Chamomile Tea

The basis of our Artemisia tea is the herb Artemisia Absinthium, also known as sweet wormwood and mugwort, native to parts of Europe, western Asia and northern Africa. Sacred to many cultures around the world, it is believed to have been named after Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, protector of wildlife, wild animals, the moon and chastity, an embodiment of Mother Earth (known to the Romans as Diana). However, it is now believed that it may be named after Queen Artemisia of Caria (Halicarnassus), a renowned Turkish botanist from around 400 BC. Wormwood is believed to be one of the earliest plants cultivated by humans and has a long history of ritual practices, believed to ward off demons and used in love potions. It is said to have been used as an antidote for hemlock poisoning and to treat “sea dragon bites”. The Ebers Papyrus shows that the ancient Egyptians used the herb as an antiseptic, tonic and stimulant, as well as a remedy for fevers and menstrual pain. Priests of the Egyptian goddess Isis used it in place of olive branches, as described by Dioscorides, a first-century herbalist.

In traditional herbalism, the plant has long been used for a variety of gastrointestinal ailments, as a pain reliever and to rid the body of internal parasites. It was once called the “ultimate cure for all ills”. Artemisia absenthium is the main ingredient in the liqueur absinthe, which originally gained popularity as a tonic and was eventually mass-produced as an alcoholic beverage, and is also used to flavor other spirits and wines, including vermouth.

Artemisia contains B vitamins and vitamin C, as well as manganese, calcium, potassium, sodium, silicon, cobalt, and tin. Plus beta-carotene, bitter sesquiterpenoid lactones, flavonoids, other bittering compounds, azulenes, phenolic acids, tannins and lignans, terpenoids (especially thujone), phenylpropanoids, aliphatic, polyphenolic, and flavonoid compounds. It is these compounds that are responsible for the biological activity, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiprotozoal, antibacterial, antifungal, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, cytotoxic, analgesic, neuroprotective, procognitive, antidepressant, neurotrophic, cell membrane stabilizing and antioxidant activity, as confirmed by pharmacological studies designed to support traditional use. It is also known to have antiviral, diaphoretic, expectorant, decongestant, insect repellent/insecticide, muscle relaxant and stimulant properties. The main active ingredient in Artemisia is thujone, which has many health benefits, including blocking the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid, which has a calming effect on the central nervous system. So, sip a warming cup of Artemisia tea to calm down and reap the benefits of this special herb.

Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammation

Inflammation is a common response to inflammatory stress, which can lead to chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and a weakened immune system. Debilitating pain can also seriously disrupt daily life, making it difficult to sleep, work, play, and simply enjoy life in general. Artemisia has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, and clinical trials have confirmed the potential of this herb to address these issues. It contains a compound called artemisinin, a bioactive compound exclusive to certain species of Artemisia that inhibits the immune system from producing proteins called cytokines that cause inflammation. While inflammation is part of the natural healing system, low-level inflammation is key to all chronic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, and dementia. Artemisia also contains other compounds, azulenes, with powerful, proven anti-inflammatory effects. So people with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, joint pain or inflammation may find it helpful to add Artemisia tea to their diet. Researchers have found that arthritis sufferers report significant pain relief, and that it may be more effective and safer than traditional pharmaceutical alternatives. There have been many studies on the effects of Artemisia on Crohn’s disease, and the results have been astounding. All studies found a reduction in symptoms, and only 10% in one study (zero in the others) developed new symptoms, although overall symptoms did improve. Despite this, all were able to either reduce or eliminate steroid use. Some have even been reported to have “near remission” of this debilitating disease. It has also been shown to improve mood and have a positive impact on quality of life, something that is lacking in other Crohn’s disease treatments.

Detox and Protect the Body

Artemisia contains an extremely powerful compound called chamazulene, which acts as an antioxidant, helping to rid the body of harmful free radicals and fight oxidative stress to protect against protein, DNA and lipid damage, as well as some chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s and a weakened immune system. Meanwhile, the vitamins and nutrients in the tea will strengthen the body’s own immune system, preparing it to fight off common infections, viruses and illnesses. Early research has shown that it may be of great help to those suffering from Berger’s disease (IgA nephropathy), a kidney disorder, as it has been shown to reduce blood pressure and protein levels in the urine. Artemisia is also a good remedy for liver and gallbladder problems. Animal tests have shown that it reduces liver damage by reducing oxidation and suppressing inflammation. The bitter substances in it also stimulate gallbladder function. Studies have also shown that the bioactive compound artemisinin can fight certain cancer cells, similar to how it eliminates Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for malaria. Preliminary studies have also shown that it reduces blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties

Studies have shown that Artemisia is effective against a range of bacteria, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus. It also inhibited the growth of Naegleria fowleri, the organism that causes primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), a brain infection that destroys brain tissue. Artemisia also exhibits similar properties to fungi and inhibits the growth of Candida albikans (thrush). Artemisia, a bioactive compound unique to certain species of Artemisia, is already a standard treatment for the parasite Plasmodium falciparum, which causes malaria. The tea is already a known opponent of SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), which may be a precursor to CPK, and research has shown it to be as effective as the well-known pharmaceutical drug rifaximin, but without the side effects often associated with rifaximin. Antiviral and antibacterial, this tea is also an ideal drink for those suffering from chest and sinus congestion, as well as colds, flu, bronchitis or asthma. It is also believed to be effective against staph infections, more commonly known as strep throat. Artemisia acts as an expectorant and decongestant, thinning mucus in the throat and respiratory system and allowing it to be expelled, as well as reducing pain. Muscle relaxant and anti-inflammatory properties relax the trachea, protecting the throat from coughing and irritation. Artemisia is also known to stimulate sweating, thus cooling the body, which can be useful when you have a cold or virus. Antioxidants allow white blood cells to move around the body faster to fight infection, while vitamins and nutrients boost the immune system. Meanwhile, for treating seasonal allergies, the anti-inflammatory properties will also help with nasal congestion and itchy throat, thereby relieving the symptoms of hay fever. Asthma sufferers will benefit from the relaxing properties, relieving congestion and bronchial constriction. Artemisia has been used throughout the ages to treat intestinal parasites, hence its other popular name, wormwood. Studies have shown that it causes paralysis and death of parasites, which is due to the thujone found in the herb. One study went so far as to say that it eliminates parasites as effectively as any known anti-parasitic drug.

Digestion

Artemisia tea is particularly effective as a digestive aid and is highly recommended before heavy meals to prevent gas and bloating. As a bitter herb, it stimulates the taste buds and promotes salivation, stomach acid production, and bowel movement. It also stimulates the liver and gallbladder, promoting the release of bile from the liver and its storage in the gallbladder, making the digestion process more efficient. Indigestion (gas, bloating, heartburn) is often the result of low stomach acid. By stimulating the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, it optimizes the intestinal flora while killing organisms such as Helicobacter Pylori, which, if left untreated, can cause duodenal ulcers. Tea can also help relieve stomach cramps and eliminate any bacteria that may be causing an upset stomach. Since 70% of the immune system is located in the digestive tract, it is especially important for overall health that it functions properly. Proper digestion also ensures that you are getting optimal nutrition from your food, which will also improve your overall health.

Making Artemisia Tea

Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of Artemisia to a cup of nearly boiling water and let steep for 5-15 minutes. You can add it to other teas, such as mint and anise, for a more intense flavor. Or try adding a squeeze of lemon. You can add sugar or honey if needed.

Caution

Not recommended during pregnancy, nursing mothers, people with epilepsy or taking blood thinners such as warfarin.