Wormwood

Wormwood Supplement Varieties

Did you know that wormwood gets its botanical name, Artemisia absinthium, from Artemis, the Greek goddess of hunting and childbirth? Indeed, wormwood is a perennial herb known for its bitter taste and aromatic leaves. It has a rich history dating back centuries. It has played a significant role across various cultures because of its distinctive flavour profile and diverse medicinal applications, which is why many wormwood supplement varieties are available.

The plant is native to Europe, Northern Africa, and Western Asia and is widely naturalized in Canada and the northern United States. Wormwood thrives in regions with well-drained, alkaline soils and plenty of sunlight. The plant itself is characterized by its silver-green, deeply lobed leaves and tall, erect stems adorned with tiny yellow flowers. 

Wormwood has a storied past, with its uses spanning culinary, medicinal, and even mystical realms. One of its most infamous historical roles was in the production of absinthe, alongside anise and fennel, a potent alcoholic beverage popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The inclusion of wormwood in absinthe was believed to be responsible for the drink's hallucinogenic effects, though this notion has since been largely debunked.

Beyond the world of spirits, wormwood has been a fixture in traditional medicine for its demonstrated digestive benefits. In fact, ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Egyptians, used it extensively to alleviate indigestion, bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues.

Medicinal Properties of Wormwood

Wormwood owes its distinct properties to a complex array of bioactive compounds. The most notable of which is thujone, a unique terpene that imparts the herb with its bitter taste. Other constituents include absinthin, an intensely bitter compound, and a variety of essential oils like camphor, cineole, and pinene. The synergistic action of these components is responsible for the herb's taste and medicinal effects.

Health Benefits of Wormwood Supplements

Digestive Aid – Wormwood stimulates digestive juices, promoting healthy digestion and alleviating issues such as indigestion, gas, and bloating.

Natural Antimicrobial & Antifungal – Compounds in wormwood exhibit potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it ideally suited to fighting against a wide range of infections including E. coli, and salmonella, as well as a range of fungal pathogens, perhaps most notably, Candida albicans.

Parasitic Infections – Wormwood is effective against a broad range of parasitic infections, perhaps most notably, intestinal worms, including pinworms, roundworms, and tapeworms.

Promotes Healthy Digestive Function – Wormwood has long been used to alleviate gastrointestinal issues by reducing inflammation and combating harmful microorganisms in the digestive tract. Additionally, wormwood stimulates the production of digestive juices, aiding digestion and easing symptoms associated with Crohn’s disease, SIBO, and others. 

Reducing Inflammation – Studies have demonstrated that wormwood possesses anti-inflammatory effects, making it attractive for the treatment of conditions characterized by inflammation.  

Repellent (Insects and Other Pests) – The pungent aroma of wormwood has historically been used to repel pests. It can be planted in gardens as a safe and effective natural insect deterrent. Because of this, wormwood has often been recommended to prevent and treat malaria. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends wormwood as a first-line treatment for malaria. 

Wormwood Supplement Varieties

Wormwood comes in capsules and tablets, as well as liquid extracts, tinctures, and oils, providing flexibility in dosage and easy integration into beverages. Those who prefer a more traditional way to consume wormwood may choose to go with dried leaves that can be made into teas. For external applications, wormwood also comes in creams or ointments. 

The dosing of wormwood will vary depending on the specific preparation and the intended use. It's important to note that self-medication with wormwood should be approached with caution, and consulting with a qualified healthcare practitioner such as an herbalist or naturopathic doctor is recommended.

Considerations & Cautions

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, gastrointestinal discomfort, or headaches after consuming wormwood. Moreover, due to its thujone content, excessive or prolonged use may lead to neurotoxic effects, impacting the nervous system. Pregnant women and individuals with epilepsy or other neurological conditions should exercise caution, as wormwood may exacerbate these conditions. Additionally, those with liver disorders should avoid wormwood, as it can potentially worsen liver function.

Back to Top ↑