Powdered wormwood is the dried, ground herb Artemisia absinthium. It keeps more of the original plant compounds than extracts. Traditionally, people take it before meals to stimulate bile production, which helps digest food. The strong bitter taste can also spark appetite or relieve mild intestinal discomfort.
This herb contains thujone, a compound toxic to the nervous system in large amounts. Limit use to small doses. A typical amount is 200 to 500 mg per day, and only for short periods. Never take wormwood if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have epilepsy or liver disease.