The dried leaf or extract of the Artemisia annua plant or its natural derivative artemisinin are available as supplements with anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
How can Artemisia annua and artemisinin help you? What the research says
Learn more about how we research and rate therapies and practices in How We Rate Therapies ›
Most of the research to date is among cell lines and animals (preclinical evidence), which we consider weak evidence of effects overall. A brief overview of the strongest preclinical evidence is presented in Are you a health professional? ›
Treating cancer
Is Artemisia annua linked to improved survival? Is it linked to less cancer growth or metastasis? Does it enhance the anticancer action of other treatments or therapies? We present the evidence.
Optimizing your body terrain
Does Artemisia annua promote an environment within your body that is less supportive of cancer development, growth, or spread? We present the evidence.
Research has only begun studying the connections between body terrain factors and cancer outcomes, and the oncology community is not yet sure how to interpret all the findings. If inflammation, the terrain factor listed here, could be an issue for you, we recommend that you ask your doctor if you need any diagnostic tests to detect inflammation or any adjustments to your lifestyle or medications.
We also recommend that you share with your doctor the information here about how Artemisia annua might affect inflammation.
Managing side effects and promoting wellness
Is Artemisia annua linked to fewer or less severe side effects or symptoms? Is it linked to less toxicity from cancer treatment? Does it support your quality of life or promote general well-being? We present the evidence.
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