Wormwood tea (Artemisia absinthium) contains compounds such as thujone, which may have harmful effects on certain population groups.
It is not recommended for consumption by the following people:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Wormwood can cause uterine contractions and there is a potential risk to the fetus or infant.
- People with epilepsy or a history of seizures: Thujone extracted from wormwood can lower the seizure threshold.
- Children and teenagers: It is not considered safe for minors due to its composition.
- People who are allergic to plants of the Asteraceae family: Includes wormwood, ragweed, daisies and chrysanthemums; They may develop allergic reactions.
- People with liver or kidney disease: Wormwood can be toxic to the liver and kidneys.
- People with stomach ulcers or severe digestive problems: It may make symptoms worse.
- Individuals treated with certain medications: Especially anticonvulsants, anticoagulants or drugs that are metabolized by the liver.
Taking them for long periods or in high doses is associated with neurotoxic effects, so their consumption should be monitored and occasionally. If you have any questions, it is recommended to consult a health professional before drinking wormwood tea.
Wormwood, scientifically known as Artemisia ludoviciana Nutt. subsp. Mexican (Weld.) Cake, has established itself as one of the most versatile medicinal plants in the treatment of various conditions, especially respiratory diseases.
This herb, which ranges from the United States to Guatemala, has been prized by different cultures and indigenous communities throughout its distribution area, receiving multiple names depending on the region and local language.
Absinthe, also called estafiaate, rustic wormwood, tamizia, wormwood, azomat puebla, skunk tail, encencio de mata verde, epazote de castilla, stomiate, herbal maestro, herbal maestra, incense, green incense and estafiaate, has a notable diversity of names in Mexico.
In the state of Mexico it is known as Ampvi in Otomi and Estaviatl. and in Hidalgo, iztauhyaitl, which means “plant that produces white water”; in Michoacan, Izatuhiatl; In Puebla, guietee and iztauhyat; In Quintana Roo, Hawaii, Kauai Si Isim Tsim and Osomia; In Veracruz, Sean; In San Luis Potosi, ten tsakams and ten tsogols in Tenec; And in Chihuahua, rosabli in Rarámuri. This wealth of names reflects the deep integration of the plant into the daily life and traditional medicine of many peoples.
Wormwood can reach a height of one meter, with gray branches and elongated leaves divided into three parts. Its yellow flowers and the strong scent that the plant emits make it easy to recognize in its natural habitat. According to the Guide to Medicinal Plants of the Valley of Mexico of the National Indigenous Institute (INPI), wormwood is considered a sacred plant, anciently used in rituals and associated with lightning and elders in the Valley of Mexico.
In the therapeutic field, wormwood is distinguished by its ability to relieve symptoms of respiratory diseases such as cough, sore throat, and influenza. For this purpose, it is recommended to gargle the infusion of the plant or apply the preparation to the chest and throat. In addition, the plant is known to be effective in treating stomach diseases, as it helps relieve stomach pain, abdominal infections, diarrhea, intestinal parasites, and vomiting. In these cases, it is recommended to prepare an infusion of wormwood branches, which can be combined with wormwood, chamomile or mint to enhance its effects.