Maria Treben considers that bitter plants are gold for the liver and stomach, being indispensable in digestive and hepatic issues. Among them, wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) holds a central place in her recommendations. In the form of tea or tincture, wormwood stimulates digestion, revitalizes the liver, and combats bloating.
What Maria Treben said:
A tea of wormwood, taken from time to time, supports the stomach and liver. It is a plant that must be used in moderation, but with great effects.
Maria Treben, Health from the Pharmacy of the Lord
Original recipe from the book
Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon dried, crushed wormwood
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250 ml boiling water
Preparation method:
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Pour boiling water over the wormwood.
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Let it steep for 30 seconds to a maximum of 1 minute.
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Strain immediately.
Administration method:
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Drink a small cup (no more than 100 ml) in the morning, on an empty stomach.
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The treatment lasts for only 2 weeks, followed by a break.
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Maria Treben recommends using it only 2 times a year (in spring and autumn) as a treatment to strengthen the liver and stomach.
Explained benefits
Wormwood:
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Contains absinthin and sesquiterpene lactones, with choleretic (stimulates bile secretion) and stomachic (activates digestion) effects.
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Combats the sensation of a full, heavy stomach, abdominal cramps, and bloating.
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Revitalizes a tired liver after fatty meals or alcohol consumption.
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It is also used for intestinal parasites (traditionally).
What do modern studies say?
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Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2012): wormwood extract stimulates gastric secretion and has antibacterial effects on Helicobacter pylori.
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Phytomedicine (2014): bitter compounds from wormwood protect the liver and support the regeneration of liver cells.
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Planta Medica (2010): wormwood has confirmed antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Contraindications
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Should not be administered in large doses or for long periods (risk of gastric irritation and neurotoxic effects).
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Contraindicated for pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding.
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People with gastric or duodenal ulcers should avoid wormwood.
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Should not be combined with alcohol or sedatives.
Sources:
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Maria Treben: Health from the Pharmacy of the Lord
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Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Artemisia absinthium: stomachic and antimicrobial properties
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Phytomedicine, Hepatoprotective role of bitter compounds from Artemisia absinthium
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Planta Medica, Pharmacological profile of wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
