Definition:

Mugwort is a perennial herb with deeply lobed leaves that are green on top and white underneath. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its digestive, menstrual, and sleep-regulating properties.

Botanical Name: Artemisia vulgaris

Common Name: Mugwort

Family: Asteraceae

Part Used: Leaves, roots

Energetics:

• Taste: Bitter, pungent
• Temperature: Warming, drying

Actions:

• Nervine (calms the nervous system)
• Emmenagogue (stimulates menstrual flow)
• Digestive stimulant
• Antispasmodic
• Carminative (relieves gas)

Body Systems:

• Nervous System: Mugwort is known for its calming effects on the nervous system and is used to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and encourage vivid dreams.
• Reproductive System: Mugwort stimulates menstrual flow and can be used to regulate the menstrual cycle, particularly in cases of delayed menstruation or amenorrhea.
• Digestive System: As a bitter herb, Mugwort stimulates digestion and bile production, making it useful for indigestion, bloating, and sluggish digestion.

Primary Constituents:

• Volatile oils: Thujone, camphor, cineole (provide digestive and stimulant effects)
• Flavonoids: Luteolin, quercetin (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory)
• Tannins: Provide astringent and antimicrobial action

Safety Precautions:

• Pregnancy & Lactation: Mugwort is not recommended during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
• Thujone Content: Mugwort contains thujone, which can be toxic in large amounts. Use under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially for internal use.

Traditional & Modern Uses:

• Menstrual Health: Mugwort is traditionally used to stimulate and regulate menstrual flow, especially in cases of delayed or absent menstruation. It is also used to relieve menstrual cramps due to its antispasmodic properties.
• Digestive Aid: Mugwort is a classic digestive bitter, stimulating bile production and improving digestion. It helps relieve bloating, gas, and sluggish digestion.
• Dream Enhancement: Mugwort is associated with vivid dreams and is used by some to promote lucid dreaming. It is often placed under pillows or consumed as tea before bed for this purpose.
• Nervous System: Mugwort has calming effects on the nervous system, making it useful for reducing anxiety, nervous tension, and promoting relaxation.

Preparations & Dosage:

• Infusion (Tea): 1-2 tsp of dried mugwort leaves per cup of hot water, steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink 1-2 cups daily for digestive or menstrual support.
• Tincture: 2-4 ml, up to three times daily.
• Dream Pillow: Mugwort leaves can be dried and placed in a sachet under your pillow to promote vivid or lucid dreams.
• Incense: Mugwort is often burned as incense to aid relaxation and stimulate dreams.