Wormwood

Artemisia absinthium L.

Alternate names: Absinthium, absinth, madderwort, mingwort, old woman, warmot.

This shrubby, aromatic, much-branched plant grows from 2 to 4 feet in height. The growing shoots are silvery white with fine silky hairs; and the grayish-green leaves, which are from 2 to 5 inches long, are divided into small leaflets The flower clusters, appearing from July to October, consist of numerous small, insignificant, drooping, yellow heads. The plant has an aromatic odor and an exceedingly bitter taste.

It is the leaves and flowers which are used. Although it is a minor yet potent ingredient in the alcoholic beverage absinthe, it is no longer recommended for internal consumption for a variety of reasons.

External uses:

Insects avoid it, so it can serve as both insecticide and a substance to drive them away. Used as a companion planting, it will keep insects away from that part of the garden. Made into a tea, you can sprinkle it on (non-edible!) garden plants to repell insects, slugs and garden snails. A sachet of wormwood leaves and flowers will discourage moths.

The leaves can be quickly wetted in warm water, and made into a warm compress to alleviate bruising, either prophylactially or after the fact.

Further info: Wormwood and Companion Planting: Wormwood or Artemisia.