Wormwood
Latin: Paeonia Lactiflora
Parts used: Aerial parts
Flavors: Bitter, pungent
Energetics: Warming, drying
Actions: Bitter tonic, carminative, antimicrobial, anthelmintic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue
Affinities: Digestive system, liver, gallbladder,
Wormwood is primarily valued as a potent bitter tonic that stimulates the digestive and biliary systems in Western Herbalism. This herb is commonly used to ease indigestion, gas, and bloating due to its compounds that trigger taste receptors, signaling the stomach, pancreas, and liver to increase the secretion of gastric juices and digestive enzymes. Wormwood has an affinity for the gallbladder and liver, promoting bile production and helping the body break down fats and clear metabolic waste. It contains flavonoids, phenols, and sesquiterpene lactones that help combat oxidative stress and moderate the inflammatory response. Wormwood has traditionally been used in combination with Black Walnut to help expel parasites.
