Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
An aromatic and intensely bitter herb, wormwood was historically sought after for brewing beer until hops replaced it. A member of the Asteraceae family, Artemisia absinthium thrives along roadsides and disturbed areas across Europe, Siberia, and the United States. Traditionally, wormwood has been soaked in liquors and remains a key ingredient in absinthe. It can also be infused into herbal tea blends, tinctures, and other botanical formulations.
The phrase “as bitter as wormwood” reflects its reputation as one of the most bitter-tasting herbs. It naturally grows in disturbed soils and is often cultivated in gardens to repel pests and weeds. Historically, dried wormwood bundles were hung indoors and placed in pantries and drawers for both their fragrance and ability to deter unwanted visitors.
Wormwood is most famous for its role in absinthe, a legendary herbal spirit known for its potent effects. However, its bitterness, flavor, and green hue have also contributed to various liqueurs and aperitifs, including vermouth. In traditional European herbalism, wormwood was valued for digestive support and dates back to ancient Greece, where it was used for intestinal parasites and general wellness.
The plant belongs to the Artemisia genus, which includes around 180 species, and is a part of the Asteraceae family. Native to Europe, Asia, and Northern Africa, wormwood has naturalized worldwide. This herbaceous perennial features tall, branched stems and silver-green, deeply segmented leaves. It thrives in arid, uncultivated soils and wild landscapes.
Once a staple in beer brewing, wormwood was also believed to have magical properties. European folklore suggested its use in love potions and as a remedy for accidental poisonings from mushrooms and toxic plants. The genus name Artemisia comes from Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt and wild creatures. Greek legend claims that Artemis gifted wormwood to Chiron, the father of medicine. The name wormwood is thought to derive from its historical use in expelling intestinal worms, though some sources suggest it comes from the Anglo-Saxon word “wermode” or “wermuth,” meaning “mind preserver.”
Wormwood can be:
$9.00
| Weight | 2 oz |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3.375 × 2.5 × 7.75 in |
