Organic Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)

Family:

Asteraceae

Common Names:

Absinthe, Green Ginger, Grand Wormwood, Old Woman

Origin:

Native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. It is now naturalized in North America and other temperate regions.

Parts Used:

Leaves, stems, flowers

Habitat:

Wormwood thrives in well-drained, dry soils and is commonly found in rocky or sandy areas, roadsides, and fields. It prefers full sun and grows well in USDA zones 4-9.

History and Folklore:

Wormwood has a long history of use in herbal medicine and as an ingredient in alcoholic beverages like absinthe and vermouth. In ancient times, it was used by the Egyptians and Greeks to treat intestinal worms and digestive disorders. Wormwood has also been associated with protection and was believed to ward off evil spirits. The plant's name is derived from its historical use as a remedy against intestinal worms.

Metaphysical Properties:

Wormwood is associated with protection, purification, and clarity. It is often used in rituals to cleanse spaces, dispel negative energy, and enhance psychic abilities. The plant is also associated with the moon and is believed to enhance dreams and visions.

Botany:

Wormwood is a perennial herb that can grow up to 2-4 feet tall. It has silvery-green, deeply lobed leaves covered in fine hairs, giving the plant a grayish appearance. The small, yellowish flowers bloom in late summer and are arranged in clusters. The entire plant has a strong, bitter aroma.

Growing and Harvesting:

Wormwood is typically grown from seeds or cuttings and prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. It is a hardy plant that requires little water once established. The aerial parts are harvested in the summer when the plant is in full bloom. The leaves and flowers can be used fresh or dried for various herbal preparations.

Constituents:

• Thujone: A compound that can be toxic in large amounts, responsible for the plant's psychoactive effects.
• Absintin: A bitter compound that stimulates digestion.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that support overall health and reduce inflammation.
• Volatile Oils: Including chamazulene, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Tannins: Provide astringent properties, helping to tighten tissues and reduce inflammation.

Energetics:

• Temperature: Cooling
• Taste: Bitter, Pungent

Medicinal Actions:

• Anthelmintic: Traditionally used to expel intestinal worms and parasites.
• Digestive Bitter: Stimulates appetite and improves digestion, particularly in cases of indigestion and bloating.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly in the digestive and musculoskeletal systems.
• Antimicrobial: Fights bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it useful for treating infections.
• Emmenagogue: Promotes menstrual flow and can help regulate menstruation.
• Nervine: Calms the nervous system and helps alleviate stress and anxiety.

System Affinities:

• Digestive System: Supports digestion, stimulates appetite, and helps treat digestive disorders like dyspepsia and indigestion.
• Nervous System: Calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety, and may help with insomnia.
• Reproductive System: Used to stimulate menstruation and treat menstrual irregularities.
• Immune System: Supports immune function and helps fight infections.

Uses:

• Tea: Wormwood tea is used to stimulate digestion, treat intestinal worms, and relieve indigestion. It should be consumed in small amounts due to its bitterness and thujone content.
• Tincture: Used for digestive issues, menstrual irregularities, and as an anthelmintic. The tincture is typically diluted before use.
• Essential Oil: Wormwood oil is used in aromatherapy for its calming effects and to alleviate pain when applied topically. Due to its potency, it should be used with caution.
• Capsules/Tablets: Available as a supplement for treating digestive issues, stimulating appetite, and expelling intestinal parasites.
• Topical Application: Wormwood can be infused in oils or added to salves for use in treating muscle pain, inflammation, and skin conditions.

Cautions:

• Thujone Content: Wormwood contains thujone, a compound that can be toxic in large amounts. It should be used with caution and not taken in excessive doses or for extended periods. High doses can cause seizures, vomiting, and other severe side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Wormwood is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to its potential to stimulate menstruation and its thujone content.
• Epilepsy: Individuals with epilepsy or seizure disorders should avoid using wormwood due to its thujone content, which can trigger seizures.
• Medication Interactions: Wormwood may interact with medications, particularly those that affect the central nervous system. Consult a healthcare provider before using wormwood if you are taking any medications.

Scientific Studies:

1. A study published in Phytomedicine confirmed the anthelmintic properties of wormwood, supporting its traditional use in expelling intestinal worms and parasites.
2. Research in Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlighted wormwood’s antimicrobial effects, particularly against bacteria and fungi, validating its use in treating infections.
3. A study in Phytotherapy Research explored the potential anti-inflammatory effects of wormwood, showing its usefulness in treating digestive and musculoskeletal inflammation.