Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium L)

Parts used: dried leaves and flowering tops

Constituents: sesquiterpene lactones, volatile oil containing thujone, flavonal glycosides, phenolic acids, tannins

Pharmacopoeia Standard: the dried herb should contain no less than 2ml/kg of essential oil.

Actions: bitter digestive tonic, uterine stimulant, choleretic, anthelmintic, antiseptic

Indications: nematode infestation, anorexia, atonic dyspepsia

Applications: Wormwood stimulates digestive secretions, improving digestion and absorption. It helps ease flatulence and bloating and strengthens the digestive system after illness. The sesquiterpenes are strongly insecticidal and, as its name suggests, Wormwood is an effective treatment for intestinal worms.

Safety: Wormwood should be taken for no longer than 4 weeks. Contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding and in gastric or duodenal ulceration. Excessive doses cause vomiting and diarrhoea.

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Christine Haughton, MA MNIMH MCPP FRSPH

Wold Farm, West Heslerton, Malton, North Yorkshire YO17 8RY, UK

Last updated 27th November 2014     ©Purple Sage Botanicals