Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is a plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family, commonly known as wormwood or grand wormwood. This plant is valued for its bitter, tonic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, making it useful in various cosmetic, skincare, and medicinal applications.
CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND STRUCTURE
Chemically, Artemisia absinthium contains a wide range of bioactive compounds, including essential oils, flavonoids, terpenes, and sesquiterpene lactones, which contribute to its therapeutic properties:
Essential Oils: containing thujone and other volatile compounds, which provide antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Flavonoids: known for their antioxidant properties, helping to protect the skin from oxidative damage.
Terpenes: aromatic compounds that contribute to the plant's therapeutic effects.
Sesquiterpene Lactones: bitter substances that give the plant its tonic and digestive properties.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Appearance: the plant is characterized by finely divided, silvery-green leaves with a whitish fuzz and small yellow flowers grouped in clusters.
Odor: strong, aromatic, with a characteristic bitter note.
Solubility: compounds extracted from Artemisia absinthium may be soluble in alcohol and some organic solvents, while aqueous extraction may be less effective due to the presence of volatile oils.
Density: varies depending on the part of the plant used and the extraction method.
PRODUCTION PROCESS
Harvesting: the leaves and flowers of Artemisia absinthium are harvested during the flowering stage, when the concentration of active compounds is highest.
Drying: the harvested parts of the plant are dried to preserve the volatile compounds and facilitate storage.
Extraction: active compounds are extracted using methods such as solvent extraction, infusion, or distillation, depending on the desired application.
Filtration and Purification: the extracts are filtered to remove impurities and concentrate the active ingredients.
Packaging and Storage: the final products are packaged and stored in a cool, dry place to maintain their properties.
APPLICATIONS
Cosmetics: used in skincare and hair care products for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and tonic properties.
Skin Care: can be included in lotions, toners, and creams for its purifying and balancing effects.
Hair Care: used in shampoos and scalp treatments, particularly to reduce excess oil and improve scalp health.
Aromatherapy Products: essential oil of Artemisia absinthium can be used in aromatherapy for its strong herbal fragrance.
Medicine: used in herbal preparations for its digestive, tonic, and antimicrobial properties.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Sustainability: the cultivation of Artemisia absinthium is generally sustainable, especially when carried out responsibly and with respect for the environment.
Toxicity: Artemisia absinthium contains thujone, which can be toxic in high concentrations; therefore, it is important to use it according to guidelines and recommended dosages, particularly in food and medicinal preparations.
Allergenicity: as with all plant-based products, individual reactions of intolerance or allergy cannot be excluded.
INCI
Skin conditioning agent. It is the mainstay of topical skin treatment as it has the function of restoring, increasing or improving skin tolerance to external factors, including melanocyte tolerance. The most important function of the conditioning agent is to prevent skin dehydration, but the subject is rather complex and involves emollients and humectants that can be added in the formulation.
Synonyms:
CAS:
Wormwood 
