Sweet Wormwood
Parts Usually Used
The leaves, stems, and aerial parts of the plant are used. The artemisinin content is highest in the leaves during the flowering stage.
Description of Plant(s) and Culture
Artemisia annua is an annual short-day plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It grows 30-100cm tall naturally, though cultivated plants can reach 200cm. The stem is erect and brownish or violet-brown. The leaves are 3-5cm long and divided into two or three small leaflets. 5mm in diameter arranged in loose panicles. 8mm in diameter.
Where Found
Native to temperate Asia but naturalized in many countries including scattered parts of North America. It is grown in Asia, India, Central and Eastern Europe, temperate regions of America, Africa, and Australia.
Medicinal Properties
Artemisia annua has demonstrated antimalarial, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antitumor, anti-diabetic, and antiparasitic properties. It shows particular promise against COVID-19 in recent studies.
Biochemical Information
The plant contains over 600 secondary metabolites including artemisinin, flavonoids, coumarins, monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, phenolic compounds, and essential oils. Key compounds include artemisinin, artesunate, dihydroartemisinin, artemether, scopolin, and scopoletin.
Uses
In Traditional Chinese medicine, practitioners historically incorporated the plant into preparations for fevers and inflammatory conditions. Herbalists also traditionally utilized it with the intention of modulating the immune system.
Warning
Side effects may include: Dizziness Hearing problems Not recommended for those with ulcers or stomach disorders Should be used cautiously during pregnancy due to potential embryotoxicity at high doses May interact with certain medications