Wormwood
Latin name : Artemisia absinthium
“Anyone who raises goats knows this is the herb that will keep their innards in good shape. The same actually applies to humans. It has a very bitter taste so you will want to nibble it sparingly. It is an excellent overall tonic and is beneficial to all sorts of digestive issues. It mostly shows up as a garden plant, with grayish leaves, growing more straggly each year. The flowering tops are gathered towards the end of the summer and keep quite well.”
— Dora
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is a perennial herb known for its bitter taste and distinct aromatic qualities. It has a rich history of use in both traditional medicine and alcoholic beverages, particularly absinthe.
In traditional herbal medicine, wormwood has been valued for its potential digestive benefits. It contains bitter compounds that can stimulate appetite and aid in digestion. However, its use should be approached with caution, as excessive consumption can be toxic.
Wormwood gained notoriety as a key ingredient in absinthe, a green, highly alcoholic spirit that was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Absinthe was associated with artists and bohemians but was eventually banned in many countries due to concerns about its purported hallucinogenic effects, largely attributed to wormwood's thujone content.
Today, wormwood is still used in herbal medicine, albeit sparingly due to its potential toxicity. It remains a fascinating botanical with a complex history and enduring cultural significance.
