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Wormwood: An Herb of Contradictions—Benefits, Risks, and Responsible Use
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Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is a plant that has walked the line between healing and harm for centuries. Revered for its bitter taste and medicinal potency, yet feared for its toxicity in excess, wormwood is one of the most paradoxical herbs in the apothecary. Its name evokes both ancient herbal wisdom and the infamous liquor absinthe—a beverage once banned for its supposed hallucinogenic properties. But beneath the myths and mysteries lies a plant with powerful therapeutic potential when used responsibly.
In modern herbalism, wormwood is experiencing a resurgence of interest for its roles in digestive health, parasite cleansing, and antimicrobial defense. At the same time, questions remain about its safety—particularly due to the presence of thujone, a compound linked to neurological effects. This article takes a balanced look at wormwood’s benefits, risks, and responsible usage, separating fact from folklore to help you make informed decisions about this compelling botanical.