Artemisia absinthium
What do Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso have in common besides their incredible painting skills? Both artists shared a love for absinthe, a liqueur made from wormwood. Yet this herb isn’t just used for making a special drink.
Wormwood
The origin of the word Artemisia most likely comes from the Greek goddess Artemis, while absinthium derives from the ancient Greek (or borrowed from the ancient Persian language) word ἀψíθιoν (absinthion). In Dutch, however, the herb is also simply known as “alsem” or “wormwood.” Wormwood was the main ingredient in absinthe, a liqueur that was banned until recently, the consumption of which was associated with side effects such as hallucinations and dizziness.
Steep one teaspoon of the herb in a cup of hot but not boiling water. The tea has a very bitter taste, which is hard to mask. You can, however, add some peppermint leaves or anise to the tea.
To make absinthe, steep 40 grams of wormwood in half a liter of spirits for several weeks. After straining it, this potent drink is ready to serve. Start with a small glass and wait to see how it affects you before having more.
Warning
In high doses, wormwood is toxic. Frequent and prolonged use of wormwood can lead to addiction, as well as physical and mental decline. High doses can cause nervousness, restlessness, cramps, headaches, and dizziness. An overdose can result in unconsciousness, coma, and death. Once you’ve made the absinthe, start with a small glass and wait an hour to see how it affects you. If needed, take a higher dose at a later time. It is better to take too little and feel nothing than to risk poisoning yourself or getting sick. Driving is strongly discouraged while under the influence of wormwood.
Additional Information
A healthy lifestyle is important, as is a varied, balanced diet, for which dietary supplements are not a substitute. Keep out of reach of young children. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Store in a cool, dry, and dark place. If you have medical complications, are taking medication, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or a specialist before use. Stop use immediately if you experience any unwanted side effects from this product.
The health effects listed above have not yet been officially established.
