Sweet Wormwood Chinese Herb
Sweet Wormwood (Qing Hao): A Cooling Herb for Fever, Heat in the Blood, and Yin Deficiency
Introduction
Sweet wormwood, known as Qing Hao (青蒿) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a bitter and aromatic herb celebrated for its strong heat-clearing effects—especially for yin-deficient fevers and lingering heat in the blood. Known historically for its role in treating malaria and modernly for the development of artemisinin, it is used in TCM to address tidal fevers, night sweats, and summer heat conditions. Gentle and non-drying, Qing Hao is ideal when heat lingers despite fluid deficiency.
What Is Sweet Wormwood?
Qing Hao is the aerial part of Artemisia annua, an herbaceous plant native to China and now cultivated worldwide. In TCM, it is classified as bitter, acrid, and cold, entering the Liver, Gallbladder, and Kidney meridians. Traditionally, Qing Hao is used to clear heat from deficiency, cool the blood, and relieve fever without damaging yin. It is distinct from other Artemisia species such as Ai Ye, which are warming in nature.
Health Benefits of Sweet Wormwood
Clears Heat from Deficiency
Used for low-grade or afternoon fevers, especially in chronic illness or yin-deficient individuals.
Relieves Summer Heat and Fevers
Cools the body during summer fevers, heatstroke, or malaria-like symptoms.
Cools the Blood and Stops Bleeding
Helpful in cases of bleeding disorders such as nosebleeds or rashes due to heat in the blood.
Alleviates Tidal Fevers and Night Sweats
A key herb for “steaming bone disorder”—feeling of internal heat without strong external signs.
Supports Recovery from Febrile Disease
Used post-illness to eliminate lingering low-grade fever or heat symptoms.
How to Use Sweet Wormwood
In Decoctions for Yin-Deficient or Lingering Fever
Use 6–12 grams and add toward the end of boiling (last 5 minutes) to preserve volatile oils. Often combined with herbs like Bai Wei or Di Gu Pi.
In Summer Heat or Febrile Formulas
Included in formulas such as Qing Hao Bie Jia Tang or Yin Chai Hu Tang for heat in the yin level.
In Herbal Teas or Infusions
Can be steeped gently (not overcooked) as a tea for light cooling during hot weather.
Where to Buy Sweet Wormwood
You can find Qing Hao at the following places:
- Chinese herbal medicine shops
- Natural remedy suppliers for fever support
- Online retailers like iHerb, Amazon, or TCM-specific vendors
Look for:
- Fluffy green or slightly yellowish dried aerial parts with a strong aromatic scent
- Sulfur-free and cleanly dried herbs
- Properly stored to retain essential oils and potency
Are There Any Side Effects?
Qing Hao is safe when used appropriately and not over-boiled. Overuse may cause dizziness or digestive upset. It should be avoided in cases of cold-type diarrhea or without heat signs. Not recommended during pregnancy unless prescribed by a qualified practitioner.
Conclusion
Sweet wormwood, or Qing Hao, is a highly effective cooling herb in TCM that clears heat from deficiency, reduces fevers, and cools the blood without harming yin. Whether used in seasonal heat, chronic low-grade fevers, or post-illness recovery, it brings lasting relief from stubborn internal heat.
FAQs
Can I take sweet wormwood every day?
It can be used daily in moderate amounts during acute conditions, but not long-term unless guided by a practitioner.
What does sweet wormwood taste like?
It has a bitter, slightly minty flavor with a distinct aromatic character.
Is sweet wormwood safe for children?
Yes, in reduced dosages and typically in formulas