31/10/2025
“Do not cringe and make yourself small if you are called the black sheep, the maverick, the lone wolf. Those with slow seeing say a nonconformist is a blight on society. But it has been proven over the centuries, that being different means standing at the edge, means one is practically guaranteed to make an original contribution, a useful and stunning contribution to her culture. When seeking guidance, don’t ever listen to the tiny-hearted. Be kind to them, heap them with blessings, cajole them, but do not follow their advice. If you have ever been called defiant, incorrigible, forward, cunning, insurgent, unruly, rebellious, you’re on the right track. Wild Woman is close by. If you have never been called these things, there is yet time. Practice your Wild Woman.”
-Clarissa Pinkola Estes
Characterized by its silvery leaves and bitterness, Artemesia is a group of plants that are sometimes called ‘Wormwood” or “Crones Wort”; one variety is the main ingredient in the drink, absinthe.
Artemisia is healing on many levels, and according to some lore, can be guardians of the home.
I was reminded of the above quote by Clarissa Pinkola Estes when I came upon this majestic and often overlooked medicine plant.
