Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is a perennial plant known for its valuable properties. Wormwood is also used in the production of absinthe, a strong alcoholic drink. However, due to its beneficial properties, this plant is most commonly used as a food supplement. Wormwood can come in various forms — tea, tinctures or capsules/tablets. Because of its distinctively bitter taste, many people avoid taking wormwood in liquid form. Capsules and tablets are a great option for those who want to avoid this strong characteristic of the plant.
Wormwood is best known for its anthelmintic, or antiparasitic, and antimicrobial properties. Traditionally, it has been used to support body cleansing and digestive system balance, especially in the context of parasite and intestinal worm control. For this reason, a wormwood course is sometimes recommended once or twice a year, but it is important to use it responsibly, following the manufacturer’s instructions and, when needed, a specialist’s advice.
Wormwood may also be useful for supporting digestive comfort. Its bitterness may help stimulate the secretion of gastric juices, supporting faster digestion and reducing discomfort after overeating. Therefore, wormwood may be relevant for people who experience digestive discomfort or heaviness after meals.
This plant also has anti-inflammatory properties and may help support the immune system. Wormwood has traditionally been used during the cold and viral season as a preventive supportive measure. When used responsibly, it can be a helpful addition for strengthening the body and supporting overall well-being. Its antioxidant properties also make wormwood a valuable plant in the fight against oxidative stress, which is associated with ageing processes and the risk of chronic diseases.
When choosing wormwood, it is very important to pay attention to quality and choose only reliable manufacturers. Check the composition of the supplement — whether capsules, tinctures or herbs. It is especially important not to exceed the recommended doses of wormwood. It is usually taken in courses — for 2–3 weeks, once or twice a year, as indicated by the manufacturer. Although this plant can be beneficial, it should definitely not be overused. When taken in higher doses than recommended, wormwood may be harmful to the body. The thujone it contains can be toxic, and excessive amounts of this chemical compound in the body may cause hallucinations, seizures or other neurological disorders. Therefore, before taking food supplements, we always recommend consulting your doctor.
Sources:
Langmead, L., & Rampton, D. S. (2001). Review article: herbal treatment in gastrointestinal and liver disease—benefits and dangers. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 15(9), 1239–1252.
Al-Shaibani, I. R. M., Phulan, M. S., Arijo, A. G., & Qureshi, T. A. (2008). Anthelmintic activity of Artemisia absinthiumagainst gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep in southern Punjab, Pakistan. Veterinary Parasitology, 151(2–4), 354–358.
Gade, S. V., & Begum, N. S. (2013). Immunomodulatory activities of Artemisia absinthium in Balb/C mice. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 149(1), 76–82.
Parejo, I., Viladomat, F., Bastida, J., Rosas-Romero, A., Flerlage, N., Burillo, J., & Codina, C. (2002). Comparison between the radical scavenging activity and antioxidant activity of six distilled and nondistilled Mediterranean herbs and aromatic plants. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 50(23), 6882–6890.
The information provided in this article is not the author’s personal opinion. These are general recommendations and are not intended for any specific individual. If you have health problems or take medication, you should consult your family doctor or pharmacist before starting any new supplements. Food supplements are not a substitute for food. A varied and balanced diet is important.
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