Homers Herbs

What can we help you with?
< All Topics
Print

Wormseed (Artemisia cina)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Common Names: Wormseed, Levant Wormseed, Santonica
  • Parts Used: Flower buds, aerial parts

Description

Artemisia cina is a small, aromatic herb native to Central Asia, particularly the regions of Turkmenistan and Iran. It has been historically used as a powerful anthelmintic (anti-parasitic) remedy, primarily for expelling intestinal worms, especially in children. Due to its strong bitter properties and active constituents, it has also been valued for its digestive and antimicrobial benefits.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in traditional Persian and European medicine as a primary treatment for intestinal parasites.
  • Employed as a bitter tonic to stimulate digestion.
  • Traditionally used in homeopathic medicine to address nervous disorders in children, including restlessness and irritability.

Constituents

  • Santonin (potent anthelmintic compound)
  • Essential oils (cineole, camphor, thujone)
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Bitter compounds

Actions

  • Anthelmintic (expels worms)
  • Digestive bitter
  • Carminative (relieves gas)
  • Antimicrobial
  • Nervine (calms nervous system)

Medicinal Uses

1. Intestinal Parasite Expulsion:
Artemisia cina has been traditionally used to treat roundworm and pinworm infections, particularly in children.

2. Digestive Stimulation:
Its bitter compounds aid digestion, promote appetite, and help relieve bloating and sluggish digestion.

3. Antimicrobial Properties:
Contains compounds that may help fight bacterial and fungal infections.

4. Nervous System Support (Homeopathy):
In highly diluted homeopathic preparations, Artemisia cina has been used to calm nervous irritability in children.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea) (Use with Caution):

  • 1 tsp of dried flower buds per cup of boiling water. Steep for 5-10 minutes and drink 1 time daily. Due to its strong effects, it should not be used continuously.

Tincture:

  • 1-3 ml of tincture taken 1-2 times daily. Use under professional guidance.

Powder:

  • Traditionally used in very small doses (100-300 mg) to expel worms.

Homeopathic Use:

  • Commonly used in the 6C or 30C dilution for nervous restlessness and worm-related symptoms.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use due to potential toxicity.
  • Toxicity Warning: Overuse can cause nausea, dizziness, and nervous system effects due to santonin content.
  • Not for Long-Term Use: Should only be used for short periods and under supervision.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Persian Medicine: Warming and drying, used to clear dampness and expel toxins.
  • Homeopathy: Used for irritability, restlessness, and digestive discomfort linked to parasitic infections.

Combinations

  • For Parasite Cleansing: Combine with black walnut and clove.
  • For Digestive Support: Combine with gentian and fennel.
  • For Nervous Restlessness (Homeopathy): Combine with chamomile and valerian.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Flower buds are collected before fully opening for the highest potency.
  • Drying: Dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried flowers in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Modern Research

Studies highlight Artemisia cina’s effectiveness as an anthelmintic and antimicrobial agent. Research continues on its potential applications in parasitic infections and digestive health.

Wormseed remains a historically significant herbal remedy for parasite infections and digestive health but must be used with caution due to its potent compounds.