Artemisia (Sweet Annie)
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NameArtemisia (Sweet Annie)
Scientific NameArtemisia annua
Common NamesSweet Annie, Sweet Wormwood, Annual Wormwood, Qinghao
Plant FamilyAsteraceae
Natural HabitatNative to temperate Asia, particularly China, it has naturalized widely across disturbed areas, roadsides, waste grounds, and riverbanks in many parts of the world, thriving in full sun and well-drained soils.
Parts Usedleaf,flower,whole_plant
Medicinal Actionsantimicrobial,anti-inflammatory,antioxidant
Traditional UsesTraditionally, *Artemisia annua* has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years to treat fevers, particularly those associated with malaria. It was also employed for various inflammatory conditions and parasitic infections.
Active ConstituentsArtemisinin, Artemisinic acid, Flavonoids, Coumarins, Essential oils
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,powder,essential_oil
Contraindications & WarningsContraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to potential abortifacient effects. May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially those allergic to other plants in the Asteraceae family. Long-term use should be avoided without professional guidance.
Cultivation NotesAn annual plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is relatively easy to grow from seed and can self-seed vigorously, often thriving in disturbed or poor soil conditions. Requires moderate watering.
Raritycommon
Description
Artemisia annua is an annual herbaceous plant characterized by its highly aromatic, fern-like leaves and small, yellowish-green flower heads arranged in loose panicles. It typically grows upright, reaching heights of 1-2 meters, with a distinctive sweet camphor-like scent.
