Mugwort (Artemisia spp.)

This sage-family plant grows at the bottom of a small fold in the hills behind our farm, and we first fell in love with it on the North Fork of the John Day River in Central Oregon. Mugwort may be best known for its incredible scent and mystical qualities, but that’s not all it it wants to share. A sage-smelling member of the Artemisia genus, Mugwort is associated with the hunter Artemis, the moon, vivid dreams. The first time we found it in the wilds, I put a huge handful of it in my small backpacking cook pot, poured hot water over it, and took a sip. Wheeew!!! I learned right quick that Mugwort is a highly pungent and bitter herb. And while a strong Mugwort tea is something I will not try again, it is exactly its bitter qualities that make Mugwort supportive herb for grounding and calm.

Bitter herbs tend to drive the energy downward and can be stabilizing when the mind is spinning. Its mystical qualities can help us access unconscious material useful for healing work. And, like other bitter herbs, Mugwort is also supportive of digestion, and anything that promotes balanced digestion promotes balanced moods. I take it when I feel frazzled and unfocused. Mugwort is also effective at relieving menstrual cramps and getting the flow going. Because of its uterine-contracting properties, it is not recommended during pregnancy.

The dried leaves make an excellent smoking herb or space-cleansing smudge, and a wash of the tea can help prevent or clear up skin or fungal infections.

Disclaimer

For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.