青蒿素, or artemisinin, is a natural compound derived from the leaves of the sweet wormwood plant, known scientifically as Artemisia annua. It was discovered in the 1970s by Chinese scientist Tu Youyou, who found it effective in treating malaria. This compound has since become a key ingredient in many antimalarial medications. 青蒿素 works by targeting the malaria parasite, disrupting its ability to reproduce and survive in the human body. It is particularly effective against drug-resistant strains of malaria, making it an essential tool in global health efforts to combat this disease.