Botanical Overview
Artemisia absinthium, commonly known as Wormwood, is a member of the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, and has been introduced to North America. The parts commonly used medicinally are the leaves and flowering tops. Common names include Wormwood, Absinthium, and Common wormwood.
Energetics
- Temperature: warming
- Moisture: drying
- Tastes: bitter
- Directionality: descending
- Tonicity: relaxing
- Qi/Blood/Fluid: qi
Primary Actions
- Bitter
- Antimicrobial
- Anthelmintic
- Digestive stimulant
- Nervine
Indications
Western
- Digestive complaints
- Loss of appetite
- Bloating
- Intestinal worms
- Indigestion
- Dyspepsia
- Nervousness
Syndromes
- Digestive insufficiency
- Parasitic infections
- Nervous agitation
TCM
No widely recognized uses recorded.
Ayurveda
No widely recognized uses recorded.
Unani
- Loss of appetite
- Flatulence
- Intestinal worms
Syndromes
- Ma’da su’ (digestive weakness)
Constituents & Mechanisms
Contains sesquiterpene lactones, essential oils including thujone and absinthin, flavonoids, and bitter principles that stimulate digestive secretions and exhibit antimicrobial and anthelmintic actions.
Dosage & Preparations
- Tincture 1:5 40% alcohol, 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
- Infusion 1-2 g per cup, 1-2 times daily
- Powder 0.5-1 g 1-2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Use with caution due to possible neurotoxicity from thujone, which may cause seizures. Contraindicated in pregnancy and epilepsy. Avoid prolonged use. Potential interactions with sedatives through additive effects.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable sources found for planetary or elemental rulers.
Selected References
- Assessment report on Artemisia absinthium L., herba – EMA (2015)
- Artemisia absinthium (Wormwood) – Plants For A Future
- Wormwood – WebMD
- American Herbal Pharmacopoeia-Artemisia absinthium Monograph – Richard Upton (2010)