WORMWOOD

Ancient addictive bitter herb
Purifying medicine of space and wound
Sacred herb for the Goddess of the Hunt
Bring on visions as incense burned
Witches plant of immortality
Connections with spirit do abound

Wormwood is a temperate species of Artemisia
(Artemisia absenthium) that originated in Eurasia, the Middle East, and North Africa.  It was introduced into North America in the early 1800's for medicinal use.  By 1841, it had become naturalized in the U.S. and Canada.  It is often grown as an ornamental or a medicinal.  However, it is considered to be invasive in many areas of the U.S.

This relative of Sweet Annie and prairie sage is traditionally used in addictive and bitter liqueurs and in a number of medicines.  Although it is often taken internally, it is not considered to be a safe herb for consumption.  It should only be consumed with caution and with the advice of an herbalist or medical practitioner.  It is considered to be safe to use topically for minor wounds, irritations, and infections.  Farmers and animal care takers love this herb for the control of parasites.

All Artemisias, and especially wormwood, are considered to be sacred to Artemis.  It is believed that this Goddess of the Hunt used it as she protected the forest and the children.  It has been used as an incense to encourage altered states and psychic visions.  It has always been associated with  The Goddess, the moon, and powerful women.  Some consider this to be The Witches Plant and in Greece, it was considered to be a plant of immortality.

This highly energetic plant has ancient use as a connection to spirit and higher consciousness.  It was used for divination, clairvoyance, and protection.  It was believed to purify both the space and the body when it was burned as an incense.  Some have used it in spells for love, wealth, and protection.  Wormwood is used to neutralize harmful energies and if you put a pinch in the doorway, it is believed to bring abundance to the house.

Wormwood has been used by cultures from ancient China, to the Mediterranean, to Europe for its spiritual and magical feel.  According to the I-Ching, Artemisia is used to find direction and purpose.  It is believed to encourage good debate and persuasion.  It may also help you take advice from knowledgeable people.  Wormwood is an herb of empowerment and being able to see other viewpoints, self-expression and listening, Inspired creativity and will power.

Wormwood is a highly useful and energetic herb.  However, it can be invasive.  It is both medicinal and toxic.  This is an herb to be honored and respected.

Other sources for this article:
verywellhealth.com
webmd.com
crystalvaults.com
​magickalspot.com