Here is another link with some good and interesting information
Absinthe
According to an older edition of the Encyclopedia Britannia a variety of herbs may be used in its manufacture besides wormwood including: angelica root, sweet flag, dittany leaves, star-anise fruit, fennel, and hyssop.
In addition it adds this little pithy sentence at the end:
[ QUOTE ]
The wormwood acts powerfully upon the nerve centers, and causes delirium and hallucinations, followed in some cases by idiocy.
[/ QUOTE ]
I will leave it to you to sort out the truth of the matter. [Does psychotropic mean anything to you]
Some artist and writers may have used it for inspiration, or so common folklore tells us.
No doubt the authorities will get wind of this upsurge in popularity and try to ban it more effectively. Best try it before that happens. Enjoy.
-Zeno