Artemisia

Overview

Artemisia is a large, diverse genus of plants with between 200 and 400 species belonging to the daisy family Asteraceae. Common names for various species in the genus include mugwort, wormwood, and sagebrush. Artemisia comprises hardy herbaceous plants and shrubs, which are known for the powerful chemical constituents in their essential oils. Artemisia species are used for medicinal purposes, as culinary herbs, and as ornamental plants, owing to their feathery, silver-grey foliage.

Etymology

The genus name is derived from the Greek goddess Artemis, who was the goddess of the hunt, wilderness, wild animals, and childbirth. The name is thought to have been given because of the plants' ability to aid in health issues related to childbirth and women's health. The common names of many species, such as wormwood or mugwort, refer to their medicinal uses.

Description

Artemisia species grow in temperate climates of both hemispheres, usually in dry or semi-dry habitats. Notable species include Artemisia dracunculus, the dragon wormwood, a species native to Siberia and the principal ingredient in the alcoholic beverage absinthe. Another well-known species is Artemisia annua, the sweet wormwood, a species native to Asia and the source of the anti-malarial drug artemisinin.

A close-up view of Artemisia plant with its feathery, silver-grey foliage

Cultivation and Uses

Artemisia species are used as food plants by the larvae of a number of Lepidoptera species. Some species, such as Artemisia vulgaris, are invasive, and their spread is difficult to control due to their extensive underground root systems. Artemisia species are prized for their aromatic leaves. They are used in liqueurs, perfumes, and soaps, and as flavorings for foods.

Medicinal Uses

Artemisia has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Artemisia absinthium, or wormwood, is used to make the highly potent spirits absinthe and vermouth. Artemisia annua is used to produce the anti-malarial drug artemisinin. Artemisia species are also used in traditional Chinese, European, and Native American medicines.

Species

There are between 200 and 400 species within the Artemisia genus. Some of the more well-known species include Artemisia dracunculus, Artemisia annua, Artemisia absinthium, and Artemisia vulgaris. Each species has its own unique characteristics and uses, from culinary to medicinal.