Herb: Russian Wormwood
Latin name: Artemisia gmelinii
Synonyms: Artemisia gmelini
Medicinal use of Russian Wormwood:The leaf and stem are used in Korea to treat hepatitis, hyperlipaemia and infected cholecystitis. The plant contains flavonoids, sesquiterpenes and other bio-active constituents, though no bio-activites have been recorded scientifically.
Description of the plant:
Habitat of the herb:Dry stony slopes, especially in Ladakh and Lahul, 2100 - 4200 metres. Hills, steppe, semidesert steppe, meadows, rocky slopes, scrub, dry floodlands, wastelands, 1500--4900 m.
Edible parts of Russian Wormwood:One report says that the plant is edible but gives no more details.
Other uses of the herb:The plant yields 1% essential oil, which contains 19% essential oil, 6% camphor.
Propagation of Russian Wormwood:Seed - surface sow from late winter to early summer in a greenhouse, making sure that the compost does not dry out. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer. Division in spring or autumn. Basal cuttings in late spring. Harvest the young shoots when about10 - 15cm long, pot up in a lightly shaded position in a greenhouse or cold frame and plant them out when well rooted. Very easy.
Cultivation of the herb:Dry stony slopes, especially in Ladakh and Lahul, 2100 - 4200 metres. Hills, steppe, semidesert steppe, meadows, rocky slopes, scrub, dry floodlands, wastelands, 1500--4900 m.
Known hazards of Artemisia gmelinii:Although no reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, skin contact with some members of this genus can cause dermatitis or other allergic reactions in some people.
Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.