Botanical atlas

Roman Wormwood

Artemisia pontica

Roman wormwood takes its name from Pontus, the old Black Sea kingdom where it grew wild along dry hillsides, and it has flavored European bitters and aperitifs for centuries. Milder and sweeter than its cousin grande wormwood, it was the herb of choice for household tonics meant to be sipped rather than endured, a small cup taken before a heavy meal to wake up a sluggish appetite. It became one of the signature botanicals in traditional vermouth, lending the drink both its gentle bitterness and, indirectly, its very name. In old kitchen gardens across Central and Eastern Europe, a few leaves tucked into a jar of wine or vinegar was considered a simple household remedy for a tired digestion.

Safety.

Roman wormwood contains thujone, which can be neurotoxic and trigger seizures in excess, so use only small, occasional culinary-style amounts and never the essential oil internally. Avoid it during pregnancy and if you have a seizure disorder or a ragweed or daisy-family allergy.