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Wormwood Organic |
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Wormwood Organic
WORMWOOD - ORGANIC
(Artemisia absinthium)
History and Folklore
The botanical family of Artemisia is rather large and many writers don't differentiate much between different species. Thus, there is a lot of confusion over Wormwood, Artemisia absinthium, the green herb fairy. Most commonly it is confused with Mugwort and Southernwood, but in fact it is far more bitter than either of these and it is also more psychoactive. Back in the 19th century a, bright green drink was made from Wormwood and other herbs which became extremely fashionable with the Avant-garde. This concoction had a very high thujone content and it soon became evident that Absinth got its adherents more than just a little tipsy. Thujone is a nerve poison and Absinth became the 'designer drink' of choice among the artists of the 'belle epoch'. Numerous painters, writers and musicians succumbed to the allure of the green fairy, who drove many of them to edge and beyond the threshold between genius and madness. Absinth soon became illegal and still remains so in most countries. Nevertheless, Wormwood remains an elusive temptation among modern psychonauts, looking for cheap and exotic (albeit dangerous) thrills.
Of course, Wormwood also has an ancient history as a sacred herb and powerful medicine. Used appropriately, in the right amounts, it can indeed be very beneficial. In medieval times Wormwood was used as an insect repellent strewing herb. It also produces compounds that suppress plant growth and gardeners sometimes use Wormwood infusion to keep weeds down. However - don't use this around baby plants that you want to encourage, but only near well established plants. This concoction also discourages bugs and slugs.
Medicinal Uses:
Wormwood is exceedingly bitter and thus stimulates the digestive system and metabolism like no other herb. It helps to regulate the balance of stomach juices and stimulates the flow of bile. Wormwood cleanses the liver and kidneys and is regarded as a tonic for the blood and circulation. However, large doses of Wormwood are toxic to the kidneys. As the name suggests, it is one of the best anthelmitics, which can ruthlessly kill and expel intestinal worms. The ancients recommended it as a preventative anti-infectious agent that could be used to ward off highly infectious diseases. Externally it was applied in cases of lumbago and even paralysis.
CAUTION
Wormwood is a powerful stimulant for the uterine system and should be avoided during pregnancy. Also, do not use if prone to inner bleeding or suffering from bleeding haemorrhoids. Use in small doses only. Avoid if you are allergic to plants of the daisy family.
Magical Uses:
Wormwood is a powerful protective plant. Our Neolithic ancestors used Wormwood and Mugwort as their primary sacred herbs for smudging and cleansing. Wormwood clears the psychic channels and can be used for astral travel and channelling. In folk-magical practice it was used to protect the grain or growing crops against mice, vermin and insects. It is said to protect against mischievous elves and evil spirits and was used in anti-daemonic spells, particularly at the beginning of the year or at winter solstice. Wormwood was also sprinkled around the house or hung above the windows and doors to ward off evil spirits and disease.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child’s range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one’s own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother’s milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don’t risk regret.
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