Synopsis

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

Artemisia herba-alba, commonly known as white wormwood, has been traditionally used in various cultures, particularly in North Africa and the Middle East, for its medicinal properties, including as an antimicrobial and to treat infectious diseases. Ethnobotanical records document its use as a folk remedy for infections, fevers, and as a substitute for conventional antibiotics, especially in rural or remote areas where access to modern medicine may be limited.

Scientific studies have confirmed that Artemisia herba-alba contains several bioactive compounds, such as essential oils (e.g., camphor, α- and β-thujone), flavonoids, and sesquiterpene lactones, which exhibit some degree of antimicrobial activity (Boudjelal et al., 2015). In vitro research demonstrates inhibition of growth in certain bacteria and fungi, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. However, these effects are generally moderate and do not match the efficacy or specificity of conventional antibiotics. The available scientific evidence is mostly limited to laboratory studies; robust clinical trials in humans are lacking.

In summary, while there is clear traditional use and some preliminary scientific evidence of antimicrobial activity, Artemisia herba-alba is not a validated alternative to antibiotics in evidence-based medicine. Its use remains primarily traditional, and more research is needed to determine its clinical significance.

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