Wormwood extract is oil that is taken from the leaves and flowers of the wormwood shrub. It is mainly used as an herbal medicine to help lessen the symptoms of certain stomach conditions. Typically, wormwood extract is available in either a capsule or liquid form. The oil can also be used in making certain types of alcoholic beverages, and can be used as a flavoring agent in cooking.
The oil that is extracted from the wormwood shrub is fragrant and contains toxins. It is thought to stimulate digestive functions. Caraway and peppermint are usually combined with wormwood extract to treat heartburn or stomach problems. This combination is commonly referred to as wormwood tea.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and the uncomfortable symptoms that accompany it may be reduced by consuming wormwood extract. Stomach bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation might be relieved when the extract is used with other herbs. Parasitic infections can also cause similar symptoms to occur, but with these types of infections, nausea, intense pain in the abdomen, or bloody stools can also be seen. Wormwood extract can help to soothe the symptoms associated with these conditions.
Gall bladder and liver problems can also be reduced by using wormwood oil. There are agents or ingredients within the oil called anabsinthin and absinthin. They can aid in digestion and also promote healthy gallbladder and liver functions. People who suffer with gallbladder-related medical conditions can benefit by using wormwood oil along with doctor-prescribed pharmaceutical medications.
People can choose to use wormwood extract to reduce the symptoms of certain medical problems, but there is a lack of clinical trials to prove that it really works. There are also side effects associated with it. If used for a long period of time and if the recommended dose is exceeded, it is said to cause vertigo, nausea, or even seizures. The oil of wormwood is thought to be highly addictive and by using it consistently, it can cause brain damage or death. Wormwood oil typically should not be taken by women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.
When taken in small doses and for short periods of time, there are little to no side effects. Wormwood extract can be taken for as long as nine months if the dose does not exceed one milliliter and if it is used to promote a healthy digestive tract. A physician usually should be consulted before starting any herbal remedy routine.
