The medicinal properties and contraindications of wormwood are known in many parts of the world. This is one of the oldest and most bitter medicinal plants in the world. The healing power of wormwood is hidden precisely in its bitterness. Decoctions and infusions from it are the first choice drugs for digestive disorders and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). However, with an overdose and uncontrolled use, side effects are often observed - from nausea to loss of consciousness. Wormwood is a toxic plant. It is recommended to use it only after consulting a doctor.
Features of a medicinal plant
People often confuse wormwood with common wormwood, but there is no danger in this. Both of these types are similar in their chemical composition and healing effects. But still, wormwood is used more often and is harvested for the pharmaceutical industry.
Wormwood citvar. 
Common wormwood, or Chernobyl herb. 
Lemon wormwood (high), or abrotan.
Types of wormwood
The genus Artemisia includes about 400 species. There are over 150 species in Russia. Many of them are medicinal plants. What types are best known and most often used in folk medicine?
- Artemisia citvarens. It is also called the tsitvar, Turkestan seed. This is a low perennial shrub. Loves dry climates, common in Central Asia. Here the plant is collected from the wild and grown as a pharmaceutical raw material. Refers to medicinal, but highly poisonous plants. A valuable bactericidal essential oil is obtained from it. It is also an effective remedy for worms (the seeds of the plant are especially helpful). It is used externally as an anti-inflammatory agent for skin diseases, rheumatism, neuralgia, gout, and heals wounds and burns well.
- Common wormwood, or Chernobyl herb. It can reach a height of 150 cm. It is classified as a weed. It can often be seen in vacant lots, near roadsides, and in gardens. Only the apical part of the shoots with flowers is collected. In scientific medicine, the herb is not as popular as wormwood. However, among the people this species is valued no less, and, in general, does not differ much. Chernobyl has a milder taste and effect; it is taken orally as a choleretic, astringent, to normalize appetite and digestion, for nervous disorders and epilepsy. It is also used as a seasoning, more often for fatty meat dishes from goose or duck. A spicy mixture is prepared from this type of herb, which includes basil, rosemary and thyme.
- Lemon wormwood (high), or abrotan. People often call it medicinal wormwood, or God's tree, as well as dill tree. The plant has been known since ancient times. They drank the grass for fever and snake bites. Ancient medical treatises describe the healing properties of the tree of God. In addition, the herb was used in cooking as a spice, since it has the least bitterness. This type of plant contains a lot of essential oil, which is used in perfumery and cosmetology, the alcoholic beverage and confectionery industries.
In ancient times, the tree of God was considered a sacred plant. This type of wormwood was used in magic. According to legend, the herb drives out evil spirits. Often wormwood branches were cut and hung at the entrance to the house. Among the Slavic peoples, wormwood is a strong amulet that protects against the evil eye. Ancient magical rituals are a thing of the past, and today the tree of God is a beautiful ornamental bush that decorates household plots. You can experiment and shape the crown of the bush; it makes a good green hedge.
Habitat of wormwood
Bitter (white) wormwood is found everywhere - it likes to grow along roads, in landfills, wastelands, weedy meadows, and forest edges. It is also a frequent “guest” near homes, in the garden and vegetable garden, it forms thickets and is considered a tenacious and persistent weed. This species is distributed throughout Europe, growing in Western Asia and North Africa. In Russia, it can be found in Siberia and the northern regions. The grass is grown industrially in Russia, the USA, southern European countries, and North Africa. Essential oil is made from dry raw materials.
Botanical description
Wormwood. Botanical illustration from the book “Köhler’s Medizinal-Pflanzen”, 1887.
What does wormwood look like? It has two distinctive features - the silvery color of the leaves and a characteristic aroma. By these signs, wormwood is easy to distinguish in nature.
- Root. Rod-shaped, branched.
- Stems. Straight, branched at the top, erect shoots form at the base of the bush.
- Leaves . Pinnately dissected, alternate, petiolate. Both leaves and stems have silvery-white pubescence.
- Flowers . Tubular, yellow, collected in panicles, on which small baskets and leaves are located.
It can grow up to 2 m, looks like a subshrub. Tolerates drought and frost well.
Procurement of raw materials
- What to collect? The tops of flowering plants are collected, stems up to 25 cm long are cut, usually the rough parts of the plant are separated and not used. Although the entire above-ground part of the plant is considered useful. Wormwood root (its soft shoots) is also used. It is dug up in the fall and dried in the same way as the above-ground part.
- When to collect? Flowering panicles of wormwood are collected at the very beginning of flowering. Depending on the region - in June or July. The leaves are collected in May, while they are tender and not so bitter.
- How to dry? Raw materials can be laid out in a thin layer under canopies or plant shoots tied in bunches can be hung. The room should be well ventilated.
Raw materials are packaged in linen bags or wooden containers. The apical part of the plant and roots can be stored for 3 years, leaves - 2 years.
Healing effect
What are the healing properties of wormwood? What pharmacological action does it have?
- Secretory.
- Carminative.
- Anti-inflammatory.
- Antitumor.
- Antihelminthic.
- Diuretic.
- Appetizing.
- Antiseptic.
- Painkiller.
- Calming.
- Blood purifying.
- Anticonvulsant.
What are the most valuable substances in the chemical composition?
- Essential wormwood oil, which contains thujone, phellandrene, ketone, pinene and other substances.
- Bitterness (absinthine, artabsin).
- Tannins.
The grass also contains: resins, vitamins K, C, A, B6, starch, organic acids, flavonoids, phytoncides, proteins.
Indications
For what diseases will treatment with wormwood be effective?
The herb also helps against motion sickness and general exhaustion of the body; it is drunk for alcohol poisoning, eye inflammation, and hypertension. Relieves bad breath.
Contraindications for wormwood: hypersensitivity, gastritis with increased secretion (acidity), stomach ulcers, inflammation of the gallbladder, damage to the lower esophagus and all acute forms of gastrointestinal diseases, internal bleeding, anemia. It is strictly forbidden to take the herb in any form during pregnancy and lactation. Before use in children, consult a doctor.
Features of the use of wormwood
What are the uses of wormwood at home? What herbal preparations can be purchased at the pharmacy?
Tincture
Alcohol tincture of the herb is used for all of the above indications. This medicine is especially useful for digestive and nervous system disorders. Externally used for rubbing for pain in muscles and joints, bruises and sprains.
Preparing the tincture
- Take 1 part of dry herb.
- Pour in 10 parts alcohol (70%).
- Leave for 14 days.
- Strain.
Take in a strict dosage - 20 drops 3 times a day. The dose may be doubled depending on the condition and side effects. Read more about this in our other article.
The world-famous vodka made from wormwood - absinthe - is not a medicinal product! This is a strong alcoholic drink. In addition to wormwood, it includes: mint, lemon balm, anise, fennel, angelica, parsley, hyssop, calamus and other herbs. Absinthe is dangerous due to its high thujone content. The drink harms the body, leads to rapid intoxication, and is similar in effect to a narcotic substance. It was banned in some countries. After taking it in large doses, hallucinations, dangerous altered states of consciousness, and uncontrolled aggression are possible.
Decoction
Decoctions are used internally and externally to treat the skin in the form of lotions and baths. They are added to medicinal baths for neuralgia, rheumatism, and gout.
Preparation
- Take 1 tsp. dry grass.
- Pour a glass of boiling water.
- Boil for 1 minute.
- Leave for 30 minutes.
- Strain.
Decoctions are taken in a strict dosage of ¼ cup half an hour before meals.
There are many positive reviews about rice water with wormwood, which helps with digestive disorders.
Preparation
- Take 1 cup of prepared rice water.
- Add 1 tbsp. a spoonful of dry herbs.
- Boil for 1 minute.
- Leave for 1 hour.
Take it in the same way as regular wormwood decoction.
Application of seeds and root
Wormwood seeds have the same healing properties as the above-ground part of the plant. The essential oil contained in the seeds is of particular value.
Preparation of oil extract from seeds
- Take 1 part crushed grass seeds.
- Pour in 4 parts olive oil.
- Leave for 10 hours.
Oil take 2 drops 3 times a day. Due to its strong bitterness, it can be diluted in honey or washed down with water.
Wormwood root is effective against helminthiasis, as well as against malignant tumors. It is used to prepare decoctions for medicinal baths for diseases of muscles and joints. For female diseases, it is taken orally and used externally for douching.
Preparation of a decoction from the root
- Take 2 tbsp. l. chopped root.
- Pour a glass of boiling water.
- Boil in a sealed container for 5 minutes.
- Leave for 1 hour.
Take strained, 2 tbsp. l. 3 times a day before meals.
Application of juice and fresh herbs
Wormwood juice helps get rid of calluses. It is used externally to treat wounds, abrasions, burns, abscesses, promotes their rapid healing, and quickly stops bleeding in injuries. It is recommended to take wormwood juice internally, but due to its strong bitterness, it is diluted with honey. However, you need to remember that juice contains more toxic substances; you should not overdose it. Fresh, mashed grass is applied to bruises and tumors. It is recommended to chew young shoots and leaves of the grass to disinfect the oral cavity, normalize appetite and sleep, and eliminate bad breath.
Pharmacy drugs
- Wormwood essential oil. Most often it is prescribed for neuroses, to improve memory and sleep quality. Relieves nausea during motion sickness, cleanses the body of toxins, eliminates pain during migraines, spasms of the gastrointestinal tract, relieves colds, ARVI, and flu. It is also used externally in cosmetology, to treat wounds, bruises, and sprains. It is important to remember that wormwood essential oil is a toxic drug and should not be consumed uncontrollably.
- Dry vegetable raw materials. The instructions for use indicate that this medicinal plant belongs to the group of choleretic drugs. It is prescribed to increase appetite, in the complex treatment of chronic gastritis with low acidity and cholecystitis, biliary dyskinesia.
- Alcohol tincture. In pharmacology, it refers to drugs that increase appetite due to the bitter content. The main indications for use are gastrointestinal diseases. The tincture is taken 15–20 drops 3 times a day.
About the antihelminthic properties of wormwood
Side effects and safety precautions
Overdose and long-term treatment can lead to side effects:
- allergy to wormwood in the form of urticaria and itching;
- indigestion: nausea, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, vomiting;
- convulsions;
- dizziness;
- headache;
- tremor;
- loss of consciousness;
- hallucinations.
What should you remember during treatment?
- The course of treatment and dosage is prescribed by the doctor.
- Therapy lasts no more than 2 weeks.
- A repeated course is prescribed taking into account the effectiveness of treatment and side effects.
- Wormwood is prohibited for children under 12 years of age.
- Before using wormwood as an anthelmintic in children, you should consult a doctor.
- If any side effects occur, you should stop taking the herb and consult a doctor.
Wormwood herb is the best remedy for normalizing digestion and stimulating appetite. The herb also helps with nervous disorders, metabolic disorders, malignant tumors, skin lesions, joint and muscle pain. This is one of the most effective herbal antihelminthics.
Wormwood is a plant that is mentioned many times in the Bible and depicts the retribution of sinners, suffering, and falling away from the Creator. In Russian folk songs, epics, and sayings, wormwood was often mentioned as a symbol of bitterness and melancholy...
The Holy Fathers also used wormwood in comparisons:
“Just as bitter wormwood is beneficial for those who have poor digestion, so it is beneficial for the evil-willed to endure bitter misfortunes: for these medicines bring health to those, and repentance to those.”
Venerable Mark the Ascetic
“Annoyance, humiliation and all similar cases in the soul of a novice are likened to wormwood bitterness, and praise, honor and approval are like honey. But wormwood cleanses all internal impurity, and honey usually increases bile.”
Venerable John Climacus
“...life, with the memory of God and following one’s conscience, in itself is an inexhaustible source of spiritual joys, compared with which earthly joys are like wormwood before honey...”
Saint Theophan the Recluse
Wormwood herb is very popular in our time for its medicinal properties. Quite frequently visited articles have been published on the Internet, which describe the properties of wormwood with incorrect illustrations: instead of the required wormwood, photos of common wormwood (Chernobyl) are displayed. However, anyone can make a mistake, so we will immediately present pictures of different types of wormwood:
There is a legend that in ancient Rome, wormwood was considered a gift from the goddess Artemis, and this perennial herbaceous plant was named after her - Artemisia absintium. It was believed that wormwood gives soldiers fearlessness and strength, relieves fatigue on long campaigns, relieves muscle pain, and protects against poisoning.
Wormwood grows everywhere: both in the village and in the city, it can be seen along roads and highways, in wastelands and forests. This is facilitated by the unpretentiousness of wormwood to soil composition and weather conditions.
The very strong aromatic, tart smell and very bitter taste of wormwood is used in the alcoholic beverage industry for the production of Absinthe and Vermouth. In some countries, wormwood is grown specifically for this purpose. By the way, vermouth is another name for wormwood.
The genus of wormwood is very numerous, they differ both in appearance and in chemical composition, therefore their medicinal properties are different. The most common species is wormwood and can be found in many countries and regions.
The stem and leaves of wormwood are silky, grayish-silver due to the abundance of tiny hairs on the upper surface of the leaves. This is a very important sign to find wormwood. On the bushing stems there are leaves, which become smaller and simpler closer to the inflorescences.
Baskets of small flowers are collected into a complex panicle inflorescence, from a distance reminiscent of a mimosa branch from old postcards, which is not a mimosa at all, but a silver acacia (by the way, the tropical mimosa hostilis itself was recognized as a drug).
In July-August, you can observe the rich silver inflorescences with golden splashes of flowering wormwood and inhale their specific “wormwood” smell.
The chemical composition of wormwood is much wider than that of other types of wormwood.
The leaves and grass contain essential oil, bitter glycosides absinthine and anabsintin, phytoncides, tannins, resins, vitamins C and B6, carotene (provitamin A), succinic, acetic, malic acids, protein, starch.
In folk medicine, wormwood uses all parts of the plant: both above-ground and underground.
This time-tested home remedy:
- stimulates appetite
- improves digestion by stimulating the secretion of the digestive glands,
- enhances the secretion of pancreatic juice and bile (mezim is not needed),
has an analgesic effect,
hemostatic,
external antiseptic.
Used internally for:
- indigestion,
- diarrhea,
- gastritis with reduced acidity,
- stomach pain,
- stomach colic,
- flatulence,
- for diseases of the liver and gall bladder as a choleretic and diuretic,
- with poor pancreatic function,
- in the complex treatment of food allergies,
- anemia,
- depression,
- insomnia,
- bad breath,
- for hemorrhoids,
- fever,
- tuberculosis,
- articular rheumatism,
- gout,
- epilepsy,
- with insufficient and irregular menstruation,
- for rapid treatment of conjunctivitis,
- externally for bruise, dislocation, arthritis, arthrosis, osteochondrosis, vertebral hernia.
In addition, wormwood was used as a remedy for fleas in animals and lice in humans, and also as an anthelmintic. This is not a complete list of the uses of wormwood in folk medicine.
To prepare the infusion, you need 10 grams of chopped herbs / 1 level tablespoon / pour a glass of boiling water in a thermos. After 30 minutes you can strain everything. Take the bitter infusion, measuring 1 tablespoon, 30 minutes before meals. Store wormwood infusion in a cool place.
The plant is poisonous; wormwood chemicals can accumulate in the body with prolonged use.
Long-term use, including large doses, can lead to poisoning. Therefore, a course of no more than 1 month is recommended, with a break of 1-2 months between courses.
It should be noted that wine with wormwood (absinthe), with constant consumption, can also cause poisoning, which is manifested by severe nervous diseases, the development of so-called wormwood epilepsy, confusion, hallucinations, fainting, and vomiting is possible.
In medical practice, wormwood preparations are recommended for gastritis with low acidity, enterocolitis, in the complex treatment of food allergies, as a means of increasing appetite after severe illnesses accompanied by exhaustion, in the complex treatment of diseases of the blood and spleen.
Dosage forms in official medicine are alcohol tincture, aqueous infusion, extract (in homeopathy), essential oil.
Wormwood tincture is sold in pharmacies. It should be taken 20 minutes before meals, 15-20 drops.
Timing and methods of collecting wormwood
Collect basal and stem leaves with gloves before or at the beginning of flowering, in May-June. Flowering tops are collected during flowering in July-August.
Dry in the open air or in a well-ventilated room, laying out layers of grass no more than 5 cm. Drying wormwood under an iron roof is not recommended.
Use of wormwood in folk medicine
In Russian villages back in the 50-60s of the twentieth century, houses were fumigated with wormwood smoke to prevent bedbugs and fleas. For the same purpose, wormwood brooms were steamed and the walls and floors of the home were washed; wormwood brooms were prepared for disinfection of the Russian bathhouse, as well as for treating joints and the spine in the bathhouse. Since childhood, many people, especially those familiar with village life, associate the “Russian spirit” with the smell of wormwood and the Russian bathhouse.
This scent is now available to anyone who can afford to buy a bottle of wormwood essential oil. Wormwood essential oil is obtained from the herb through distillation. It also has medicinal properties - antiseptic, bactericidal, analgesic, expectorant, and decongestant. The smell of wormwood is used in aromatherapy for influenza, colds, bronchitis and coughs, migraines, seasickness, nausea, nervous and muscle tension.
For diseases of the joints and spine, apply an oil compress to the sore spot for 30-40 minutes, rub in a mixture of essential oil with internal pork or badger lard in a ratio of 1:3.
Contraindications to the use of wormwood are:
- stomach ulcer, hyperacid gastritis,
- individual intolerance,
- pregnancy and breastfeeding
- heavy bleeding
- renal failure,
- severe liver disease (the plant is poisonous).
In modern folk medicine, wormwood is widely used as an anthelmintic and a means of cleansing the body of protozoa and Candida fungi.
Be careful!
Pharmacist-herbalist Vera Vladimirovna Sorokina
Content
People became aware of the benefits of the bitter spring plant several centuries ago. Admirers of traditional medicine know how important wormwood is - the medicinal properties and contraindications of this herb are amazing, because one spoon of dried leaves contains an amount of useful substances that is not found in any pharmaceutical preparation. Simple homemade recipes will help you use the plant for the benefit of your health. The main thing is not just to know what wormwood heals, but also to be able to use it correctly. This is described in more detail in the continuation of the article.
What is wormwood
The appearance of the medicinal plant is familiar to everyone. Wormwood has a short but very branched root and erect stems of a silver-gray color with slight pubescence. The grass grows up to 2 meters in height. Leaves, depending on the season and location on the stem, can be bipinnate, trifoliate, sessile or separate. According to the biological classification, the plant belongs to the Asteraceae family. The grass is widespread throughout Europe and Central Asia. Wormwood is collected during the flowering period, which occurs at the beginning of summer.
Compound
The medicinal properties of wormwood in folk medicine are due to the benefits of the substances contained in the plant. The herb contains a lot of biologically active components, including:
- essential oil;
- tannins;
- flavonoids;
- lignans;
- organic acids;
- carotene;
- ascorbic acid;
- esculin;
- coumarin;
- umbelliferone;
- macroelements;
- microelements;
- bitter lactones - anabsintin, absinthine.
Application
The benefits of wormwood for the body have been used by experts in home recipes to treat a variety of ailments for several centuries. The plant is used as an antiseptic, choleretic, anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, diuretic, analgesic, anticonvulsant and antimalarial. For insomnia, wormwood can be used as a mild sleeping pill. In cooking, this plant is used as a seasoning to add a piquant aroma to meat dishes.
Medicinal properties
Wormwood has found application in many areas. It is widely used to combat ailments of the central nervous system, intestines, stomach, and female genital organs. In skillful hands, this plant will become an effective remedy against certain types of infection. For treatment to be effective, you need to know all the beneficial properties of wormwood and contraindications.
In gynecology
Preparations based on this plant successfully cope with diseases of the female genital organs. Wormwood fights infections, inflammatory processes and diseases caused by disorders in the endocrine system. In addition, it is used for irregularities in the menstrual cycle and microflora disorders. Among other things, there are reliably known cases of successful and completely harmless healing from cervical erosion and thrush. In addition to oral administration, douching with a herbal decoction is also possible. Contraindications in this area are minimal.
For gastritis
Many pharmaceuticals used in modern medicine contain wormwood. The natural substances that make up this plant improve the functioning of the digestive tract. The action of wormwood in relation to the gastrointestinal tract is aimed at eliminating irritation and inflammatory processes on the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines. In addition, the bitter taste of the plant stimulates the appetite and helps stimulate the digestion process.
For nervous disorders
Anyone who is more or less familiar with traditional medicine knows that wormwood can soothe. If you make wormwood infusion every day and take it before bed, you can overcome insomnia. In addition, this plant copes well with neurosis and other similar conditions. For this, wormwood root is used. It needs to be ground and infused according to a special recipe.
For oncology
Several years ago, scientists discovered the ability of wormwood to kill cancer cells. In many circles this plant is considered a weed, but from practical examples it can be concluded that it has simply not been fully studied. Substances contained in wormwood interact with iron, which is present in cancer cells. This explains the effectiveness of the herb against cancer.
To combat such ailments, traditional medicine of the 21st century recommends using wormwood in dry form as a food additive. In addition, you can pour boiling water over the herb, infuse it, and then drink it. Meanwhile, official science is looking for a way to obtain a special wormwood extract that will forever solve the problem hanging over humanity with the terrible name “cancer.”
How to use
The variety of uses for this herb is amazing. The above-ground part of the plant is used to prepare all kinds of extracts, infusions and tinctures. Wormwood seeds are ground into powder and taken to increase potency. The medicinal properties of the herb leaves are used in the fight against gastroenterological and gynecological disorders. A decoction of wormwood is used for healing baths for gout. At the same time, some experts claim that this plant can rejuvenate the brain.
To ensure that the use of folk remedies based on wormwood does not cause harm to the body, you need to act with extreme caution. The first step is to make sure that there are no contraindications for use. If there are no problems with this, you can gradually begin treatment. The first course of therapy should be a trial – that is, minimal. It will show how the body reacts to wormwood treatment.
Cooking recipes
To get the desired result from wormwood treatment, you need to clearly know all the medicinal properties and contraindications of this plant. In addition, it is necessary to strictly follow proven protocols for the preparation of medicinal drugs. To do this, you will have to learn how to choose and process raw materials correctly. The centuries-old practice of treating bitter wormwood is replete with many cases of successful relief from various diseases, so you should not risk your health by experimenting with recipes.
Wormwood decoction
A simple remedy with impressive medicinal properties. Wormwood decoction cleanses the gastric tract, treats erosion, tuberculosis and even cancer. To prepare such a medicine will require a minimum of time and effort. The cooking process consists of several simple steps:
- Grind dried herb leaves.
- Place 2 tablespoons of the resulting raw material for the decoction in a metal container.
- Pour a glass of boiling water.
- Place over moderate heat and boil for 2-3 minutes.
- Cool, strain through gauze or bandage.
- Add 0.2 liters of chilled boiled water.
The resulting drink should be taken 2-3 times a day, 30 minutes before meals. The normal dose for an adult is 50 ml (3 tablespoons). In addition, this decoction is an excellent remedy for enemas against worms. To prevent the medicine from losing its healing power, it must be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of no more than 10 °C. If the medicine is not completely used up within a week, you will have to get rid of it.
Infusion
- Place a teaspoon of chopped dry herb in a small metal container.
- Pour a glass of boiling water.
- To cover with a lid.
- Let it brew for 2 hours.
- Strain 2-3 times.
Wormwood tea
This drink heals the gastrointestinal tract, regulates metabolism and promotes the production of pancreatic enzymes. Due to these properties, it can be used as a primary or additional means for weight loss. Drinking wormwood tea at night will help you sleep. To prepare wormwood tea, you need:
- Place a spoonful of dried and crushed herb leaves in a ceramic container with a lid.
- Then pour a glass of boiling water.
- In 10 minutes the drink will be ready to drink.
Contraindications
Specialists in the field of traditional medicine know how wormwood is useful and what medicinal properties it has, but they are in no hurry to prescribe it to everyone. If the patient is found to have contraindications to the use of this plant, he will have to look for other methods of treatment. The following are cases in which the use of wormwood is strictly prohibited:
- peptic ulcers of the stomach and duodenum (acute and chronic);
- pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- age up to 12 years;
- allergy to wormwood;
- epilepsy;
- anemia;
- internal bleeding.
Video
Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give treatment recommendations based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.
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What is wormwood
Wormwood is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Asteraceae family, 50–125 cm high, silvery in color, with a strong aromatic odor and the famous wormwood bitterness. It is considered the most bitter plant in our flora. Wormwood often grows as a subshrub with a branched tap root and erect shoots with silver-tomentose pubescence. The lower leaves are long-petiolate, twice or thrice pinnately dissected, the middle leaves are short-petiolate, twice pinnately dissected, the upper leaves are almost sessile, pinnate or twice trifoliate.
The baskets are spherical, 2–3 mm in diameter, in a narrow paniculate inflorescence. The involucre of the baskets is imbricated, the leaves are broad-membranous. The receptacle is convex, hairy. The flowers are tubular, yellow, the marginal ones are pistillate, the middle ones are bisexual. The achenes are about 1 mm long, oblong-wedge-shaped, finely grooved, with a rounded, slightly convex area at the apex. Wormwood reproduces by seeds. The plant is resistant to drought and frost.
The beneficial properties of wormwood are due to the active substances - absintin, anabsintin, flavonoids, thujone, pinene, cadinene, bisabolone, chamazulenogen, selinene. Phytoncides, alkaloids, capillin, ascorbic acid, and provitamin A were found in the leaves. The plant is rich in malic and succinic acids, tannins, saponins, and carotene.
The galenic substances of the herb stimulate the reflex function of the pancreas and gallbladder, increasing the secretion of bile and thereby improving digestion. Terpenoid compounds have anti-inflammatory and cardiac stimulating effects. Wormwood essential oil stimulates and normalizes the functioning of the central nervous system. The grass is known for its bactericidal and fungicidal properties due to its unsaturated hydrocarbons.
Medicinal properties of wormwood
Wormwood is one of the oldest medicinal plants. In medicine in many countries around the world, it is used as a means of improving digestion and stimulating appetite. Wormwood preparations are used for dyspepsia, hypoacid gastritis, diseases of the liver, gall bladder, insomnia, malaria, influenza, and catarrh of the upper respiratory tract. Chamazulene, obtained from the aerial part of wormwood, is used in the treatment of bronchial asthma, rheumatism, eczema and x-ray burns. Wormwood is part of a choleretic, appetizing and gastric mixture that reduces flatulence.
For oral administration, wormwood is used as an anthelmintic astringent for gastritis, gastric ulcers, dysentery, rheumatism, anemia, jaundice, obesity, migraine, hypertension, pulmonary tuberculosis, edema, leucorrhoea, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids, bad breath , epilepsy, as an expectorant and antispasmodic, for neurasthenia, heartburn, cholera and for the treatment of alcoholism. Externally, medicines from wormwood are used as a hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and wound-healing agent, for lotions and compresses for bruises, purulent wounds and ulcers, and allergies.
Wormwood contraindications
Wormwood herb is strictly contraindicated for use during pregnancy. Toxic substances that are present in wormwood can negatively affect the course of pregnancy and even (in rare cases) provoke a miscarriage. The entire period of breastfeeding should also pass without the participation of tinctures and decoctions of wormwood.
Wormwood is contraindicated for those people who suffer from bleeding, enterocolitis, and allergies to some components of the plant. A relative contraindication for the use of wormwood plants is a combination of advanced age and increased body weight. For people with such indicators, wormwood may be too powerful a remedy that will cause harm to the body.
If you have thrombophlebitis, then wormwood should not be taken orally either. When deciding to use wormwood for treatment, contraindications to its use should be studied especially carefully. Measure each gram of herb carefully for teas, infusions and infusions. Wormwood is very poisonous, so the slightest overdose can easily provoke significant mental disorders, muscle tremors, and even the appearance of visions in a healthy person. It is not recommended to drink wormwood preparations for a long time, as this can also provoke a dangerous overdose.
In addition, it should be remembered that treatment with medicinal herbs requires compliance with:
Recipes for medicines based on wormwood:
Wormwood for diarrhea
If flatulence is accompanied by loose stools, the following remedy can be recommended. Take equal proportions of wormwood, horsetail and yarrow herbs, cinquefoil rhizome, chop everything, mix, 1 tbsp. l. pour 1 liter of cold water over the mixture and heat in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Strain the finished broth. Take 1 glass 2 times a day - morning and evening.
When the cause of flatulence is dysbacteriosis, and its consequence is an upset stomach, one of the following medications can help.
Take wormwood and centaury herbs in equal proportions, chop, mix thoroughly, 1 tbsp. l. pour a glass of boiling water over the mixture, cover, leave for 10 minutes, strain and take half a glass 4 times a day.
Take wormwood, horsetail, St. John's wort and yarrow herbs, angelica root in equal proportions, chop everything, mix, 5 tbsp. l. pour 0.5 liters of Cahors mixture into the mixture, cook for 10 minutes, then add ½ tsp to the boiling broth. valerian root and mint leaves and simmer for 1 minute. Cool the finished broth, strain and take 3 times a day after meals, diluting 2 tbsp. l. in a glass of boiled water.
Take wormwood herb and tangerine peel in equal proportions, chop everything, mix, 1 tbsp. l. pour 0.5 liters of water into the mixture, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 20 minutes. Then wrap the pan with the broth and leave for an hour, then strain and take 1 glass 4 times a day.
Take 1 part each of wormwood and wacht leaves, tangerine peel, 2 parts calamus root, 4 parts each of centaury herb and yellow gentian. Grind everything, mix, pour in vodka in a ratio of 1:5, leave for a week, strain and take 20 drops 2 times a day before meals.
Take wormwood branches, mantle grass and marshmallow root in equal proportions, chop everything, mix, 2 tbsp. l. pour 1 liter of Cahors mixture into the mixture and cook for 10 minutes. Strain the finished broth and take half a glass hot on an empty stomach, and then during the day drink half a glass of cold broth 1 hour after each meal, but not more than 0.5 liters.
Sometimes the cause of indigestion is not a disease of the gastrointestinal tract, but nervous tension. In such cases, this medicine helps well. Take 0.5 tsp. valerian root, add a glass of water and cook for 3 minutes. Then pour the infusion prepared from ¼ tsp into the resulting broth. wormwood powder and a glass of boiling water, which must be infused for literally 30 seconds. Leave the mixture of decoction and infusion for an hour, strain and drink 1 glass a day.
You can also take 1 tsp. dry crushed wormwood herb, pour 2 cups of boiling water, leave for 20 minutes, strain and take ¼ cup 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals.
In case of poisoning with low-quality foods or drinks, such treatment is recommended. Take ¼ tsp. wormwood powder, add 1 glass of water, cook for 3 minutes, strain and take 4 times during the day. Continue treatment for 2-3 days in a row.
You can get rid of worms in a fairly simple way. To do this you need to take 1 tbsp. l. dry crushed wormwood herb, pour a glass of boiling water, leave for an hour and strain. Add garlic juice to the resulting infusion in the ratio of half a glass of juice per glass of infusion, mix everything thoroughly and use the resulting mixture for enemas.
To remove roundworms from the body, you can resort to one of the following recipes.
Take 1 tsp. wormwood herbs, brew 2 cups of boiling water, leave for 30 minutes, strain and take ¼ cup 30 minutes before meals 3 times a day.
You can also fill the bottle with dry wormwood herb, which must be harvested in May, fill it with 70% alcohol and leave for 3 weeks in the sun. Strain the prepared tincture and take 20 drops 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals.
Take dry baskets of sea wormwood, crush into powder and mix with honey at the rate of 1.5 tbsp. l. powder per glass of honey. Take one and a half hours before meals 3 times a day.
Take 2 tbsp. l. wormwood root, pour 0.5 liters of kvass and boil for 5 minutes. Strain the broth and drink while lying in bed, covered with a warm blanket.
If there is a bovine tapeworm in your body, a medicine prepared according to the following recipe will help get rid of it. Take 3 parts each of wormwood and buckthorn herbs, valerian root, tansy flowers, peppermint leaves and 5 parts carrot seeds. Grind everything, mix, 4 tbsp. l. pour 0.5 liters of boiling water over the mixture, cook over low heat for 10 minutes, strain and take a glass in the morning and evening for 3 days in a row.
Wormwood for gastritis
When treating chronic gastritis with reduced secretory function at the stage of recovery from an exacerbation, it is recommended to use one of the following medications.
Take wormwood and St. John's wort herbs in equal proportions, watch leaves, caraway fruits, chop everything, mix, 2 tbsp. l. pour the mixture into a thermos, pour a glass of boiling water, leave for 12 hours, strain and take ⅓ glass 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals.
You can also take wormwood herb, calamus rhizomes, trefoil leaves and caraway fruits in equal proportions. Grind everything, mix, 1 tbsp. l. pour a glass of hot water into the mixture, bring to a boil, cook for 10 minutes, strain and take ⅓ glass 3 times a day 20 minutes before meals. The course of treatment is 6 weeks.
Wormwood for exacerbation of stomach ulcers
In case of exacerbation of stomach ulcers, as well as for its prevention, the following remedy helps well. Take 2 parts of wormwood herb, 1 part each of flax seeds, cudweed grass, chamomile and calendula flowers, white rose petals, large burdock leaves and rose hips, 3 parts of dill fruits, 4 parts each of St. John's wort and plantain leaves, 7 parts of yarrow grass tops . Grind everything, mix thoroughly, 2 tbsp. l. pour 2 cups of boiling water over the mixture and heat in a water bath for 10 minutes, then leave for 45 minutes, strain, cool and take half a glass 30 minutes before meals 3 times a day.
Wormwood for hemorrhoids
A remedy prepared according to the following recipe will help reduce the suffering caused by hemorrhoids and heal fissures in the anal canal. Take 1 tsp. wormwood, not bitter, but ordinary, pour into a glass with honey and mix thoroughly. A solution of this mixture at the rate of 1 tbsp. l. Make microenemas with half a glass of warm water 2-3 times a day.
To stop hemorrhoidal bleeding, you can use this remedy. Take crushed wormwood grass and blood-red hawthorn powder in equal proportions, mix, 1 tbsp. l. pour a glass of boiling water over the mixture, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes. Strain the finished broth and take 1 tsp. 3 times a day before meals.
Wormwood for the liver and gallbladder
Acute pain in the liver area can be relieved with the help of a medicine prepared from such a collection.
Take dry herbs of wormwood, sage and juniper in equal proportions, chop, mix, 4 tbsp. l. pour 1 liter of boiling water over the mixture, close the lid and leave for 1 hour. Strain the finished infusion and take ⅓ glass 3 times a day. Treatment will be effective only with strict adherence to the diet. All fatty and spicy foods, broths, black bread and, of course, alcohol should be excluded from the diet.
For chronic inflammatory processes of the liver tissue and associated inflammatory phenomena in the intrahepatic bile ducts, this remedy can be recommended. Take wormwood and yarrow herbs, immortelle flowers, fennel or dill fruits and mint leaves in equal proportions. Grind everything, mix thoroughly, 2 tbsp. l. pour 0.5 liters of boiling water over the mixture, heat in a water bath for 15 minutes, then leave for 45 minutes, strain and take half a glass 4 times a day 15 minutes before meals.
For chronic cholecystitis and cholangitis, one of the following remedies can be used. Take 2 parts each of wormwood and yarrow herbs, fennel or dill fruits, mint leaves, 3 parts immortelle flowers. Grind everything, mix, 2 tbsp. l. pour the mixture with 2 glasses of cold water and leave for 12 hours. After this, strain the infusion and take ⅓ glass 4 times a day.
You can also take equal proportions of wormwood and yarrow grass, barberry and juniper fruits, birch leaves, chop everything, mix and 1 tbsp. l. pour a glass of boiling water over the mixture. Leave in a warm place for an hour, strain and take 1 glass 2 times a day, morning and evening.
In addition, you can take 3 parts of wormwood herb and barberry root, 4 parts of lingonberry leaves and centaury herb, 10 parts of immortelle flowers. Grind everything, mix, 2 tbsp. l. pour the mixture with 2 cups of hot water, heat in a water bath for 5 minutes, strain and take 2 tbsp. l. 4 times a day before meals.
For those suffering from biliary dyskinesia of the spastic type, the following medication can be recommended. Take 1 part each of wormwood herb, watch leaves and mint. Grind everything, mix, 1 tbsp. l. pour a glass of warm boiled water over the mixture, leave for 6 hours, then simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, strain and take 3 tbsp. l. 30 minutes before meals.
Wormwood for cholelithiasis
For cholelithiasis, medications prepared according to the following recipes help well. Take 1 part of wormwood herb, mint leaves, buckthorn bark and dandelion root, 2 parts of immortelle flowers and 4 parts of madder root. Grind everything, mix, 1 tbsp. l. pour the mixture with a glass of water, heat in a water bath for 10 minutes, then leave for 20 minutes, strain and take half a glass 4 times a day 30 minutes before meals.
You can also take 2 parts each of wormwood and yarrow herbs, immortelle flowers, mint leaves, 1 part each of buckthorn bark and fennel fruit. Grind everything, mix, 1 tbsp. l. pour the mixture into a glass of water, heat in a water bath for 10 minutes, then leave for 20 minutes, strain and take 1 glass 3 times a day after meals.
Colds
For a runny nose and sore throat, which may be the beginning of a cold, we can recommend this remedy. Take 2 tbsp. l. wormwood, pour into a bottle, pour a glass of vodka, cork and leave in a dark place for 3 weeks. Strain the finished tincture and store in the refrigerator. Take 2 tbsp. l. with hot tea once a day for no more than three days in a row.
At high temperatures, the medicine made from the seeds of paniculata helps very well. To prepare it, take 1 tbsp. l. seeds, pour a glass of vegetable oil, put on low heat, bring to a boil and boil for 4 minutes. Then cool slightly and coat the patient with the resulting product.
Wormwood for cough
You can get rid of a cough using a decoction prepared according to this recipe. Take the grass and roots of wormwood in equal proportions, chop, mix and 1 tsp. pour a glass of boiling water over the mixture. Leave for an hour, strain and drink 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 3 days, after which you need to take a break. In parallel with the infusion, cough medicine should be taken.
Wormwood for herpes
Herpes can be cured by using the following medicine. Take 1 part of Austrian wormwood, 3 parts each of oregano and silverweed, chop everything, mix, 1 tbsp. l. pour the mixture with a glass of water at room temperature, close the lid tightly and leave in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. Then leave for 45 minutes at room temperature, strain and take ⅓ glass 3 times a day 10 minutes before meals.
Wormwood for neuralgia
For cervical neuralgia, or myositis, rubbing with this remedy helps a lot. Take 1 tbsp. l. flower baskets of wormwood, pour into a thermos, pour a glass of boiling water and leave for two hours. Strain the infusion and use only for external rubbing, after which the sore spot should be covered with a woolen scarf and lie down for a while. If there is no tsitvarny wormwood, then you can get by with regular one. In this case, 3 tbsp. l. Pour wormwood into a glass jar, pour a glass of vodka and place in a warm, lit place. Leave for a week, strain and apply to rub sore spots. By the way, poultices of this infusion also help with radiculitis.
Wormwood for women
For scanty and insufficient menstruation, lasting less than 3 days, you can use a medicine prepared according to the following recipe. Take 1 tbsp. l. wormwood roots, pour 0.5 liters of boiling water, leave for 4 hours in a sealed container, strain and take half a glass 2 times a day, an hour and a half before meals for 5 days.
For spasmodic pain in the uterus, it is advised to take the pharmaceutical preparation of wormwood paniculata - 2 drops an hour before meals.
In case of uterine bleeding, you should consult a antenatal clinic doctor as soon as possible, and you can use this recipe as first aid to avoid large blood losses. Take a glass of wormwood herb, mix with 1 tsp. blood red hawthorn, 1 tbsp. l. pour a glass of boiling water over the mixture, cook over low heat for 10 minutes, then leave for 30 minutes, strain and take ⅓ glass no more than 3 times a day an hour and a half before meals. If after the first two doses there is a tendency to reduce bleeding, then it is not necessary to drink the remaining third of the glass. This recipe can be used only when there is complete confidence that the possibility of pregnancy is excluded.
During menopause, you can smooth out unpleasant symptoms with the following infusion. Take 2 tbsp. l. wormwood herbs, peppermint leaves, fennel, linden blossom and alder buckthorn bark, chop everything, mix, pour 1 liter of boiling water, leave for an hour, strain and take 1 glass in the morning and evening.
Wormwood for cystitis
This medicine can help with cystitis. Take equal proportions of wormwood, lungwort and sage herbs, plantain leaves, chop everything and mix. Pour 1 tbsp. l. mixture with a glass of boiling water, add 1 tbsp. l. honey, bring to a boil, simmer for 10 minutes, strain and dilute with water so that you end up with 1 cup of liquid. Take 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day before meals. The course of treatment should be no more than three days.
For edema and kidney disease, this remedy can be used as a diuretic. Take 1 tsp. dry crushed wormwood herb, pour 2 cups of boiling water, cover tightly, wrap and leave for 3 hours. Then strain and take ¼ cup 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals.
For urolithiasis, we can recommend a medicine prepared according to the following recipe. Take 7 tbsp. l. wormwood herbs, pour 1 liter of water at room temperature, leave for 24 hours, then put on fire and simmer for 10 minutes. Cool the finished broth, strain, then add 350 g of sugar or honey and cook until thickened. Take 1 tbsp. l. 4 times a day after meals.
Wormwood for insomnia
If you have insomnia, you can try this soothing bath. Take 1 glass of wormwood and mint leaves, hop cones, pour 5 liters of boiling water, leave for 3 hours and pour the resulting infusion into the prepared bath. When you lie down in the bath, you need to try to relax and let go of all thoughts. Take a bath for 10–20 minutes, after which, without being distracted by business, immediately go to bed. The course of treatment is 10 days.
Those suffering from insomnia can also benefit from the following medicine. Take 1 tbsp. l. herbs wormwood and thistle, chicory root, 1.5 tbsp. l. buckthorn bark and valerian root, 2 tbsp. l. herbs watercress and speedwell. Grind everything, mix, 1 tbsp. l. pour a glass of boiling water over the mixture, close the lid, leave for 30 minutes, strain and drink 1 glass of chilled infusion before bed.
Wormwood for alcoholism
Patients with alcoholism can be helped with such medications. Take wormwood, St. John's wort and yarrow herbs in equal proportions, grind in a coffee grinder, mix, ½ tsp. Brew the mixture with a glass of boiling water, let it brew for 10 minutes, strain and drink instead of tea.
You can also take wormwood and centaury herbs in equal proportions, chop, mix, ¼ tsp. pour a glass of boiling water, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes. Strain the broth and drink instead of tea.
You can also take fresh wormwood and Bogorodskaya herbs, chop them, mix in a ratio of 1:5, 1 tbsp. l. pour a glass of boiling water over the mixture, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. Cool the finished broth, strain and give the patient 1 tbsp. l. 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 2–3 months.
And one more recipe. Take wormwood, thyme and centaury in equal proportions, chop, mix, 1 tbsp. l. pour a glass of boiling water over the mixture, cover with a lid, wrap and leave for two hours. Then strain the infusion and take 1 tbsp. l. 4 times a day.
All these recipes reduce cravings for alcohol, but do not cause aversion to it, i.e., they are designed for a person’s conscious decision to give up drinking. Secretly adding these decoctions and infusions to tea, soup or vodka for someone who does not want to be treated is absolutely pointless.
Wormwood for varicose veins
This method of treatment helps well with varicose veins. Take fresh leaves and flower heads of silver wormwood, grind thoroughly in a mortar and then in a coffee grinder, 1 tbsp. l. Mix the resulting powder thoroughly with the same amount of sour milk or kefir and apply an even layer on gauze, which is then applied to areas with dilated veins. Treatment is carried out for 3–4 days. After a few days the course can be repeated.
Based on the book by O. A. Filatov “The Newest Herbalist. Healing plants from A to Z"
Wormwood is an amazingly beneficial herb, the very name of which creates an aura of mystery.
The original Latin name of this plant is Artemisia, and its true meaning remains a mystery to this day.
Perhaps the basis was the Greek word Artemes, which means “healthy.” But real romantics believe - this is a tribute to the memory of the goddess Artemis, who was the first to discover the healing properties of wormwood.
The herb wormwood is a natural and inexpensive cure for many diseases, an assistant in the household and the secret of the seductiveness of Cleopatra herself.
In common parlance, the herb is associated with love experiences, which is why it is often called “young lover” and “maiden’s ruin.”
However, not everyone sees this plant as a symbol of pure feeling.
In some areas you can hear the name "old man", given because of the habit of seeing wormwood as a reminder of old age.
Plant in folk beliefs
In the old days, when witchcraft was widespread, the magical meaning of wormwood was ambiguous. Adherents of occult sciences found both divine and devilish principles in this plant.
Protective amulets were made from it, potions were brewed, and love potions were prepared. It was an important component in the ritual of causing damage.
But wormwood not only brought evil, but also helped people in the fight against evil spirits.
Its smoke drove away evil spirits, and its branches hung over the doors of many houses, protecting all family members.
Nomads preparing for a long journey were warned against fatigue and illness by putting wormwood in their shoes.
The bitter herb was used by Cleopatra.
The queen added wormwood essential oil to her eau de toilette, thus becoming the most seductive woman of her era.
Later, many courtesans used this technique.
The pagans wove wreaths from wormwood, which were considered an important attribute of many rituals.
Used on the farm since ancient times
Infamous for witchcraft rituals, wormwood has also been used in a wide variety of ways.
An ingredient from this plant was used to make fabric dyes, to get rid of pests (bugs, moths) and for health purposes.
Winners of Roman chariot races were served wine with wormwood. It improved health and had a beneficial effect on the entire body.
In Rus', it was used to treat fever, festering wounds and abrasions.
The smoke of wormwood branches helped to disinfect premises during infectious epidemics - they fumigated patients and the premises where they were kept.
The grass killed fleas and lice.
Experts used it to suck out snake venom from bites.
In Chinese medicine, there was a special practice of cauterizing certain points on the human body with rolled-up wormwood cigarettes.
Classification of species
Today, about four hundred species of wormwood have been identified. Some of them do not bring any benefit, others are completely poisonous.
And only a few are able to have a healing effect if treated properly.
Poisonous varieties include Tauride wormwood.
When consumed, it causes severe poisoning, often resulting in death.
However, pharmaceutical companies have learned to extract the necessary substances from it that help in the fight against serious diseases.
Wormwood is used in both human and veterinary medicine. It contains the healing substance santonin.
For many years, people took it to get rid of roundworms until its increased toxicity was discovered.
But the essential oil turned out to be absolutely safe. It is a good bactericidal, anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent.
The most interesting type of wormwood is God's tree, also “medicinal wormwood.” It has a distinctive appearance and a pleasant lemony smell that sets it apart from hundreds of plants.
The name itself is a reference to old times when it grew only in monastic territories.
In ancient times, this type of wormwood was a cult for all Slavic peoples, and now it is used as a medicine and seasoning.
Tarragon is another variety of this herb, namely wormwood-tarragon. It found popularity as a seasoning for a reason.
The fact is that the leaves of this species do not have the bitter taste characteristic of other varieties of wormwood. This feature has made tarragon a favorite of many housewives.
It is used in canning vegetables, added to soups and meat. Vinegar with tarragon was a delicacy for a long time - it was produced only in the Caucasus and cost a lot of money.
The most popular types of wormwood can be called “wormwood” and “common wormwood.” It is easy to confuse them, because their appearance, taste and beneficial properties are practically the same.
Wormwood can be an ornamental plant and serve as a wonderful decoration for any garden. All low-growing varieties look good framed by stones.
Tree wormwood will grow to the size of a tall bush, hiding some areas in its shade.
White and silver wormwood will accompany the brightest flowers, highlighting their beauty and giving the observer's eyes a slight respite.
Medicinal properties
Wormwood can be used in many areas of life, but it brings the greatest help as a medicine.
All parts of the plant have healing properties:
- foliage,
- seeds,
- roots,
- tops.
The taste of this herb is explained quite simply - it’s all about the increased content of lactones. Wormwood has a rich chemical composition that makes it so valuable for medicinal purposes.
Wormwood contains a whole range of useful elements necessary for the human body:
Use in folk medicine, recipes
The bitter taste of wormwood stimulates the gastrointestinal tract (folk treatment for the pancreas has been written about), the genitourinary system and digestion.
Wormwood tea is considered a good preventive measure for various diseases. You need to drink it without sugar, because it reduces the beneficial effects.
Wormwood juice increases appetite, helps the pancreas function, normalizes acidity () and relieves inflammation in the intestines.
An interesting property of this plant is that wormwood can have contradictory effects.
During insomnia and nervousness, it calms the nervous system, relaxes it and causes slight weakness.
When tired and depressed, it turns into a tonic, independently adapting to the needs of the body.
It also helps with infectious diseases:
- relieves high fever and severe pain,
- replaces anticonvulsant,
- choleretic,
- anti-inflammatory drug,
- accelerates wound healing.
Wormwood cleanses the body of worms.
The recipe is simple:
- 100 gr. grind dry herbs into powder,
- Take a teaspoon with the required amount of water.
Treatment will take a week. The first three days the medicine should be taken every two hours, on the remaining days every 3-5 hours.
Wormwood tincture often used during diets.
Taking one tablespoon of tincture 15 minutes before meals can significantly speed up your metabolism.
Such manipulations will allow you to get rid of excess weight in the shortest possible time.
To prepare the infusion Take either half a tablespoon of dry herbs or a whole spoon of fresh herbs.
It is filled with a glass of boiling water and sits for half an hour, closed as tightly as possible.
Drinking this drink eliminates female diseases, ulcers, kidney and bladder diseases, and also has an expectorant effect.
Wormwood is used not only in home medicine, but also serves as the basis for many medicines, including alcohol tincture.
The list of indications for it is very long:
Pharmacy tincture can be recreated at home. Pour 5 tablespoons of seeds with 0.5 liters of vodka and leave to infuse for 21 days. The drink must be stirred every few days and filtered at the end.
The second common type of wormwood is wormwood.
Decoctions from it constrict blood vessels, increase appetite, reduce fever, soothe, and have hemostatic and restorative effects.
A decoction of the roots is used for many serious diseases:
- epilepsy,
- convulsions,
- whites,
- round worms.
Extract of this plant helps cure cancer rectum, uterus and stomach.
It induces menstruation and relieves the pain caused by it by taking half a glass of infusion three times a day.
Atherosclerosis It is treated by drinking a special drink, 2-3 tbsp. spoons before meals 3 times a day.
To prepare it:
- grind one head of garlic into a paste,
- chop 2-3 tbsp. spoons of common wormwood,
- mix the ingredients,
- pour them with a bottle of boiled dry wine.
Leave for five days, then strain and squeeze.
The following recipe will help relieve redness of the eyes and get rid of burst blood vessels:
- grind wormwood into powder,
- place in cotton cloth,
- place in boiling water.
Form a compress from the slightly cooled material and apply to the sore eye.
To disinfect abrasions, wounds should be washed with wormwood juice.
Bruises will quickly go away thanks to a compress from wormwood juice and honey, mixed in equal parts.
Wormwood infusion copes well with oily hair, effectively removing impurities.
To prepare, you will need a glass of fresh chopped herbs, filled with 2.5 liters of boiling water.
The infusion should cool for half an hour, after which it will be ready for use.
Contraindications for use
As mentioned earlier, wormwood is not always useful for everyone. Its use is strictly prohibited for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Patients with acute forms of stomach and intestinal diseases should refrain from using any folk remedies without consulting their doctor.
Long-term use and excessively large doses of wormwood can have a detrimental effect on health. Convulsions, vomiting, even hallucinations are just a small part of the side effects that uncontrolled self-medication with wormwood has.
When and how to collect wormwood, how to dry it, and what diseases the herb will help with - a herbalist will tell you. Watch the video and learn some more recipes.
