Southernwood: characteristics, care, and complete medicinal properties

What is southernwood? Names and origin

The male southernwood, scientifically known as Artemisia abrotanum, is a perennial plant of the family Asteraceae (formerly Compositae) widely appreciated for its medicinal properties and ornamental. This shrub is native to temperate regions of southern Europe, especially in parts of Italy and Spain, although its wild presence is currently rare and it is usually found mainly in orchards and home gardens.

• Common names in Spanish: southernwood, southernwood, alsuila, green balsam, boxwood, brótano, womanizer's broom, ether, ether herb, tansy, wormwood, mamecas, matocas, mesariegas, thyme of head, dog thyme, male tansy.
• In Catalan: broida
• In Galician: southernwood
• In Basque: to be cautious
• Botanical synonyms: Artemisia elatior, Artemisia herbacea, Artemisia paniculata, Artemisia procera, Artemisia anethifolia, among others.

The name of the genus, Artemisia, is related to the greek goddess Artemis, protector and healer, or Artemisia II, queen of Caria, renowned for her knowledge of botany and medicine.

Botanical description of southernwood

The male southernwood It is a bush of vigorous growth which can reach heights between 50 and 130 cm. Its stem is semi-woody, erect and branched. Leaves They are light green to greyish, very divided, fine, pinnate and covered with a light hairiness, which gives them a soft texture to the touch and an intense aroma, similar to that of wormwood.

During the flowering season, the plant produces small tubular yellow flowers, which are grouped in hanging inflorescences or terminal racemes. Flowering usually occurs during the warm season, especially during the summer. The flowers exude a citrusy, bitter aroma, with a hint reminiscent of lemon.

The roots They are fibrous and deep, which helps the plant to resist periods of drought and facilitates its growth. adaptation in light and sandy soils.

Habitat and distribution

The ideal habitat of the male southernwood These are the temperate and warm regions of southern Europe, although it can be easily cultivated elsewhere provided certain soil and climate conditions are respected. It prefers light, calcareous, and well-drained soils and requires generous sunlight to develop and flower at its best.

Due to overexploitation and reduction of its natural habitatsNowadays, it's rare to find it growing wild. It's often found as a cultivated plant in herb gardens, home vegetable plots, and small ornamental spaces, where it's appreciated for its appearance as well as its medicinal and culinary uses.

History and traditional uses

The male southernwood has enjoyed reputation in Europe as a medicinal plant since ancient times. It is already mentioned in classical texts and in the Capitular of Villis, a document by Charlemagne that ordered the cultivation of numerous useful plants, including this species.

Traditionally, the plant has been valued as natural repellent from moths and other household insects, taking advantage of their aromatic essential oils to protect clothing and fabrics. Hence the French nickname wardrobeIt has also been used in popular rituals to ward off evil spirits and as a protective plant in the home.

Chemical composition and active ingredients

El southernwood contains one rich variety of active components that give it its medicinal properties. Among the most important are:

• Essential oil (0,2-0,4%): Contains thujone and absinthe, which have aromatic and medicinal properties. Thujone can be toxic in high amounts, so consumption should be moderate and controlled.
• Coumarin compounds: isofraxidine, umbelliferone and scopoletol, with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action.
• Polyphenolic acids: caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, both with antioxidant and cell protective activity.
• Alkaloids (2-3%): including abrotin, a principle that acts similarly to quinine and contributes to its antiparasitic properties.
• Flavonoids: responsible for its antispasmodic and antioxidant action.
• Salicylic acid, coumarins and flavonols: which contribute especially to the beneficial effects on skin and scalp.
• Bitter beginnings, which stimulate digestion and appetite.

Used parts and collection

The parts of the plant most used for medicinal purposes are: flowering tops and stems with leavesHarvesting is preferably carried out in summer, coinciding with the peak concentration of active ingredients in the branches and flowers.

For use in phytotherapy and product production, they are dried in the shade and stored in airtight containers to prevent the loss of the essential oil's volatile compounds.

Medicinal properties of male abrótano

The male southernwood It is one of the most valued traditional plants for its range of benefits. therapeutic applicationsIts uses range from internal treatments to topical applications. Its main medicinal properties are detailed below. It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use:

1. Digestive stimulant and bitter tonic:
   • Southernwood helps improve digestion, stimulate appetite, and relieve digestive discomfort such as dyspepsia, indigestion, mild gastritis, or occasional constipation.
   • Its bitter principles and essential oils stimulate the secretion of gastric juices and facilitate intestinal transit.
2. Antiparasitic and anthelmintic:
   • It is popularly used to combat intestinal parasites such as roundworms and other helminths. Its active ingredients cause contractions in the parasites' muscles, detaching them from the intestinal mucosa.
   • Useful in cases of ascariasis, pinworm disease, taeniasis, toxocariasis or trichuriasis.
3. Choleretic and hepatoprotective:
   • It increases the production and evacuation of bile, making it useful as an adjuvant in liver disorders and in liver and gallbladder cleansing processes.
4. Antispasmodic:
   • The flavonoids present help relax smooth muscles, allowing it to be used as a natural remedy for cramps, gastrointestinal spasms, and mild menstrual pain.
5. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic:
   • It relieves minor inflammation and rheumatic muscle discomfort thanks to its coumarin content and other active compounds.
6. Immune system stimulant:
   • It is attributed positive effects on the body's defenses, contributing to resistance to infections.
7. General tonic and emmenagogue:
   • It has been traditionally used as a general restorative and regulator of menstrual cycles.
8. External use: healing and insect repellent:
   • Southernwood decoctions and ointments have been used to treat wounds, seborrheic dermatitis, and alopecia, thanks to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and hair-growth-stimulating effects.
   • The plant's aroma repels moths and other insects, acting as a natural repellent on clothing and in domestic environments.

Folk medicine has also recognized its usefulness in improving blood circulation, as a relaxant in stressful situations, and even as a hair tonic to strengthen hair and prevent hair loss. Its use should be moderate and supervised if in doubt.

Cosmetic and hair uses

El southernwood has a long tradition as hair tonicIts decoction is used to strengthen hair, stimulate growth, and prevent hair loss, making it an ally in the fight against alopecia. Its use has been recommended in healthcare centers and among home remedies, especially after situations such as chemotherapy.

In addition, southernwood extract, rich in antioxidants and flavonols, can be applied directly to the scalp to:

• Microexfoliate and cleanse the scalp, allowing the pores to oxygenate and free themselves of impurities.
• Stimulate peripheral microcirculation, promoting the supply of nutrients to the hair bulb and improving hair growth.
• Protect the skin of the scalp against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, helping to prevent premature aging and promoting collagen production.
• Reduce seborrheic dermatitis and other skin conditions of the scalp.

For cosmetic use, it is recommended to add southernwood extract to hair lotions or shampoos. It can be combined with essential oils of rosemary, mint, or wheat germ to enhance its strengthening and revitalizing effects.

Example of preparation of anti-hair loss lotion

• Hair base: 180 ml
• Southernwood extract: 11 ml
• Wheat germ oil: 11 ml
• Rosemary essential oil: 11 ml (equivalent to about 40-50 drops)

Mix all ingredients, shake well, and apply with a gentle massage to the scalp before washing your hair regularly.

Warning: This type of preparation is recommended for external use only. If hair loss persists, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or medical professional to rule out nutritional deficiencies or underlying conditions.

Other uses of southernwood

• Natural insect repellent: Its intense fragrance is very effective at repelling moths from closets and closed spaces. Traditionally, its dried branches have been placed in closets to protect clothing.
• Limited culinary use: In some regions, the young leaves have been used in small quantities to flavor dishes and liqueurs, although caution is advised due to the thujone content.
• Ornamental applications: It is a highly valued plant in dry or Mediterranean gardens, both for its appearance and its aroma and ease of cultivation.

How to prepare and consume southernwood

Traditional ways of using southernwood These are usually infusions, decoctions, or topical applications. It is essential to follow the recommended doses and limit the frequency to avoid side effects.

• Infusion: Add a tablespoon of the dried plant to a cup of boiling water, let it steep for 5 minutes, and strain. It can be consumed hot to benefit from its digestive and antiparasitic properties.
• Decoction for external use: Prepare a more concentrated decoction to apply to wounds, scalp, or as a strengthening lotion.
• Ointments and oils: Oily extracts of southernwood can be applied to treat skin discomfort and mild muscle pain.

For digestive or antiparasitic treatment, internal use should be done under the supervision of a specialist. Prolonged use or very high doses could cause headaches or dizziness.

Care and cultivation at home

Southernwood is not only valuable for its properties, but it is very easy to grow in orchards and gardens.

• Substratum: Prefer light, loose, calcareous soils with good drainageAvoid flooded ground.
• Solar exposition: Full sun, although it tolerates semi-shade.
• Irrigation: Moderate and spaced. It tolerates some drought, but appreciates regular watering during the warmer months.
• Pruning: After flowering, prune lightly to encourage regrowth and maintain the bushy shape.
• Multiplication: It is easily done by cuttings in spring or by dividing clumps.
• Pest protection: It is a hardy plant that rarely suffers from pests or diseases thanks to its repellent essential oil content.

Southernwood is ideal as a border plant, in aromatic gardens, or even as a potted plant if provided with sufficient sunlight and a well-aerated substrate.

Precautions and contraindications

Despite its recognized virtues, southernwood should be used with caution:

• Contains thujone, a neurotoxic compound at high doses. Therefore, It should not be consumed in large quantities or continuously. You can check More information on medicinal uses of aromatic plants to expand knowledge.
• Its use is contraindicated in pregnant women, breastfeeding women, young children and people with neurological or liver pathologies.
• Any medicinal use should be supervised by an experienced healthcare professional or herbalist, especially in people who are taking multiple medications or have chronic illnesses.
• In case of skin irritation, discontinue topical use and consult a specialist.
• The plant can cause gastric discomfort, headaches or dizziness if the recommended dose is exceeded.

Do not use as a substitute for a balanced diet or prescribed medical treatments.