Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) – 50 g

About Wormwood

Wormwood, botanically known as Artemisia absinthium, is a strongly aromatic herb with a distinctive bitter flavour. It has been valued for centuries as a botanical ingredient in traditional beverages, herbal preparations and culinary recipes.

Wormwood is particularly associated with absinthe, the historic green spirit often referred to as the “Green Fairy”. The herb has also been used to flavour certain teas and other beverages.

History

The use of wormwood dates back to the ancient civilisations of Europe and North Africa. Historical sources indicate that the ancient Egyptians used Artemisia species in traditional preparations, while the ancient Greeks prepared a wormwood-flavoured wine known as “absinthites oinos”.

The absinthe tradition that became famous in Europe developed much later. Modern absinthe is generally associated with Switzerland and France in the late 18th and 19th centuries. Initially promoted as a botanical preparation, it eventually became a popular drink in cafés and bars and developed a strong connection with European artistic and literary culture.

During the height of absinthe’s popularity, the late afternoon drinking ritual in French cafés became known as “l’heure verte”, or “the green hour”.

Botanical Constituents

Wormwood naturally contains several aromatic compounds, including thujone, which is one of the plant’s best-known constituents. Thujone interacts with the nervous system and is responsible for some of the scientific and historical interest surrounding wormwood.

The effects of wormwood should not be equated with those of THC or cannabis. In particular, claims that thujone produces cannabis-like or hallucinogenic effects are not an established basis for using the herb.

High exposure to thujone can be harmful and may be associated with neurological effects, including seizures. For this reason, concentrated wormwood preparations require particular caution.

Traditional Herbal Use

Wormwood has traditionally been prepared as an herbal infusion.

For a simple tea:

• Use approximately 1 teaspoon of shredded wormwood per cup.
• Pour over hot, but not boiling, water.
• Allow it to infuse before straining.
• Because wormwood has a naturally intense bitterness, it can be combined with aromatic herbs such as peppermint or anise to create a more balanced flavour.

Wormwood and Absinthe

Wormwood is one of the traditional botanicals associated with absinthe production. However, preparing alcoholic absinthe at home can result in a product with unpredictable alcohol and thujone concentrations.

Do not use the instructions for homemade absinthe as a recommendation for producing or consuming concentrated alcoholic preparations. Alcohol and thujone both present safety concerns, and the legal requirements governing absinthe production vary between countries.

Product Information

• Botanical name: Artemisia absinthium
• Common name: Wormwood
• Plant material: Dried herb
• Form: Shredded
• Net quantity: 50 g

Storage

Keep the dried herb in a cool, dry and dark place, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Reseal the packaging after opening to help preserve its aroma and quality.

Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Information

Wormwood is a potent aromatic herb and should not be consumed in excessive quantities. Because it contains thujone, prolonged or high-dose use is not recommended.

Avoid concentrated wormwood preparations if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. People with neurological conditions, particularly a history of seizures, should avoid medicinal or concentrated use unless advised by a qualified healthcare professional.

This product is a botanical herb and not a medicinal product. Traditional uses do not constitute proven therapeutic claims.