Wormwood is the main ingredient of the legendary drink absinthe, which was invented in 1792 by a French doctor. Intended as a medicine, it became very popular as a recreational drink. The effects are narcotic and mildly hallucinogenic.
Soak 1/10 of a teaspoon in a cup of hot (non-boiling) water. The tea has a bitter taste, but you can add peppermint leaves or anise.
In high dosages Wormwood is poisonous. Long and intensive use can lead to addiction, as well as physical and mental harm. High dosages can give nervousness, restlessness, cramps, headaches and dizziness. An overdose may manifest as unconsciousness, coma and death. After making absinthe, first try one small glass and wait about an hour for the effects. Try it again at another opportunity. Better to dose too little with no effects at all than to take too much, poisoning yourself or making yourself feel sick. Do not drive motorized vehicles while under the influence of wormwood.