Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Artemisia species, such as Artemisia absinthium (wormwood), Artemisia annua (sweet wormwood), and others, have a long history of use in traditional medicine systems—including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and various folk practices—for treating digestive ailments, including dysentery. Historical records from TCM describe preparations of Artemisia used to "clear heat" and "relieve toxicity," which are interpreted as managing infections and inflammatory conditions of the gut, such as dysentery. In Ayurvedic and Middle Eastern traditions, Artemisia was also commonly used for various intestinal complaints.

Modern scientific studies have demonstrated that some Artemisia species possess antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties. For example, Artemisia annua is the source of artemisinin, a well-known antimalarial compound, and extracts of various Artemisia species show in vitro activity against some pathogens responsible for gastrointestinal infections. However, direct clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of Artemisia preparations in the treatment of dysentery in humans is limited or lacking. Most support for its use remains rooted in traditional practice and historical usage, with only preliminary scientific rationale based on laboratory findings rather than robust clinical trials.

In summary, the use of Artemisia for dysentery is justified primarily by tradition, with some low-level scientific plausibility but insufficient modern clinical validation.

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Other ingredients used for Dysentery

Other health conditions supported by Artemisia (unspecified)

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