Artemisia absinthium
Jekkapedia
Artemisia absinthium, Wormwood
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Artemisia
Tiny yellow flowers. Silver/green, divided, aromatic foliage. The leaves and flowers are very bitter. Culinary; very bitter flavoured leaves, good with cheese. Used in many drinks such as Absinthe and Vermouth.
Characteristics:
Wormwood can be seen at the herb farm in Jekka’s Herbetum and is available to buy as both herb plants and online as herb seeds.
Details
Growing
• Indoor Sowing: In early spring in prepared plug trays or pots, cover seeds with perlite. Bottom heat, 18°C, aids germination.
• Outdoor Sowing: In early summer when all threat of frost has passed, into a prepared, sunny site. Thin seedlings to 1m apart.
Medicinal
As the name might suggest, wormwood has historically been used by herbalists to assist in the expulsion of parasitic worms from the bowels.
Powerful aromatic and bitter qualities have also shaped wormwood’s traditional use as a widely-used digestive tonic to help stimulate the appetite and enhance production and release of bile and other digestive juices to ensure improved assimilation of food. This is reflected in its use as a key ingredient in many popular bitter aperitif drinks and cordials.
Herbalists often see it as being of value for those with nervous exhaustion, joint pain and in regulating the menstrual cycle.
Caution: Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Small doses are usually preferable.
Please note: The information provided here is for educational interest only and is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat significant health problems. Any serious or long-term health concerns should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
See our blog for more information about the National Institute of Medical Herbalists
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