Wormwood - Artemisia absinthium

Wormwood is the main ingredient of the legendary drink absinthe, which was invented in 1792 by a French doctor. Intended as a medicine, it became very popular as a recreational drink. The effects are narcotic and mildly hallucinogenic. *

Usage

Soak 1 teaspoon in a cup of hot but not boiling water. The tea has a bitter taste, which can hardly be avoided. You can mix it with peppermint leaves or anise.

To make absinthe, soak 40 grams (1½ oz.) of wormwood for a couple of weeks in ½ liter of liquor. After sifting it, the drink is ready for use. Take one small glass at first and wait for the effects before taking more.

Warning

In high dosages Wormwood is poisonous. Long and intensive use can lead to addiction, as well as physical and mental harm. High dosages can give nervousness, restlessness, cramps, headaches and dizziness. An overdose may manifest as unconsciousness, coma and death. After making absinthe, first try one small glass and wait about an hour for the effects. Try it again at another opportunity. Better to dose too little with no effects at all than to take too much, poisoning yourself or making yourself feel sick. Do not drive motorized vehicles while under the influence of wormwood.