Feast of Diana

Feast of Diana

With the recent passing of the Feast of Diana, I thought I’d like to look more at the family of plants named for her Greek counterpart, Artemis. Artemisia can be found from the kitchen cabinet, to the Herbalist, New Age stores and even your local bar.

One of the more notable plants, Artemisia absinthium is found flavoring Vermouth and is the most infamous ingredient in Absinthe. Many people then “demonize” wormwood and many Artemisias because of the notoriety of Absinthe and it’s hallucinogenic reputation. A. absinthium though, isn’t the only ingredient that has an effect in this particular brew. Many traditional recipes call for Anise as a flavoring aid. Anise also acts as a relaxant. This species of wormwood has also been known to induce “sensual feelings” according to the Book of Aphrodisiacs (Pg 104, Dr. Raymond Stark, 1980).

Artemisias of all species have been associated with sex, childbirth, reproductive issues and cleansing for as long as people have been documenting them.

Medicinals

• Artemisia keiskiana is associated with correcting sexual issues in men and women, potency issues in men and amenorrhea in women.(pg 11)

• A. abrotanum (Southern Wood) is said to be a mild aphrodisiac, emmenagouge (to induce menses), as well as to strengthen digestion (pg 89).

• A.vulgaris (Mugwort meaning “fly plant” because it repels bugs) has been suggested as another emmenagogue, but also as a herb to induce psychic dreams and visions. (pg 147) It’ s also said that if you hang a branch in the home it will protect the home from lightning, thieves, and evil. Carried in your shoe it is said to prevent fatigue and protect you in your travels.

• A. tridentata (Sage Brush, not to be confused with "White Sage") was used by Native tribes, both as a poultice to induce menses and burned after childbirth to cleanse the birthing area. Sage Brush was made into a “tea” to cure headaches, sore throats nausea, stomach aches, and to cleanse and heal external wounds.

• Artemisia dracunculus (Tarragon) is likely to be found in your kitchen or local produce section. It’s a mild sedative, good anti-bacterial wash for cuts and shallow scrapes as well as a good helper for Stomach ache, toothache (it numbs the tooth / mouth) and kills intestinal worms.

Decorative:
The shiny silvery leaves of these species can even show up as decorative borders in landscaping. Dusty Miller, Silver Queen, Desert Sage or Sage Brush and Powys Castle are all great in the decorative garden.

Maybe next year you all can join me in a toast to Artemis. Whether you
toast with Absinthe or your own herbal tea, we can all agree that these herbs dedicated to the Goddess of women, forests, hunting and the moon can add a lot to your garden, and your lives.