What is wormwood?
Wormwood is a perennial plant, which belongs to the Artemisia genius. Wormwood herb is native to Eurasia and Northern Africa and is cultivated in Siberia and USA. Wormwood is very bitter and is used in medicine, perfumes, cosmetics and is added to such alcoholic drinks as absinthe, vermouth. Due to the component, which contains wormwood oil- thujone, it excites the nervous system. It is also said that wormwood is used as an insecticide.
What are wormwood benefits?
The whole plant including its leaves and tops is used in medicine. It is gathered in July and August and then dried. The juice from the leaves is also used. So let’s see how wormwood acts. It is effective in treating:
- intestinal spasms;
- loss of appetite;
- digestive disorders;
- stomach upset;
- gall bladder disease;
- fever;
- worm infestations;
- liver problems;
- insect bites;
- spasms;
- wounds;
- low sexual desire;
- flatulence;
- sickness.
What are wormwood side effects?
Wormwood may be unsafe when taken in large amounts for a long time. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should take it only in safe food amounts internally and avoid external usage of wormwood herb. Possible side effects: allergy, seizure disorders, kidney problems, nightmares, vomiting, stomach cramps, restlessness and even death. So it’s better to take wormwood, after having consulted with your doctor.