Wormwood: best solution for digestive problems

The wormwood is known for being an important ingredient in Absinthe, a drink popular in Europe. But very few people are aware about medicinal benefits of this magical herb. Wormwoodcomes from the genus Artemisia. The name has been derived from goddess Artemis. All colourful daisies, garden plants and tarragon also belong to this particular family. This particular genus is also known for its bitter taste. Many wild animals therefore consume these species to cure stomach irregularities. This definitely made health experts think about the application of herb for human beings.

Medical applications of Wormwood

Historians and archaeologists have already proved that many varieties of wormwood were used as insecticides and fungicides by our ancestors. The use stopped after the medieval period. The dry wormwood used to be packed with textiles, furs and other expensive clothing to prevent fungus, flea and moth spread. A lot has been also written about its presence in love potions during medieval period. Repelling insects has been central to the application of wormwood but it has diverse application in modern pharmacy.

The characteristic bitterness of wormwood has made it a strong enemy of digestive issues faced by human beings. Gallbladder triggers the production of bile due to strong bitter taste of wormwood on tongue. It is important because the root of many digestive problems is the lack of acid production, not the excess acid quantities. All parasites such as roundworms in the digestive tracks can be successfully eliminated using this herb. Fever reduction is also possible when you have good quality wormwood. Farmers, forest dwellers often use wormwood to cure inflammation after insect bites. It also accelerates healing of wounds. Wormwood can be helpful if your partner has been inactive in bed. Rapid recovery from jaundice can be achieved by using it.

What makes it so powerful?

Wormwood contains an effective volatile oil which can be obtained through a distillation process. Once the oil is extracted from the plant, it appears blue or green in colour with strong bitter smell. The oil is combination of multiple ingredients such as thujanol alcohol, pinene, cadinene, thujone and phellandrene. Each part of plant such as leaves, flowers, stem and root has its own application.

Obtaining quality wormwood:

Wormwood should be obtained on a sunny, warm day ideally. Forest dwellers collect dried leaves, flowers and stem of plant once the blooming season begins in July. They keep leaves for drying in natural sunlight. Taking wormwood in large quantities may result in severe diarrhoea. It is always good to consult a physician for proper quantities.