Identification

• Scientific Name: Artemisia afra
• Common Names: African wormwood, wild wormwood, umhlonyane (Xhosa), mhlonyane (Zulu), lengana (Tswana, Southern Sotho)
• Family: Asteraceae
• Parts Used: Leaves, stems, roots
• Extraction Method: Tincture (alcohol extraction)

Description

Artemisia afra is a perennial shrub native to Africa, growing up to 2 meters tall. It has ribbed, woody stems with finely divided, fern-like leaves that are dark green on top and covered with white hairs underneath. The plant produces small, creamy yellow flowers in late summer and autumn.

Chemical Composition

The main active compounds in A. afra include:

• α-thujone (52.9%)
• β-thujone (15.07%)
• 1,8-cineole (10.66%)
• Camphor (5.72%)
• Other minor components: germacrene, cadinene, α-terpineol, camphene, pinene, myrcene

Properties and Uses

African wormwood tincture is known for its:

• Antimicrobial and antifungal properties
• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Antioxidant activity
• Analgesic (pain-relieving) properties
• Sedative and CNS-acting activities

Common medicinal uses include:

• Treatment of respiratory conditions (coughs, colds, influenza, asthma)
• Digestive issues (colic, intestinal parasites)
• Fever and malaria
• Headaches and migraines
• Skin conditions (applied topically)
• Diabetes management
• Pain relief (rheumatism, arthritis)

Preparation and Dosage

While specific dosage guidelines for A. afra tincture are not provided in the search results, general recommendations for herbal tinctures suggest:

• 1-3 ml of tincture, taken 2-3 times daily, diluted in water
• Do not exceed 3g of dry herb equivalent daily

It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dosage advice.

Precautions and Side Effects

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Avoid use due to lack of safety information
• Kidney disorders: Use with caution as high doses may affect kidney function
• Allergies: Those allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family should avoid use
• Long-term use: Not recommended for periods exceeding 4 weeks without professional guidance
• Potential interactions with medications, especially those for epilepsy and heart conditions

Storage and Shelf Life

Store the tincture in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. When properly stored, tinctures generally have a shelf life of 2-5 years.

Conclusion

African wormwood (Artemisia afra) tincture is a potent herbal remedy with a wide range of traditional and potential medicinal uses. 

However, due to its potent nature and possible side effects, it should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, especially for long-term use or in combination with other medications.

Store in a cool, dry place, away from light. Keep tightly closed, away from the reach of Children and pets.

Do not exceed the daily dose.

This product is not intended to prevent or cure any form of illness or disease.
 

If you are pregnant or nursing ; If you have a medical condition or are in the course of medical treatment ; If you are programmed for theater/operation in the near future, please consult your healthcare practitioner before using this product.

This product cannot replace a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

This product has not been evaluated by the SAHPRA for its quality, safety or intended use.

For More Information please check our General Safety Herbal products Page