Botanical Overview
Qinghao (Artemisia annua) is a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. Traditional medicine systems have documented several valuable applications for this species, supported by its observed therapeutic effects. The daisy family (Asteraceae) is one of the largest plant families, characterized by composite flower heads (capitula) that contain many small florets surrounded by bracts. Plants range from tiny alpine herbs to large tropical trees. The family includes many medicinally important species with bitter compounds and essential oils.
General Description
The chemical compound artemisinin, which is isolated from A. annua, is a medication used to treat malaria due to Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest species of malarial parasite. Discovery of artemisinin and its antimalarial properties made the Chinese scientist Tu Youyou recipient of the 2011 Lasker Prize and 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
Family Context
The Asteraceae family is extremely large and diverse. Notable medicinal members include:
- Yarrow — 63 documented uses
- Gobo — 63 documented uses
- Mugwort — 55 documented uses
- Sunflower — 52 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Qinghao has been recorded in India, Mexico, Pakistan, and United States.
Traditional Uses
Qinghao has been traditionally used for digestive health, skin and wound care, and fever management, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Stomachic
- Carminative
- Dyspepsia
- Dysentery
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Skin and wound care.
- Abscess
- Scabies
- Skin
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Fever management.
- Fever
Febrifuge preparations are typically administered as hot teas to induce perspiration, which helps the body regulate temperature. The patient is kept warm and encouraged to rest while the herb promotes sweating.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Flavonoid: antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage
- Coumarin: aromatic compounds with anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory effects
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities