Artemisa Herbs

Artemisa is a bitter, strongly scented herb with a long history in Cuban spiritual practice. Each order is one fresh bunch.

What is Artemisa used for?

Artemisa is used in cleansing baths and despojos to clear heavy energy and ask for protection over health. Many houses connect it with Babalú Ayé, the Orisha syncretized with San Lázaro, so it's often used in work for him.

How do people use it?

• Cleansing baths: the leaves are torn into water for a bitter cleansing bath.
• Despojos: the bunch is passed over the body to remove heavy energy.
• Work for San Lázaro: it's used with other herbs of Babalú Ayé like Cundiamor.

Because it's a bitter herb, it's usually kept separate from sweet baths. Your godparent or olorisha will tell you how it fits into your own work, since every house has its own way.

Why buy it from El Viejo Lázaro?

We're El Viejo Lázaro, named after San Lázaro himself, so the herbs of Babalú Ayé have a special place on our shelves. We've served Miami since 2003 and ship fresh herbs nationwide.

Frequently asked questions

Which Orisha is Artemisa connected with?

Many houses connect it with Babalú Ayé, the Orisha of San Lázaro.

Is Artemisa a bitter or sweet herb?

It's a bitter herb, used for cleansing rather than attraction.

Can I drink Artemisa?

This bunch is sold for spiritual baths and cleansings, not for teas.

How much do I get?

One fresh bunch per order, enough for a typical spiritual bath.