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African Wormwood - Artemisia afra
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The herb is used in many different ways including being
 smoked,
 snuffed,
 drunk as a tea,
 body washes and lotions.
 Also used for earache and toothache.
The painkilling and relaxing properties can be of real value in today's stressful society.
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The genus name Artemisia honours Artemis, the Greek goddess of hunting.
Another interesting link to the name is Artemisia, the wife of the Greek/Persian King Mausolus, who ruled after his death in 353 BC. In his honour she built a magnificent tomb called the Mausoleum, known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. She was also a famous botanical and medical researcher. The species name afra means from Africa.
World-wide there are about 400 species of Artemisia, mainly from the northern hemisphere.
Artemisia vulgaris is commonly known as mugwort, and is described as 'a condiment with magical properties'.
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Bio-activity :
 Narcotic analgesic effects have been indicated in preliminary pharmaceutical tests.
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Chemical constituents :
 Thujone is found in the aerial parts.
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Contra-indications :
 Thujone isomers are reported to be abortifacient and emmenagogic and the use of this herb during pregnancy is not recommended. Traditional healers and herbalists confirm this view.
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