close relative of mugwort, coming from the same botanical family. It grows wild in many parts of the USA, and can keep insects out of a garden. Wormwood has an extremely bitter taste, but is sometimes used in the place of hops in beer brewing. It gets its name from its reputed ability to cure intestinal worms, which was its primary medicinal use in the past. Wormwood is best known for its role in the making of absinthe, an alcoholic drink popular in the mid-1800s. Most people look at absinthe as some kind of mystical elixir, but it was simply a cocktail. It was extremely strong, addictive and could cause hallucinations. Though absinthe is not a banned substance in the USA, it is not sold in liquor stores either.
Latin: Artemisia absinthium
Common Names: Absinthe, Old Man, Ajenjo, Artemisia, Green Ginger, Sweet Annie
For most magikcal purposes, the berries are the typical part of the plant used. Though you can make a cleansing incense from the herbal parts as well. The berries also have cleansing or purifying properties, and can protect from negative energy. You can also use juniper berries to help you attract a mate. When used for love, the dried berries are often strung together to make a charm.
As a close cousin, wormwood shares many of the same qualities as mugwort. If wormwood can't be found, you can substitute mugwort in its place. As with mugwort, you shouldn't use any wormwood products (oils or teas) internally.
Wormwood is used to enhance psychic abilities, divination, astral work and any rituals involving the spirit world. If you burn wormwood as an incense, make sure the room is well ventilated. Dried wormwood can protect your home as well.
According to old folk tales, burning wormwood and sandalwood in a cemetary would enable you to speak to the dead. Also, a charm of dried wormwood will protect you from sea serpents (in case that's a problem in your life).
In ancient Egyptian writings, wormwood was sometimes referred to as "Blood of Hephaistos".
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Associated Deities: Artemis Herb Index
