Sweet Wormwood
NameSweet Wormwood
Scientific NameArtemisia annua
Common NamesSweet Wormwood, Sweet Annie, Qinghao
Plant FamilyAsteraceae
Natural HabitatNative to temperate Asia, this plant is now naturalized in many parts of the world. It commonly grows in disturbed areas, roadsides, riverbanks, and waste grounds, preferring full sun and well-drained soil.
Parts Usedleaf,flower,whole_plant
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory,antimicrobial,antioxidant
Traditional UsesTraditionally, Sweet Wormwood has been a cornerstone of Chinese medicine (Qinghao) for treating fevers, particularly malaria, due to its potent antimalarial compound, artemisinin. It has also been used for digestive complaints, skin conditions, and as a general antiparasitic.
Active ConstituentsArtemisinin, Artemisinic acid, Artemisitene, Flavonoids, Essential oils (camphor, pinene)
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction,tincture,powder,essential_oil
Contraindications & WarningsNot recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Individuals with allergies to other plants in the Asteraceae family may experience allergic reactions. High doses can lead to nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and potential liver interactions with certain medications.
Cultivation NotesSweet Wormwood is an annual that prefers full sun and well-drained soil, though it can tolerate various soil types. It is easily propagated by seed and can readily self-seed, often becoming weedy in favorable conditions.
Raritycommon
Description
Sweet Wormwood is an aromatic annual herb characterized by its finely dissected, fern-like leaves and upright, branching stem. It produces small, yellowish-green flowers in loose panicles during late summer and early autumn.
