Wormwood, Tilesius' wormwood

Artemisia tilesii

Physical Characteristics

Artemisia tilesii is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, 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

E. Asia to North-western N. America.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Edible Uses: Condiment The leaves are used for flavouring rice dumplings[177]. The raw shoots are peeled and eaten, usually with oil[257].

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Antirheumatic Antitumor Disinfectant Haemostatic Laxative Poultice Skin Stomachic Tonic The plant is antirheumatic, antitumor, disinfectant, febrifuge, haemostatic, laxative and tonic[257]. It is used in the treatment of cancer and to prevent infections in wounds etc[257]. An infusion of the leaves and flowering tops is used as a laxative and to treat stomach aches[257]. An infusion is used internally to treat rheumatism and is also applied externally to swollen joints[257]. A poultice of the leaves is applied to skin infections and to cuts to stop the bleeding[257]. A decoction is used as an eyewash[257]. The plant has properties similar to codeine[238]. The report does not specify which part of the plant is used[K]. Codeine is used as a painkiller.

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].