Wormwood – A Bitter Tonic 02-28-2011
Grown
in Siberia, Europe, and the US, wormwood (Artemisia
absinthium) has been used for centuries to treat parasites internally and
as a hemostatic externally. Wormwood also had a plethora of disparate uses
including treatment of sore eyes, the common cold, as a hair tonic, and to
bring down the swelling of wounds. It is considered one of the most bitter
herbs and is used for a bitter tonic, especially to eliminate intestinal worms.
Wormwood
is also known to counteract fevers, regulate the liver, treat anemia, and
reduce arthritis symptoms. The herb has been used for a variety of female
conditions including promoting menstruation, stimulating uterine circulation,
and relieving menstrual cramps. Wormwood oil can act as a local anesthetic and
makes a good liniment to relieve pain from inflammation such as bruises,
sprains, back pain, and rheumatism. A compress of wormwood tea can also be used
for swelling due to inflammation. An uncontrolled trial found that a wormwood
supplement containing leaves and stems of the herb might be beneficial in
treating IgA nephropathy, which can lead to kidney failure (See HC 111046-419).
Wormwood
has also been used as a nervine tonic and is one of the main ingredients for
the alcoholic drink absinthe (See HC News, February 13, 2009).
Because it is such a powerful herb, it should be used
sparingly, only for short periods of time, and not used during pregnancy or
given to children.
Lori Glenn,
Managing Editor |