Wormwood
Artemisia absinthium
Our wormwood is grown here on the farm. This herb is one of my current favorites! The plants are quite hardy and very fragrant. We harvest it during a full moon, when it is in full bloom, for peak potentcy. The harvested branches are hung in an airy barn to dry naturally. The dried herb is hand crumbled and then put into storage in a climate controlled, dark environment. This allows us to keep the batch smaller and fresher and made up of the leaves, flowers and smallest stems. There are no large stems in our dried wormwood.
Wormwood has a rich history for medicinal, magical and houskeeping uses. The genus is named Artemisia after the greek goddess, Artemis. Artemis was considered the goddess of the moon, the herbalist, the midwife, the birthing woman, and the hunter. Artemisia absinthium is the most well-known member of this genus. It is the main ingredient in the mind-altering liquor absinthe, also known as "the Green Fairy" or "the Green Devil". This potent liquor stimulates mid-brain activity and increases creativity. It was banned in the US in 1912 (this may be changed in the near future) because it was believed that repeated use disturbs the central nervous system and could cause "madness". This reputation has been brought into question. Today one can find Absinthe in liquor stores but it is not the same liquor of old. The Absinthe sold today does not contain thujone, the primary chemical in wormwood that gives the liquor its psychedelic reputation.
Herbalists have historically used wormwood to treat dysentery, amoebas, and other parasitical infections. Wormwood is an effective vermifuge and has been commonly used to de-worm farm animals. This extremely bitter herb has been used to ease indigestion, improve liver function, and stimulate production of bile. In the home, wormwood was once used to keep pests out of furs and fiber goods. It would also be strewn on the floors to keep away pests.
Wormwood is said to be useful for enhancing psychic abilities, divination, astral work and rituals involving the spirit world. Try adding it to a dream pillow. If you decide to use wormwood as an incense, be sure to use a well-ventilated room or go outdoors as the smoke is considered poisonous. According to old folk tales, burning wormwood and sandalwood in a cemetery will enable you to speak to the dead. In addition, a charm of dried wormwood will protect you from sea serpents. Again...just in case...
WARNING!! Wormwood should NOT be used by pregnant or nursing women. Do your research before using this herb.