Wormwood Tea (Artemisia absinthium): Benefits, Uses, and Safety Guidelines

Wormwood tea may sound unfamiliar to some, but this powerful medicinal herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Scientifically known as Artemisia absinthium, wormwood is valued for its digestive, antiparasitic, and liver-supporting properties.

However, despite its benefits, wormwood must be used with caution, as improper or excessive use may cause adverse effects.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about wormwood tea: what it’s used for, its main benefits, how to prepare it safely, and important precautions to keep in mind.

This content does not replace medical advice.

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What Is Wormwood?

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is a perennial plant from the Asteraceae family, native to Europe and parts of Asia, but now cultivated worldwide. In English-speaking countries, it is commonly known as:

• Wormwood
• Absinthe herb
• Green ginger
• Old woman’s weed

The plant has silvery-green leaves, small yellow flowers, and a very strong, bitter aroma. Its intense bitterness is not accidental — it is directly linked to its medicinal compounds.

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Medicinal Compounds in Wormwood

Wormwood contains several bioactive substances responsible for its therapeutic effects, including:

• Sesquiterpene lactones (such as absinthin)
• Flavonoids
• Essential oils (thujone, cineole, borneol)

Together, these compounds give wormwood the following properties:

• Digestive stimulant
• Appetite enhancer
• Antiparasitic (vermifuge)
• Antimicrobial
• Antispasmodic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Mild liver-supportive action

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What Is Wormwood Tea Used For?

Wormwood tea has traditionally been used as a natural remedy for a variety of conditions. Below are its most common applications.

1. Digestive Support

Wormwood is best known for stimulating digestion. Its bitter compounds trigger the release of bile and digestive enzymes, helping to relieve:

• Bloating
• Gas
• Slow digestion
• Loss of appetite

It is often taken before meals to prepare the digestive system.

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2. Natural Parasite Cleanse

Historically, wormwood has been used as a natural antiparasitic herb. It may help eliminate intestinal worms and parasites when used short-term and under proper guidance.

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3. Relief from Cramps and Abdominal Pain

Thanks to its antispasmodic properties, wormwood tea can help reduce:

• Intestinal cramps
• Menstrual discomfort
• Digestive spasms

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4. Support During Mild Infections and Fever

Wormwood has mild antimicrobial and fever-reducing effects and has been traditionally used during minor infections or flu-like conditions.

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5. Liver and Gallbladder Support

By stimulating bile production, wormwood may assist the liver and gallbladder in fat digestion and detoxification processes. It is sometimes used in herbal detox protocols — always cautiously.

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How to Prepare Wormwood Tea Safely

Wormwood must be used in small, controlled amounts, as one of its compounds (thujone) can be toxic in high doses.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon dried wormwood leaves
• 1 cup (200 ml) hot water

Preparation Method:

1. Bring the water to a boil.
2. Turn off the heat once boiling begins.
3. Add the wormwood leaves and cover.
4. Let steep for 5–10 minutes only.
5. Strain and drink.

Recommended Use:

• Maximum: 1 cup per day
• Preferably taken before meals
• Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without professional guidance

For a deeper understanding of infusion temperatures and herbal preparation techniques, see our complete guide:
How to Prepare Medicinal Teas Correctly

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Other Traditional Uses of Wormwood

In addition to tea, wormwood may also be used in:

1. Herbal Tinctures

Alcohol-based extracts used in very small doses due to their potency.

2. Topical Compresses

Infusions applied externally to minor wounds or inflammatory skin conditions.

3. Herbal Baths

Traditionally used for muscle relaxation and menstrual discomfort.

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Safety, Side Effects, and Contraindications

Despite its benefits, wormwood is not safe for everyone.

Do NOT use wormwood if you are:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding (risk of miscarriage)
• A child under 12 years old
• Diagnosed with epilepsy or seizure disorders
• Suffering from gastritis, ulcers, or severe acid reflux
• Taking medications that affect the liver

Possible Side Effects (especially with overuse):

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Nervous system overstimulation
• Seizures (in cases of overdose)

Wormwood should never be used long-term or in high doses.

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Interesting Facts About Wormwood

• Wormwood is the main ingredient in absinthe, a historic alcoholic beverage once banned due to its psychoactive effects.
• In Traditional Chinese Medicine, related Artemisia species are used in moxibustion, a heat therapy technique.
• Ancient Greek and Roman physicians used wormwood as a digestive and cleansing herb.

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Herbs with Similar Effects to Wormwood

If you’re interested in bitter herbs with digestive and cleansing properties, you may also like:

• Boldo tea – liver and digestion support
• Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) – traditional women’s herb
• Carqueja tea – digestive and metabolic balance

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Final Thoughts: A Powerful Herb That Requires Respect

Wormwood is one of the most potent herbs in traditional herbal medicine. Its benefits for digestion, parasite cleansing, and liver support are well documented — but so are its risks when misused.

When consumed responsibly, in small amounts and for short periods, wormwood tea can be a valuable natural ally. As with any strong medicinal herb, knowledge, moderation, and respect are essential.

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Prepare your tea the right way

If you plan to use this plant to make tea, use the Nutritive Blog tea infusion timer. Proper infusion time helps preserve active compounds and ensures better results.

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