern is not that the extract itself causes birth defects, but that a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) in the mother could be dangerous for the baby. Anaphylaxis can cause a drop in blood pressure and a lack of oxygen flow to the placenta, which poses a serious risk to the fetus. If you are already on a stable maintenance dose of allergy shots and become pregnant, your doctor may decide to continue the treatment at the same dose. However, they will likely not increase the dose until after you have given birth. Always inform your allergist immediately if you become pregnant.
The timeframe for Angelica Gigas Root to work depends on whether it is being used for diagnosis or treatment. For diagnostic skin testing, the results are almost immediate, usually appearing within 15 to 20 minutes of application. For immunotherapy treatment, the process is much slower and requires patience. Most patients begin to notice a reduction in their allergy symptoms toward the end of the 'build-up phase,' which typically takes 3 to 6 months. Significant and long-lasting improvement usually requires 12 months of consistent treatment. A full course of immunotherapy generally lasts between 3 and 5 years to provide permanent or long-term relief from allergies.
Yes, you can stop receiving Angelica Gigas Root injections at any time without experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms. Unlike some medications that affect the nervous system, allergenic extracts do not cause dependency. However, if you stop the treatment before completing the recommended 3-to-5-year course, your allergy symptoms are very likely to return. The 'immune tolerance' built up during the treatment may fade if the maintenance phase is not completed. If you need to stop treatment due to a move or a change in health, discuss a plan with your allergist. They can advise you on how much protection you have likely gained up to that point.
If you miss a scheduled immunotherapy injection of Angelica Gigas Root, you should contact your allergist's office as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not simply wait for your next regular appointment. The safety of the next dose depends on the length of the gap since your last injection. If only a few days have passed, your doctor may give you the usual dose. However, if several weeks have passed, your immune system's tolerance may have decreased, and your doctor will likely need to reduce the dose to prevent a reaction. Never attempt to 'double up' on a dose to make up for a missed one, as this is extremely dangerous.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that Angelica Gigas Root allergenic extract causes weight gain. The extract consists of proteins and polysaccharides administered in very small quantities, and it does not affect the metabolic or endocrine systems that regulate body weight. Unlike certain medications like corticosteroids or some antidepressants, allergenic extracts do not increase appetite or cause water retention. If you notice significant changes in your weight while undergoing allergy treatment, it is likely due to other factors such as lifestyle changes, other medications, or an underlying health condition. You should discuss any unexpected weight changes with your primary care physician.
Angelica Gigas Root can be used alongside many common medications, but there are critical exceptions. You must inform your doctor if you are taking beta-blockers, which are often prescribed for high blood pressure or heart conditions, as they can make allergic reactions much harder to treat. ACE inhibitors and certain antidepressants can also interact with how your body handles a reaction or the emergency medication used to treat it. While antihistamines are often used to manage local itching from the shots, they must be stopped several days before any skin testing to ensure the results are accurate. Always provide your allergist with a complete and updated list of all your medications.
The concept of 'generic' is slightly different for allergenic extracts than for standard pills. Angelica Gigas Root is a biological product, and various manufacturers may produce their own versions of the extract. These are generally considered interchangeable if they are prepared using the same weight-to-volume (w/v) ratio, but allergists often prefer to stick with a single manufacturer for a patient's entire course of treatment to ensure consistency in potency. Because these are non-standardized extracts, there can be slight variations between batches. Your insurance company may treat different brands as 'preferred' or 'non-preferred,' but they all serve the same clinical purpose under the FDA classification.