Botanical Overview
Latin name: Artemisia herba-alba
Family: Asteraceae
Parts used: Aerial parts (leaves and stems)
Common names: Desert Wormwood, White Wormwood
Energetics
Artemisia herba-alba is considered warming and drying in nature, with bitter and pungent tastes. It has ascending and descending directionality and a relaxing tonicity affecting the qi level in the body.
Primary Actions
- Antimicrobial
- Antispasmodic
- Digestive stimulant
- Febrifuge
- Anthelmintic
Indications
Western
- Indigestion
- Flatulence
- Colic
- Intestinal parasites
- Fever
- Cough
- Bronchitis
Syndromes
- Gastrointestinal spasms
- Parasitic infections
- Respiratory infections
TCM
No specific traditional Chinese medicine uses documented.
Ayurveda
No specific Ayurvedic uses documented.
Unani
- Fever
- Digestive disturbances
- Intestinal worms
Syndromes
- Heat-related conditions
- Helminthiasis
Constituents & Mechanisms
Contains sesquiterpene lactones, essential oils, flavonoids, and coumarins which contribute to its antimicrobial, antispasmodic and digestive stimulating properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-3 g in 150 ml water taken 2-3 times daily
- Essential oil: Used externally in diluted form for antispasmodic effects
- Powdered aerial parts: Traditionally consumed as tea
Safety & Contraindications
Generally well tolerated in therapeutic doses. Use with caution during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data and possible uterine stimulant activity. Avoid high doses to prevent gastrointestinal irritation.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable sources found to assign planetary or elemental rulers.
Selected References
- Artemisia herba-alba Monograph, Phytotherapy Database (2021)
- Medicinal Plants of the World, Schultz W. (2015)
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 1, World Health Organization (1999)
- The Complete German Commission E Monographs, Blumenthal M. (1998)
- Handbook of Herbs and Spices, Lawrence B.M. (2006)