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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for the efficacy of any herb nor for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Additionally, some of these plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals who have the means to process them properly into appropriate pharmaceuticals. One final note: many plants were used for a wide range of illnesses in the past, but be aware that many of the historical uses have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.


SOUTHERNWOOD
a.k.a Lad's Love
(Artemisia abrotanum)
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PROPAGATION: By cuttings taken in June or July or by taking a slip with a heel. Perennial shrub. The variety called Tangerine Southernwood (A. abrotanum. cv) is useful in moth repellant sachets and in citrus potpourri. Also an important landscape shrub.
NEEDS: Full sun and average well-drained soil. Prune in spring to keep in good shape.
HARVEST: As needed.

USES

MEDICINAL:
Infusion of the leaves considered tonic and a mild sedative.
Contains a disinfecting oil.
Used formerly to expel intestinal worms (due to the presence of absinthol).

COSMETIC:
A decoction of southernwood and barley used as a wash for acne.
In the herbal bath it is used for fragrance and said to be soothing.
An infusion of the leaves used for a hair rinse.

CRAFTS:
The dried leaves used in moth repellant sachets. Provides a good base for wreaths and herb baskets. Used in herb and flower arrangements.

DYE:
Branches produce yellow.

INSECTS:
Repels cabbage moth and fruit tree moth. Dried leaves repel moths.
A moth repellant sachet which can be hung on a hanger = 1 Tbsp dried southernwood, 1 tsp crushed cinnamon stick. Mix and fill 2" squares or triangles of fabric and attach to coat hangers with a ribbon.

LANGUAGE:
Constancy



©2001 by Ernestina Parziale, CH

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