Countries which are found around the equator are rich in different kinds of trees that could cure serious diseases. Artemisia is one of these trees which was first discovered in China and Vietnam and now grows in many countries, including Eritrea.

Artemisia is a three-meter-long plant, rich in a mineral called Artemisia. The Chinese first made use of this plant before 2000 years to cure fever. If used effectively, the tree can cure diseases like malaria, hemorrhoid and bilharzias, and also helps people living with HIV/AIDS to develop resistance.

But nowadays, only the developed countries are making fruitful use of Artemisia. These countries take the Artemisia from the developing word to make different types of medicine and then sell it back to the third world countries. Observing this fact, Hans Martin Hirt, a German pharmacist, established an action group called Action for Natural Medicine (ANAMED), with the aim to help Third World countries use herbal medicine in their land rather than fattening the wallets of western industrialists. That way the countries could also save the exaggerated expenses on medicine from the west.

Mr. Hans Martin’s interest was not limited to forming an action group. He also published a book with his partner Bindanda M’Pia published a book on how developing countries can use their natural resources in saving their people. The book, Natural Medicine in the Tropics, which was prepared with the consultation of various international experts in medicine, clearly identifies the important medicinal trees and provides instructions on how to use them, as well as possible side effects.

Regarding Artemisia, the book indicates that the Artemisia can also be used to protect plants from weeds.

This tree is now available in Eritrea in the nursery at Betghiorghis in Asmara and also in the houses of some individuals. Yet, despite its importance, Artemisia hasn’t still gained the desired level of recognition by the people. Campaigns should be made to increase the people’s awareness and experts in the field should make extensive researches so as to enable the people to own this plant of tremendous importance.
(Source: March 2008, Vol 36)