Discover the Surprising Benefits and Hidden Risks of Mugwort You Need to Know!

Mugwort, also known as Artemisia vulgaris, is a perennial herb native to Europe, Asia, and North America. This plant has a long history of use in traditional medicine, spiritual practices, and even cooking. But what exactly is mugwort, and why is it so highly regarded? This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of mugwort, exploring its potential benefits, various uses, and possible side effects.

Please note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using mugwort or any other herbal remedy.

What is Mugwort?

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a plant native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is a root-based perennial plant that goes by many different names, such as felonherb, green ginger, or common (wild) wormwood. The plant itself can reach up to six feet at its highest. The leaves of one species of the plant, A. vulgaris, are the most commonly used and can be dried and brewed as tea.

The technical title, Artemisia vulgaris, comes from “Artemis,” the name of a Greek moon goddess and considered to be a patron of women. During the Middle Ages, people called it the "mother of herbs."

Traditional Uses and Purported Benefits

For many centuries, mugwort has been mainly used for treating gynecological problems and gastrointestinal diseases. Traditionally, mugwort has been used to support digestion, menstrual health, and sleep.

Across the world, people have long claimed that this medicinal plant has many benefits for your health. These may include:

Antimalarial effects
Anti-inflammatory effects
Antihypertensive effects
Antioxidant effects
Antitumoral effects
Immune system benefits
Hepatoprotective effects (preventing liver damage)
Antispasmolytic effects (helping prevent muscle spasms)
Antiseptic effects

It contains essential oils, flavonoids, and other compounds believed to offer various health benefits. Mugwort is a medicinal plant of the Artemisia vulgaris species that is rich in flavonoids, sesquiterpenes and phenolic acids. Some studies show that mugwort has substances with anti-inflammatory action, such as artemisinin and cardamonin.

While mugwort is not commonly used in modern Western medicine, its aroma and bitter taste lead some people to use it to help release digestive juices and treat appetite loss, gastritis, flatulence, and low stomach acid.

Specific Applications of Mugwort

Digestive Aid

Mugwort is commonly used to aid digestion. It’s believed to stimulate digestive enzymes, reduce bloating, and reduce mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Consuming mugwort tea after meals may help soothe the stomach and promote digestion. Additionally, it’s said to support liver function by promoting the flow of bile, which is essential for breaking down fats and easing digestion. The plant contains high levels of antioxidants, which help to alleviate digestive and intestinal issues like ulcers, vomiting, nausea and constipation.

Support for Menstrual Health

Mugwort is sometimes used to support menstrual health. It’s thought to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce cramps. Some people drink mugwort tea or use tinctures to bring on delayed periods. This herb is also considered a mild emmenagogue, meaning it may help to stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus.

Some believe mugwort can also be used to help treat irregular menstrual cycles and menopausal symptoms. In traditional Asian medicine, practitioners use mugwort or wormwood in a process called moxibustion to treat menstrual cramping and stimulate the menstrual cycle.

Sleep Aid and Dream Enhancement

Mugwort has gained popularity as a natural sleep aid. It is said to induce vivid dreams and enhance dream recall. Drinking mugwort tea before bed or placing dried mugwort under the pillow are common practices. The herb is believed to contain compounds that affect the nervous system, promoting relaxation and potentially easing stress before sleep. It’s even been known to elicit intense and vivid dreams.

Skincare

Mugwort is also found in skincare products, particularly in East Asian formulations. It’s believed to soothe irritation, reduce redness, and promote a clearer complexion. The herb is rich in antioxidants that help protect the skin from environmental damage and free radicals. Mugwort is often included in skincare products for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Respiratory Health

Some people smoke mugwort or burn it as incense to clear the lungs and support respiratory health. However, caution is advised, as inhaling smoke can be harmful. Mugwort is also said to have mild expectorant properties, potentially helping to loosen mucus and reduce congestion.

Moxibustion

The main use of mugwort is in a technique called moxibustion. In traditional Asian medicine, practitioners use mugwort or wormwood in a process called moxibustion. Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves the burning of a dried herb called “moxa” on or near specific points on the body. Moxibustion involves burning the herb over a specific part of the body based on what the practitioner is trying to achieve. Practitioners also commonly use moxibustion during acupuncture to increase the effectiveness of this ancient Chinese practice.

When moxibustion is being used to reverse a fetus in breech, the procedure stimulates a specific acupuncture point, BL67, located near the toenail of the fifth toe, creating blood circulation and energy that result in an increase in fetal movements.

Forms of Mugwort

Mugwort is available in various forms, allowing you to choose based on your wellness goals, preferences, and lifestyle. The parts of mugwort that are commonly used are the leaves and flowers. Mugwort can be purchased at herbal stores, health food stores or pharmacies.

Mugwort Tea: Mugwort tea is one of the most popular and traditional ways to consume mugwort. It’s often used to support digestion, induce relaxation, and promote vivid dreaming. Artemisia tea can be prepared with the flowers or leaves of this plant. Place the mugwort leaves in the boiling water and let them steep for 10 minutes. Boil the mugwort flowers and water for 1 minute. Cover and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This form is ideal for those who want a calming ritual before bed or those exploring dreamwork.
Capsules: Capsules provide a convenient and controlled way to take mugwort. They’re easy to travel with, require no preparation, and ensure consistent dosing.
Tinctures: Herbal tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts that are typically alcohol-based. They can be taken under the tongue or diluted in water for rapid absorption. This form is ideal for those looking for a potent, fast-acting option.
Dried Leaves: Dried mugwort leaves can be used in several ways, including making tea, smoking, or burning as incense. This form is versatile and is often used for spiritual practices or dream enhancement.
Essential Oil: Mugwort essential oil is a concentrated extract often used topically. It’s typically diluted and applied to the skin to soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and support menstrual relief.
Creams and Ointments: Mugwort-infused creams and ointments are designed for topical use. They are often used to calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and promote a clearer complexion.
Smoking Blends: Some people smoke dried mugwort leaves to experience its calming and dream-inducing effects. Mugwort is often combined with other herbs to create herbal smoking blends. However, caution is advised, as smoking any herb can irritate the lungs.

Dosage

The appropriate dosage of mugwort varies depending on the specific form and intended use.

Tea: 1-2 teaspoons of dried mugwort steeped in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
Tincture: Start with a few drops diluted in water, up to three times a day.
Essential Oil: Apply a few drops to the skin, diluted in a carrier oil.

It’s recommended to start with a lower dose, especially if you are new to mugwort, and gradually increase as needed. For consistent support, daily use during times of stress, menstrual discomfort, or sleep disturbances can be beneficial. There is currently not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate dosage for mugwort, and people should keep this in mind if they are thinking of using it.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

Common side effects of mugwort are generally mild and occur mainly when the herb is consumed in large quantities or used for extended periods. Mugwort can also trigger allergic reactions, sinusitis-like symptoms, and sneezing.

Toxicity: Mugwort contains compounds that can potentially be toxic when consumed in excessive amounts or over prolonged periods. The herb also contains thujone, a compound that can be neurotoxic if ingested in large doses. This is particularly a concern when using concentrated essential oils or tinctures.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using mugwort, as it may stimulate the uterus and increase the risk of miscarriage. In the past, people used mugwort to induce abortion.
Seizures: Those with a history of seizures or epilepsy should avoid consuming large doses of mugwort, as thujone can potentially trigger seizures.
Long-Term Effects: Short-term use of mugwort is generally considered safe for most healthy adults when taken in moderate amounts. However, the long-term effects of daily supplementation or regular use have not been well studied.
Allergies: As it’s related to ragweed and part of the daisy family, this noxious weed may cause allergies similar to ragweed that affect your health and daily life. Mugwort can cause allergic reactions similar to those associated with ragweed. These reactions can occur from coming into physical contact with the plant or from drinking tea made from the herb. Mugwort can also increase asthma symptoms, such as coughing and wheezing. Symptoms of such allergies can include: sneezing, a runny nose, nasal congestion, headaches, irritated eyes, and an itchy throat.
- There is also something called “birch-mugwort-celery syndrome,” or “celery-carrot-mugwort-spice syndrome,” which indicates that if a person is allergic to one of the substances in these names, they may also be likely to be allergic to the others. This is also known as oral allergy syndrome.
Moxibustion Smoke: one 2020 study found significant toxic components in moxibustion smoke that might have negative effects on the liver, kidneys, and heart. Therefore, people should ventilate extensively when using mugwort.

Scientific Evidence and Research

At present, there is limited scientific evidence that mugwort can prevent or treat any medical condition. That being said, a 2020 study reveals that “numerous authors have confirmed the beneficial properties of A. vulgaris.” As a result, mugwort will continue to be studied.

Arthritis Reduction

One 2017 review found sufficient evidence to suggest that moxibustion is effective for pain reduction and symptom management in people with osteoarthritis in the knee. This supports a 2016 review that suggests that moxibustion could be useful as an alternative in treating knee osteoarthritis.

Cancer Treatment Side Effects

A 2018 review of numerous studies into moxibustion concludes that it may help reduce the symptoms of chemotherapy and improve quality of life, but research must continue to confirm this.

Breech Births

There is some evidence to suggest that moxibustion may be able to help prevent or correct breech births, which might, in turn, help reduce the need for as many cesarean deliveries. One 2012 review suggests that this can be either alone or in combination with acupuncture or postural techniques. A 2019 review also notes that moxibustion resulted in a decreased use of oxytocin compared with no treatment.

Cancer Research

Completed and current ongoing studies on the possible uses of mugwort indicate that links to the fundamental component of the plant, artemisinins, as being toxic to certain cancer cells. As scientists have continued to study the components that effect malaria, they’ve found links to artemisinins targeting mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum and the lysosome. In one study, scientists paired the iron heavy cancerous cells with the artemisinin. Once the combination was inside the cells, the result was enhanced toxicity - which means, more potential killing capacity towards the cancer.

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