Southernwood (Artemisia abrotanum)

Southernwood (Artemisia abrotanum) is a medicinal herb grown as a strong seasoning with a taste reminiscent of wormwood. It is a medium-sized herb about a metre tall with long, narrow, branching leaves and a lemony scent. Its small yellow flowers open in July and August. The leaves and flowers are used fresh or dried and suit grilled meats, including fish, giving them a sharp taste. The leafy, flowering branches are picked in July and August, tied in small bunches and hung outdoors in the shade to dry well. It is propagated from cuttings in spring or autumn and planted in soil rich in humus, in a sunny spot (30 × 50 cm per plant), and watered regularly. The herb lives a long time but must be protected from frost by covering it with branches and straw.

Parts used medicinally: the flowering tops, and the tender leaves before flowering.

Active substances: an essential oil and abrotanin.

External use

For acne, cracked skin and scabies, and for skin and hair care: soak 60 g in a litre of water and use as a lotion or compress.
Southernwood ointment is used for chilblains on the toes and ears in winter. It is made by crushing the flowering branches and boiling them in animal fat. If the ointment burns, it is too strong and should be diluted with more fat. Instead of the ointment, compresses of diluted southernwood tincture (one part tincture to five parts boiled water) can be used, preferably together with the tincture taken by mouth (5 drops in a small cup of water three times a day). Applied daily for several weeks, the tincture also removes red patches from the skin and the redness of the nose seen in many heavy drinkers.

Internal use

For diarrhoea, haemorrhoids, inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes, varicose veins, inflamed veins, scanty or late periods, low urine output, urinary stones, gout, high blood pressure and menopausal complaints: steep a tablespoon in a cup of water and drink 3 cups a day.
Southernwood tincture is one of the most effective remedies for building up children: it improves their appetite, increases their weight and clears signs of weakness and illness. It also helps people recovering from a long illness. Give 3 to 4 drops of tincture in a spoonful of water three times a day for a few months.
This treatment also helps people with anaemia, chronic diarrhoea, tonsillitis and intestinal worms, continued until the symptoms have gone completely or no worms are found in the stool.