Mugwort

Also Known As – Artemisia vulgaris

Organically Grown USA

Overview - Part of the wormwood family, mugwort is native to the British Isles. It grows to a height of three feet and makes a stunning specimen in the back of a garden with its spiky leaves. It was once used to flavor beer before the discovery of hops. It is a seasoning in some cuisines, although it has somewhat fallen into disuse in many countries because of a toxic compound found in the plant.

Medicinal Uses – Medicinally speaking the herb is quite complex with over 75 unique chemicals that have been identified. When used internally, it supports digestion and has relaxing properties. One of the major uses is in Korean, Japanese and Chinese traditional medicine in the practice of Moxibustion; The herb can be placed directly on the skin, attached to acupuncture needles, or rolled into sticks and waved gently over the area to be treated. In all instances, the herb is ignited and releases heat. Not only is it the herb that is believed to have healing properties in this manner, but also the heat released from the herb in a precise area. There have been published clinical trials of this technique. See references for more details.

Internally, Mugwort can relieve fatigue and stimulate the nervous system when the leaves are chewed. It can regulate menstrual periods or cause early abortion. It is thought to relieve the pain of menstrual cramping as well. In Chinese medicine, it is thought to cure infertility and to prevent miscarriage when used under the watchful eye of an experienced herbalist. It may be used for menopausal symptoms. It can also be taken for fever. Externally, Mugwort is used in Chinese medicine as moxa. Moxabustion is when a small cone of dried herb is applied to energy points on the body while burning, and it has been found to help breech babies turn to a head down position.

Active Constituents - 1,8 Cineole, Alpha Pinene, Alpha Thujone, Ascorbic Acid, Beta Carotene, Beta Sitosterol, Calcium, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Niacin, Potassium, Quercitin, Riboflavin, Thiamin, Zinc.

Other Uses – Mugwort is used in Korea and Japan to flavor rice cakes, soups and other dishes. In Europe, it is applied as a bitter herb to season roast goose.

Herbs to Combine/Supplement - Can be combined with ginger to make an herbal tea to relieve menstrual pain.

Parts Used -  Leaves and flower buds are used for different purposes. It is most commonly taken as a tea or put into capsules, although you can also tincture the herb.

Precautions - Do not use mugwort while pregnant as it contains a toxic substance called thujone, which can build up in the body. It is not used internally very often today.

Suggested - A mugwort tincture can be taken in two doses per day of 20 to 40 drops each time. If you are taking an infusion, 4 fluid ounces can be taken twice a day. The Chinese use a dose of 1/8 to ½ ounce per day.

Disclaimer - The information presented herein by Mountain Maus’ Remedies is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.