Taxonomy

• Family Name: Asteraceae
• Botanical Name: Artemisia abrotanum
• Common Name: Southern wood, Boy’s love, Lad’s love, Garderobe, Maid’s love, Old Man, Sitherwood and Southern wormwood

Description

Historically this plant has been used medicinally and due to its strong scent, was used as an air freshener, insect repellent, and moth repellent for wool clothing. Leaves retain their fragrance even after cutting and drying, making it suitable for use in potpourris and sachets to freshen air or clothing.  A yellow dye can be extracted from the branches of the plant, for use with wool.

Toxicity

The aerial parts of Artemisia abrotanum contain substances that can be toxic to humans, due to the presence in the essential oil of bicyclic onoterpenes and phenylpropanoids. 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. Safety during pregnancy is not known.

References:

missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/

plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/artemisia-abrotanum/

pfaf.org

Synonyms:

No known synonyms. 

Disclaimer: Vancouver Island Master Gardeners Association (VIMGA) does not advise or recommend herbs for medicinal or health use. Any information in the recommended resources should be regarded as being for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a recommendation or an endorsement of any medical or health treatment.