Wormwood is LIKELY SAFE when consumed in the levels found in food and drinks, such as bitters and vermouth, as long as these items are thujone-free. Wormwood containing thujone is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when consumed or applied to the skin. Thujone is a toxic chemical present in some species of wormwood that are used in traditional medicine. The German health agency says there is "some evidence" that consuming bitter herbs can lead to stomach problems but no more than other foods with similar ingredients. The agency also says that although rare, liver damage has been reported after eating certain wild plants. Wormwood is safe when used externally in small amounts as a wash or cream for skin irritations. It may cause contact dermatitis if it gets into your eyes. Anyone with eye problems or allergies should not use external applications of this herb. Wormwood is safe when taken by mouth in low doses over time for treating diarrhea. But larger doses may be harmful unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not take wormwood because there is only limited research on its effects with humans. Wormwood has psychoactive effects like other hallucinogens, so it could be dangerous if you have an anxiety disorder or depression.