Wormwood tea (Artemisia absinthium) is a bitter yet extremely powerful remedy, used since ancient times to support digestion, eliminate intestinal parasites, and detoxify the body. However, the plant contains active substances that, under certain conditions, can become toxic to the nervous system and liver. Dr. Oana Cuzino, a primary care physician in gerontology and geriatrics, explained on the DOC.ro platform (July 2018) the correct usage recommendations, safe dosage, and limits that must be respected.
Preparation Method and Recommended Dosage
To prepare the tea:
- Use 1 tablespoon of dried plant (approximately 1.5 g).
- Add to 240 ml of hot water.
- Let it steep for 5 minutes, then strain.
- You can consume 1-2 cups per day, always in short courses.
It is essential not to exceed these amounts, and the tea should only be consumed for a limited time, in courses of maximum 24 weeks, followed by breaks.
Proven Benefits
1. Natural Digestive Stimulant
Dr. Cuzino mentions that wormwood is known for stimulating gastric, biliary, and pancreatic secretions. Wormwood tea helps reduce bloating and improves digestion after heavy meals or in cases of dyspepsia.
2. Antiparasitic Effect
Wormwood is used in antiparasitic treatments, especially against pinworms and roundworms. The bitter compounds and essential oils act on intestinal parasites, contributing to their elimination.
3. Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties
The plant contains flavonoids and compounds with antibacterial and antifungal effects, which help the body fight infections. Studies mentioned by Dr. Cuzino also suggest a potential antioxidant role, useful in protecting cells against oxidative stress.
4. Support for the Nervous System and Liver
In small and well-dosed amounts, wormwood can support liver functions and has a mild tonic effect on the nervous system. It is sometimes included in natural detox formulas and in treatments for sluggish liver.
Contraindications and Risks
The high content of thujone—a neurotoxic substance in large doses—makes wormwood not suitable for daily use. Dr. Cuzino warns of major risks in cases of excessive or uncontrolled use:
- Prohibited during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Contraindicated for individuals with epilepsy, neurological or liver diseases
- May cause nausea, dizziness, insomnia, seizures, or hallucinations in case of overdose
- Should not be taken concurrently with hepatotoxic or neuroactive medications
The duration of the treatment should not exceed 24 weeks, and a break between treatments is mandatory.
Other Forms of Administration
Wormwood Tincture: effective in small doses, but should only be administered with medical advice.
Wormwood Essential Oil: should NOT be taken internally, as it is extremely concentrated and toxic.
Wormwood Capsules (1 g): used for dyspepsia, but require strict adherence to dosage.
Wormwood tea is a valuable remedy, but it must be used with utmost caution. As Dr. Oana Cuzino emphasizes in her material published in July 2018, this plant is not intended for daily consumption, and dosage and treatment duration must be carefully monitored. The digestive and antiparasitic benefits are real, but the balance between efficacy and safety is essential.
Sources:
- DOC.ro Wormwood: effects, contraindications, methods of administration
