Absinthe / Mugwort

Absinthe is also known by the names Green Ginger, Wormwood, Southernwood, Old Woman, Absinthe, and Absinthium. Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, this herb is now cultivated in the United States and elsewhere. The plant grows from 2-4 feet in height. The part of this plant used medicinally is the above ground portion. Absinthe's name is obviously derived from its medicinal property of expelling intestinal worms for which it has been well known since ancient times. An Egyptian papyrus dated 1,600 years before Christ describes this bitter herb in detail. Legend has it that this plant first sprang up on the impressions that marked the serpent's tail as he slithered his way out of the Garden of Eden. It is one of the bitterest herbs known, even today. Its common name comes from its ability to act as a wormer in children and animals. It was used in granaries to drive away weevils and insects, and was used as a strewing herb to drive away fleas. In traditional folk medicine, Absinthe preparations were used internally for gastric insufficiency, intestinal atonia, gastritis, stomach ache, liver disorders, bloating, anemia, irregular menstruation, intermittent fever, loss of appetite, and worm infestations. When used in small amounts, the constituent thujone works as a brain stimulant. Absinthe is perhaps best known because of the use of its oil to prepare certain alcoholic beverages, most notably vermouth and absinthe, popular in the late 1880's and early 1900's.

Mugwort, a close relative of Absinthe, is a hardy plant, usually growing to about 3 ft. in height, with stout stems somewhat purple in color. In North America, Mugwort is considered to be a weed, as it is very hard to eradicate. In Europe and Asia, Mugwort's reputation is much better. Mugwort has a long history of medicinal use in both cultures. During the European Middle Ages, Mugwort was known as Cingulum Sancti Johannis . It was believed that John the Baptist wore a girdle made of Mugwort in the wilderness. Belief grew that Mugwort could prevent misfortune from befalling travelers. Mugwort is sometimes called St. John's Plant because of the tradition of gathering Mugwort on St. John's Eve to protect against disease and other tragedies. Mugwort was also believed to enhance dreams if placed under one's pillow. In the Asian tradition, Mugwort was used in concoctions to treat rheumatism. Later in European history, Mugwort was used as a nervine to ease the symptoms of epilepsy and palsy. It has also been used as a uterine stimulant and treatment for amenorrhea, especially in conjunction with Cramp Bark. Mugwort has also been used in the treatment of constipation, depression, anxiety, and vomiting. Recently, research has focused on the antibacterial and antifungal properties of Mugwort. In addition to its healing properties, Mugwort is also a good natural source of Vitamin C, beta carotene, fiber, calcium, zinc, and Quercetin.