Artemisia is perhaps best known because of the use of its oil to prepare certain alcoholic beverages, most notably vermouth and absinthe; but more importantly, Artemisia was used by traditional herbalists as a "bitter" to improve digestion, fight worm infestations and stimulate menstruation. It was also regarded as a useful remedy for liver and gallbladder problems.
Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
History and Uses:
Artemisia
is native to Europe, North Africa, Western Asia and is now cultivated in the United States and elsewhere. The plant grows from two to four feet in height, and the part of this plant used medicinally is the above ground portion. An Egyptian papyrus dated 1,600 years before Christ describes this bitter herb in detail. Legend has it that this plant first sprang up in the impressions that marked the serpent's tail as he slithered his way out of the Garden of Eden. One of its common names, Wormwood, is derived from the Anglo Saxon wermode, meaning "mind preserver" but also references its medicinal property of expelling intestinal worms, for which it has been well known since ancient times. The species, Absinthium, is the Latin derivation from a Greek word meaning "without sweetness," and its generic name, Artemisia, is said to refer to Artemis, the Greek name for Diana, because she is credited with discovering the plant's virtues and bestowing them on mankind. Another tale relates that it is named for Artemisia, Queen of Caria, who gave her name to the plant after she had benefited from its treatments. Artemisia is one of the bitterest herbs known. The common name, Wormwood, describes its ability to act as a "wormer" to expel worm infestations in children and animals. It was even used in granaries to drive away weevils and insects and as a strewing herb to repel fleas. In traditional folk medicine, Artemisia preparations were used internally for gastric insufficiency, intestinal atonia, gastritis, stomachache, liver disorders, bloating, anemia, irregular menstruation, intermittent fever, loss of appetite and worm infestations. The primary chemical constituents of Artemisia include essential oil (absinthol, azulenes, camphene, cineol, isovaleric acid, pinene, thujone, sesquiterpene lactones, absinthin), bitters (absinthium), flavonoids (quercetin), and polyacetylenes. Absinthin is a narcotic analgesic that affects the medullary portion of the brain concerned with pain and anxiety and is said to induce a dreamy state. When used in small amounts, the constituent thujone works as a brain stimulant. Artemisia is perhaps best known because of the use of its essential oil to prepare certain alcoholic beverages, most notably vermouth and absinthe, popular in the late 1880s and early 1900s with artists and writers, such as Baudelaire, Degas, Gaugin, Edgar Allan Poe and Van Gogh. As an alcoholic beverage, Artemisia (as Absinthe) was said to cause several cases of brain damage and even death and was banned in most places in the early twentieth century, although part of the beverage's dangerous properties may have come from copper salts used to give the drink its color, as well as the alcohol in which the herb was dissolved. Today, the herb is primarily used as a "bitter" with the effect of stimulating and invigorating the whole of the digestive process. It is used for indigestion, especially when due to a deficient quantity or quality of gastric juice. It is also a powerful remedy in the treatment of worm infestations, especially roundworm and pinworm. Artemisia may also be used to help the body deal with fever and infections. Artemisia also helps increase secretions of the liver and gallbladder. Topical uses of this herb include its use as a liniment or compress for bruises, sore muscles, bites and pain. It is often used as an insect repellent and made into a spray to deter pests in organic gardening. A sachet of Artemisia can be used to keep moths away from clothes.
Recommended Dosage:
Take one (1) capsule, two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes for 2-3 weeks. Discontinue use for at least 2 weeks before resuming a 2-3 week usage period. Do not exceed recommended dosage.
Contraindications:
Artemisia
is a uterine stimulant and should not be used during pregnancy, as it can cause spontaneous abortion. Nursing mothers should not use Artemisia. Do not overuse; it may be habit forming with long-term use, and prolonged use may cause nausea, vertigo and insomnia. Do not exceed recommended dosage (many times the recommended amount). Artemisia should never be given to children. Do not use Absinthe if you are taking Phenobarbital.
Capsule Information:
Our Artemesia supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mg. each. |
