Compound Monograph
Absinthin
Absinthin is a bitter sesquiterpene lactone from wormwood and one of the most intensely bitter natural compounds known.
Sources · 1
Where Does It Come From?
Absinthin is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene lactone (dimeric), found in Wormwood. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Concentration
Content by Source
Concentrations not reported. No percent-dry-weight or mg/g figures have been published for this compound in its source plants.
Research & Evidence
Absinthin is a dimeric sesquiterpene lactone and one of the principal bitter constituents of wormwood (Artemisia absinthium). It is responsible for much of the characteristic bitterness of wormwood and of beverages flavored with it, and it is among the most bitter naturally occurring compounds known. It is distinct from thujone, the more notorious wormwood constituent. Absinthin has been examined for digestive-stimulant and anti-inflammatory properties associated with bitter principles.
Toxicity & Safety
Absinthin itself is regarded as relatively low in toxicity at the small amounts encountered in foods and beverages, and it should not be confused with thujone, which is the compound of toxicological concern in wormwood preparations.
