Wormwood is perhaps best known because of the use of its oil to prepare certain alcoholic beverages, most notably vermouth and absinthe. Absinthe, popular in the 19th century in Europe, caused several cases of brain damage and even death and was banned in most places in the early 20th century. Wormwood oil continues to be used as a flavoring agent for foods, although in much smaller amounts than were found in absinthe.
As a traditional medicine, wormwood was used by herbalists as a bitter to improve digestion, to fight worm infestations (as its name suggests), and to stimulate menstruation. It was also regarded as a useful remedy for liver and gallbladder problems. Recent work suggests it may be a powerful anticancer agent also. Artemisinin has been used for about 30 years in Vietnam and China for cancer treatment. The experience with artemisinin for this purpose is increasing as are the studies of this application.
Active constituents: The aromatic oil of wormwood contains the toxins thujone and isothujone. Very little of this oil is present in ordinary wormwood teas or tinctures. Also existent in the plant are strong bitter agents known as absinthin and anabsinthin. These stimulate digestive and gallbladder function. Artemisinin is effective against malaria and possibly breast and other types of cancer.
A wormwood tea can be made by adding 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (2.5 to 5 grams) of the herb to 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water, then steeping for ten to fifteen minutes. Many doctors recommend drinking three cups (750 ml) each day. Tincture, 10-20 drops in water, can be taken 10-15 minutes before each meal. Do not use for an extended period of time. Long-term, high dosage use can cause nausea, vomiting, insomnia, restlessness, vertigo, tremors, and seizures.
One study found there were no side effects when using less than 1ml tincture tid for as long as nine months to promote digestive function Naturopathic Med 1999;9]. Wormwood is not recommended during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
For a detailed program of several herbs in a parasite cleansing program, see the link between Parasites and Black Walnut.