Field Southernwood

Artemisia campestris

Physical Characteristics

Artemisia campestris is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from August to September, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Temperate regions throughout the northern hemisphere, including Britain.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Seeds are occasionally eaten, e.g., Kayenta Navajo used seeds (subsp. pacifica) in mush. Rare reports elsewhere suggest limited safety. Leaves and other parts are inedible due to thujone [2-3].

Medicinal Uses

Abortifacient Anthelmintic Antiseptic Cholagogue Deobstruent Eczema Emmenagogue Ophthalmic Poultice Stomachic Tonic Related to the southernwood, A. abrotanum, this species has similar though milder medicinal properties[4]. The herb is anthelmintic, antiseptic, cholagogue, deobstruent, emmenagogue, stomachic and tonic[4, 7, 165]. The main use of this herb is as an emmenagogue, it is also a good stimulant tonic and has some nervine principle[4]. The leaves have been chewed in order to treat stomach problems[257]. The plant was used by some native North American Indian tribes as an abortifacient to terminate difficult pregnancies[257]. Externally, the plant has been crushed and applied to rheumatic joints, eczema, bruises and sores[257]. A poultice of the crushed leaves has been applied to sore eyes[257]. An infusion of the roots has been used, especially on children, as a hair tonic and to treat scalp infections[257]. It has been taken internally to promote urination and bowel movements[257].

Known Hazards

Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, skin contact with some members of this genus can cause dermatitis or other allergic reactions in some people[222].