Organic Artemisia annua tea — Dried sweet wormwood, certified organic

Artemisia annua, known as sweet wormwood or annual mugwort, is an annual herbaceous plant of the Asteraceae family, native to Central Asia and now cultivated throughout the world. Used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine, it is now available from herbalists as dried leaves for preparing infusions. Herberry offers a version that is certified organic.

Botanical description

Artemisia annua is an annual plant that can reach 1 to 2 meters in height. Its very finely divided, bright green leaves release a characteristic intense, camphor-like aroma when crushed. The stems are ridged and slightly woody at the base. It blooms with small yellow flower heads grouped in panicles at the beginning of autumn.

The leaves and flowering tops are the parts used in traditional herbal medicine. They contain artemisinin, a compound that has been the subject of extensive scientific research, as well as flavonoids, essential oils (notably cineole and camphor), and sesquiterpenes.

Aromatic and flavor profile

Artemisia annua infusion has a powerful, camphor-like, and slightly aniseed aroma, characteristic of the Artemisia genus. On the palate, the flavor is highly aromatic, with distinct bitterness and a slight astringency. It is a herbal tea with a very assertive character that should be discovered gradually. A small amount is enough to obtain a flavorful infusion.

How to prepare the infusion

• Quantity: 1 small teaspoon (approx. 1 g) per cup — start with small amounts
• Water: simmering, about 85-90°C
• Infusion: 5 to 7 minutes, covered
• Filter carefully and enjoy warm
• Frequency: 1 cup per day, as an occasional course

Composition

Precautions for use

• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Not recommended for children and adolescents under 18
• Not recommended for people allergic to Asteraceae
• Do not use for self-medication for a diagnosed condition without prior medical advice
• If currently on medication, consult a doctor or pharmacist before use
• Short-term use recommended — do not consume continuously over long periods without medical advice
• Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet

FAQ

Is Herberry's Artemisia annua certified organic?

Yes, this sweet wormwood is certified organic, guaranteeing the absence of pesticides and synthetic chemical inputs.

What is the difference between Artemisia annua and Artemisia absinthium?

These are two distinct species of the Artemisia genus. Artemisia absinthium (common wormwood) is more bitter and contains thujone, a compound that is potentially toxic in high doses. Artemisia annua (sweet wormwood) has a different phytochemical profile, without significant levels of thujone.

How should I store my bag of Artemisia annua?

Keep away from light, heat, and humidity, in a dry place. The plant retains its aromas for several months in an airtight container.

Can Artemisia annua be used in cooking?

Its intense, camphor-like aroma makes it poorly suited for classic cooking. Its primary use remains infusion or decoction in traditional herbal medicine.

Discover other Herberry herbal teas: View the entire Herberry range