Artemisia absinthe - wormwood

Artemisia Absinthium, generally known as wormwood, belongs to the Korbblütler family (Asteraceae). This plant is known for its bitter leaves and its historical use in the production of absinthe and as a medicinal herb.

Botanical characteristics

Artemisia Absinthium is a herbaceous plant that can reach a height of 30 to 120 centimeters. The leaves are narrow, pinnacled and of silver -green color. The flowers of the desert are tiny yellow-green structures arranged in dense flower heads. The plant has a strong, bitter taste and a characteristic aromatic fragrance.

Pharmacological properties

The wormwood is known for its pharmacological properties and was used in folk medicine for a variety of symptoms. The plant contains a number of bioactive compounds, including bitter substances, essential oils and tannins. These connections give the wormwood its bitter taste properties and its potentially medical effects. In medicine, the wormwood history was used to treat digestive complaints, worm infestation and menstrual problems. Due to his bitter substances, he can also act as a digestive conveyor and appetite.

Historical meaning

Artemisia Absinthium has a long history in the production of Absinth, a famous, alcoholic drink that was widespread in Europe in the 19th century. Absinth is made out of wormwood, anise and fennel and has a controversial past due to its high alcohol content and salary on Thujon, a psychoactive part of the desert. In some countries, Absinth was banned due to its supposedly hallucinogenic effects.

Modern use

Today Artemisia Absinthium is still used in herbal medicine, although its use is regulated due to the potential side effects and the Thujon content. In some countries, wormwood is used as an ingredient in non -alcoholic bitter drinks and aperitifs to stimulate appetite and to promote digestion.