Wormwood

Common Name:

Wormwood

Botanical Name:

Artemisia absinthium

Short Description:

Wormwood is a powerfully bitter herb traditionally used to stimulate digestion, expel parasites, and support liver function. It’s also a key ingredient in traditional bitters and was historically used in absinthe.

Parts Used:

Aerial parts (primarily leaves and flowering tops, dried)

Actions:

Bitter tonic, antiparasitic, choleretic, antimicrobial, nervine (mild and paradoxical)

Energetics:

Warming, drying, very bitter

Body Systems:

Digestive, hepatic, immune, nervous

Spiritual/Energetic Uses:

Protective and boundary-enforcing. Wormwood clears deep energetic stagnation and repels unwanted spiritual or emotional influences. It’s often used in cleansing rituals and protection work.

Planetary/Dosha Associations:

Planetary: Mars and Saturn
Dosha: Balances Kapha; may aggravate Pitta and Vata in excess

Safety Notes:

Use in very small doses and short-term only. Not for use in pregnancy or with ulcers. Contains thujone, a compound that can be neurotoxic in high doses—avoid prolonged or excessive use. Best used in tincture or bitters blends under professional guidance.