Where Science and Nature Connect
Desert wormwood is a low-growing desert shrub with a unique scent and a strong, bitter taste.
It grows on exposed soft chalk rock formations in stream channels, mainly in the Negev and Judean Desert. The plant reaches peak flowering and potency at the end of summer, displaying yellowish inflorescences. To survive desert conditions, the branches of the sheeh that extend from the main stem develop their own root systems, enabling independent nourishment rather than relying solely on the main trunk. The Bedouins call the plant "the king of desert plants"
Laboratory research commissioned by the Ministry of Health (conducted by Dr. Ophir) – Office of the Chief Scientist – carried out at the Dead Sea and Arava Science Center, examined and found that among other things, Artemisia judaica, a traditional plant of the Israeli desert, demonstrates potential anticancer activity through activation of programmed cell death processes (apoptosis) in cancer cells under laboratory conditions. It is important to note that this has not yet been proven in clinical research.
Dr. Rivka Ophir, a biologist at the Dead Sea and Arava Science Center, researches medicinal plants from the Arava, with groundbreaking research on Artemisia plants aimed at identifying unique species and examining their laboratory activity. According to Dr. Ophir, the research showed that the plant's volatile compounds inhibit the development of fungi (Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, and Pythium species) that cause diseases in agricultural crops. Desert wormwood contains artemisinin, known as a compound that prevents malaria development. Dr. Ophir has also studied cancer treatment models that include, among other components, citral structure that treats cancer cells without harming normal cells.
Gidi Gur, who specializes in medicinal plants, writes in an article about the clinical use of desert plants regarding the growing areas of Artemisia judaica: "It is widespread in the Sinai Desert, mainly from its center northward, and extending to the northern coast of Egypt. In Israel, it can occasionally be found in the Wadi Paran stream beds in the Negev and sometimes in the Negev Highlands." Gur further notes that "at the clinical level and based on existing research, it can be concluded that Artemisia judaica possesses adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic (yes—it combats nausea), and anthelmintic (against worms and parasites) qualities. Despite limited research, there is no doubt that the plant's activity in strengthening the immune system and adaptogenic mechanisms is enhanced as befits...the king of the desert!"
In the field of oncology, Gidi Gur adds on his website: "Research on Artemisia judaica is in its infancy and publications are few. Using the ground plant orally or in syrups (but not with brief cooking) shows clinical improvement in treating hematooncological diseases. In treating multiple myeloma, an effect on kappa and lambda chains was observed. In treating chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), clinical regulation was demonstrated, expressed in increased neutrophils and decreased lymphocytes."
Experts describe it as a rare plant with unique presence, sometimes called the "king of the desert," and discuss the clinical use of various Artemisia species. The plant is considered central to treating the digestive system in general and worms in particular, and the use of the plant to treat various types of abdominal discomfort and diarrhea has been known and accepted for a long time. In 18th-century research expeditions, it is recounted that when crossing the Jordan north of the Dead Sea, travelers would carry small bags of wormwood (for inhalation and hanging on clothing) to prevent bites and malaria infection. Gur also notes that academic research "observed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacity."
Gur further recounts that during his time with members of the Azazma tribe in the Paran region, he was exposed to traditions of using Artemisia judaica to treat: "febrile diseases of bacterial or epidemic nature; digestive tract diseases, especially diarrhea and worms; general weakness and heart diseases; external use as an antiseptic and to promote wound healing." Gur concludes by saying: "Artemisia judaica, like desert wormwood, is a very important medicinal plant with very extensive integration capabilities in herbal prescriptions. Suitable for use in all forms of administration and possesses extensive research potential."
Nobel Prize: Chinese wormwood (Artemisia annua) has also received great interest. A unique component called artemisinin, extracted from the Chinese wormwood plant Artemisia annua, has been recognized for its significant contribution to understanding the mechanisms of combating malaria – for its discovery, researcher Youyou Tu was awarded the Nobel Prize.
Various studies indicate broad scientific interest in the potential of wormwood components in additional aspects, such as being a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects, which creates support for biological processes related to reducing the impact of free radicals and balancing the body's systems.
Sources of information:
Dr. Rivka Ophir: From the Portal for Agriculture, Nature and Environment website
Dr. Rivka Ophir: Research commissioned by the Israeli Ministry of Health, 2012
Gidi Gur: From his article About the clinical use of desert plants
Research in PubMed:
Pharmacological activity and flavonoids constituents of Artemisia judaica L aerial parts
The information on this site does not constitute medical advice and/or a substitute for any medical/pharmaceutical treatment. For any medical questions, users should consult their treating physician or herbalist.
