Artemisinin
Also known as: artemisia annua, sweet wormwood, qinghaosu
Recommended Dosage
100–200 mg
Derived from sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua), the basis of Nobel Prize-winning antimalarial drugs. As a supplement, evidence is limited to antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Self-prescribing is risky. Must be cycled. Not a substitute for medical treatment.
Quick Facts
Evidence
Grade C
Studies
1
Interactions
2
Forms
1
Evidence Rating: Grade C — Preliminary
Limited human trials, mostly animal or in-vitro data. Promising but not yet proven in robust human studies.
Cycling Protocol
Continuous use risks neurotoxicity and promotes resistance; strict cycling is essential for safety
Interaction Warnings
Artemisinin induces CYP enzymes and may reduce levels of co-administered drugs.
Artemisinin interacts with iron to generate free radicals — this is its antimalarial mechanism but may cause oxidative stress.
Important Notes
- Nobel Prize-winning antimalarial drug — supplement use is NOT equivalent to pharmaceutical treatment
- Self-treatment for malaria with supplements is dangerous and ineffective
- May cause neurotoxicity at high doses — strict dose limits essential
- Cycling is mandatory — continuous use risks resistance and toxicity
- Not FDA-approved as a supplement for any condition in the US
- Research on anticancer properties is preliminary — do not use as cancer treatment
Clinical Evidence (1 study)
Artemisinins: their growing importance in medicine
Krishna S et al. (2008) — BMJ
Artemisinin and derivatives are potent antimalarials; emerging research on anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties but supplement use is distinct from pharmaceutical dosing
View on PubMedAlternatives to Consider
These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Artemisinin.
Garlic / Allicin
Grade AStrong RCT evidence for blood pressure reduction (~8-9/5-6 mmHg) and cold prevention (64% reduction). Aged extract preferred for CV.
Andrographis
Grade BAyurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine herb with strong evidence for reducing severity and duration of upper respiratory infections. Active compound andrographolide has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. Best used acutely at illness onset.
Cranberry Extract
Grade BConcentrated source of proanthocyanidins (PACs) that prevent bacterial adhesion to urinary tract walls. Good evidence for preventing recurrent UTIs in women. Extract form (36mg PAC) is more effective and practical than juice. Safe for long-term use.
Related Supplements
Oregano Oil
Grade C — PreliminaryPotent antimicrobial herb with broad-spectrum activity against bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Active compound carvacrol shows strong in vitro effects. Best used short-term for acute gut or immune challenges. Prolonged use may harm beneficial gut bacteria. Cycle strictly.
Garlic / Allicin
Grade A — Strong EvidenceStrong RCT evidence for blood pressure reduction (~8-9/5-6 mmHg) and cold prevention (64% reduction). Aged extract preferred for CV.
Echinacea
Grade C — PreliminaryPopular immune-support herb with modest evidence for reducing cold duration and severity when taken early. Species, plant part, and preparation method significantly affect efficacy. Best used acutely rather than continuously. Cycle on/off.
Andrographis
Grade B — Moderate EvidenceAyurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine herb with strong evidence for reducing severity and duration of upper respiratory infections. Active compound andrographolide has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. Best used acutely at illness onset.
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⚕️ Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.
DoseGrade does not sell supplements and has no affiliate relationships with supplement manufacturers.