Abrotanum is a well-known homeopathic remedy particularly suited for conditions involving marasmus (progressive emaciation), especially in children who look thin and wasted despite having a good appetite. It is often indicated when there is emaciation of the lower body while the face remains bloated or full.

It is also useful in cases where patients develop rheumatic pains after diarrhea or suffer from metastasis of diseases (for example, suppressed diarrhea followed by joint pains or respiratory troubles).