Genus Artemisia Higher classification Mugworts | Scientific name Artemisia cina Rank Species | |
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Similar Mugworts, Daisy family, Artemisia maritima, Artemisia campestris, Artemisia scoparia | ||
Artemisia cina, commonly known as santonica (zahr el shieh el -khorasani), Levant wormseed, and wormseed, is an Asian species of herbaceous perennial in the daisy family. Its dried flowerheads are the source of the vermifugic drug santonin since ancient times. Its common names arise from its known ability to expel worms. The powder is grayish-green in colour with an aromatic odour and a bitter taste.
Contents
The plant is characterised by its spherical pollen grains, which are typical in the Asteraceae family, a fibrous layer on anthers, lignified, elongated, hypodermal sclerids, and clusters of calcium oxalate crystals.
It is native to China, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.
Biochemistry
In addition to santonin, the above-ground parts of the plant contain betaine, choline, tannins, pigments, and an essential oil. The essential oil is largely composed of 1,8-cineole, but contains a wide variety of other compounds as well.
Other uses for name
Dysphania ambrosioides is another plant with the common name wormseed, called epazote in Mexican cuisine.
