SafePlants

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)

Wormwood, scientifically known as Artemisia absinthium, is a well-known plant with a rich history and diverse uses. It goes by several common names, reflecting its widespread presence and cultural significance.

Common Names

• Absinthe Wormwood
• Common Wormwood
• Green Ginger
• Grand Wormwood
• Absinthium
• Absinthe
• Wermuth
• Wermud
• Armoise
• Ajenjo
• Pelin otu
• Aci pelin
• Ak pelin
• Buyuk pelin
• Vilayati afsanteen
• Madderwort
• Old woman Wormwood

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Artemisia absinthium
• Family: Asteraceae (or Compositae, as it is sometimes known)
• Synonym: Information suggests Artemisia vulgaris var. coarctata is used synonymously with *common wormwood* but not necessarily with *Artemisia absinthium*

Considerations for Pets

• This plant can cause side effects like renal failure, convulsions, and involuntary evacuations if consumed.

Considerations for Children

• The bitter taste of wormwood has historically symbolized rancor.

Description and Habitat

• Artemisia absinthium is native to Eurasia and North Africa.
• It is often found in dry, open waste areas, overgrazed rangelands, along roads, and in pastures.
• Common wormwood is a tall perennial herb, growing up to 7 feet tall.
• It has an erect stem that often features a red-purplish tinge.
• The flowering stem is typically 2 to 2.5 feet in length.
• The stems are whitish in color and covered with fine silky hairs.

Ecological Role

• In some regions, such as Oregon, Artemisia absinthium is reported as an invasive species.

Traditional Uses and History

• Common Wormwood has a long history of use in medicine, dating back to ancient times.
• Its leaves are used to make medicines and beverages such as absinthe and vermouth.
• It has been traditionally used to combat parasites and worms.
• The "bitterness" of Wormwood is even mentioned in the Bible, often compared to "sin".

Quirky Facts

• The name "absinthium" is derived from the plant's use in the alcoholic beverage absinthe.
• The bitter taste of the common wormwood has long symbolized human rancor.
• It is also referred to as "grande wormwood," meaning large wormwood.

Related Species

• Artemisia vulgaris, commonly known as mugwort or common wormwood, is another species in the Artemisia genus.
• Artemisia afra is a common species in South Africa.

Further Resources

• WebMD provides patient medical information on Wormwood.