Mugwort: Health Benefits, Uses, Side Effects & More!
By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Jun 14, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Jun 14, 2024Table of Contents
Mugwort is a plant that has many potential health benefits. It is used in both traditional remedies and modern-day investigations. In this article, we will go deep into mugwort’s past as a food and medical plant. We will shed light on its potential health benefits. We’ll also discuss about what to be careful of while using mugwort. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions regarding this topic.
Did you know?
Belonging to the daisy family, mugwort is a plant steeped in history. It has long been used across the world in medicinal practices. Its scientific name is Artemisia vulgaris. But it is known by a bouquet of other names as well which will be discussed later.
Mugwort first grew in Asia and Europe but made its way to North America. Throughout history, different cultures have turned to mugwort for many uses. It has helped with digestive issues, period problems, and even in rituals.
The world of mugwort includes many types and kinds, which can be a bit confusing to figure out. The topic of discussion in this article is Artemisia vulgaris. Some refer to other Artemisia plants, like Artemisia argyi (Chinese mugwort) and Artemisia annua (sweet wormwood), as mugwort as well. Each has its own characteristics and potential uses.
Mugwort also goes by the following names like wormwood, sailor’s tobacco, St. John’s plant, and chrysanthemum weed. These different titles can help when trying to detect this plant.
Mugwort is credited with numerous potential health benefits which are described below.
Practitioners use moxibustion, traditional method, and wherein mugwort is burnt in specific body areas. It is linked with traditional Chinese medicine, and also used in many other traditional ways of medicine.
Moxibustion relies on the heat from mugwort to empower specific acupuncture points. The aim is to improve the flow of “qi” and blood. Now, “qi” refers to vital energy in traditional Chinese medicine. This process is thought to help recovery and overall health.
Menstrual pain and irregularities, Asthma, Joint pain from arthritis, Upset digestion, Fatigue, Feeling low.
While findings are still not set in stone, early results suggest a potential benefit of moxibustion for these conditions.
Over the ages, mugwort has been a go-to herb in traditional medicine for digestive aid. It’s known to keep indigestion at bay and even increase the appetite.
Bitter parts in mugwort are believed to drive the production of digestive enzymes. This makes food breakdown easier for the body, aiding nutrient absorption.
The strong taste of mugwort might also kickstart the appetite. It does so by triggering release of juices in the stomach and bile. This increases the wish to eat. It may be a useful remedy for those who struggle with loss of appetite due to illness or other causes.
Mugwort has a long history in old remedy to lessen the pain caused by menstrual cramps and regularise periods.
Mugwort’s muscle-relaxing features are thought to relax the muscles in the uterus. This reduces painful cramping.
Mugwort is believed to encourage contractions in the uterus. This helps start or regulate periods that have been absent or are not regular. Pregnant people should steer clear of mugwort as these same features could potentially lead to a miscarriage.
So, the actions on the uterus are varied.
Studies suggest that mugwort might have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory features, offering potential health benefits.
Mugwort contains flavonoids. These may aid in reducing inflammation in the body. This likely backs its use for managing issues linked to inflammation, including arthritis, asthma, and muscle pain.
Mugwort’s antioxidant actions might help protect body cells from harm due to free radicals. These unstable molecules can cause early aging and many chronic illnesses.
Due to mugwort’s anti-inflammatory actions, it may be helpful in managing arthritis and joint pain. By reducing inflammation, it may ease pain and swelling linked to these conditions. Plus, the use of mugwort in moxibustion might offer help in recovery with arthritis.
While concrete evidence is still showing up, early studies suggest that some substances found in mugwort, such as artemisinin and its derivatives, may possess anti-cancer properties. For concrete results about mugwort in cancer therapy, more research is needed.
Mugwort may also help sustain immune function by fighting against harmful microbes and fungi. This could shield the body from infections and look after overall health.
Although studies have shown potential health benefits of mugwort, more large-scale human studies are needed to substantiate the usage.
Besides its potential medical uses, people turn to mugwort for additional purposes. These range from an insect repellent to a flavour booster in many dishes and drinks.
With its natural bug-killing ingredients, mugwort is often chosen as an organic and green insecticide. Spread in gardens, this plant could keep a range of pests at bay and guard the other plants from invasion.
It’s a key player in food, particularly in Asian and European countries. Previously mugwort was used to flavour beer. Its strong taste makes it a good choice in seasoning meats, fish, and other dishes. Plus, in Asia, mugwort is often added to rice cakes, soups, salads, and pancakes.
Old tales and word-of-mouth reports mention using mugwort to promote lucid dreaming. This is when the dreamer is aware they are dreaming. They might even be able to steer their actions in the dream. To encourage vivid dreams, some put mugwort under their pillows or drink mugwort tea. However, more research is needed to back these claims.
These uses of mugwort too require further scientific probing.
While most people find mugwort safe, it’s crucial to know the potential side effects and precautions.
Allergic reactions to mugwort may occur in some people. This is more so in those allergic to ragweed or plants from the daisy family. Signs of allergic reaction can include sneezing, itching, rash, and swelling.
Due to its effects on the uterus and menstrual cycle, pregnant women should avoid mugwort. It could increase the risk of miscarriage. The safety of mugwort for breastfeeding women is not certain. So, it’s wiser to take caution and talk to a healthcare professional before use.
There are flavones in mugwort that may spoil the metabolism of some medicines. Specifically, drugs that are broken down by CYP1A2 (for example, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antibiotics) and CYP2C9 enzymes (for example, painkillers, antipyretics, anti-inflammatories, antiepileptics, statins, diabetes medicine, blood thinner, anti-cancer, antifungal, antibacterial medicines). If you are using any medicines, it is important your healthcare professional knows before you start using mugwort.
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In herbal mixes, you can find mugwort in many forms. For instance, teas, infusions, essentials oils, tinctures, and extracts.
Mugwort is easy to add to home remedies and therapies. It can be used as a tea or essential oil or prepared in other ways.
Just dip dried mugwort leaves in boiling water. Sip on the brew to gain potential benefits such as digestive aid, menstrual relief, and maybe even better sleep.
Meanwhile, mugwort essential oil may offer health benefits. But always dilute it in a carrier oil before applying to skin. This step lowers the risk of skin irritation or an allergic reaction.
For a hefty dose of mugwort, opt for tinctures and extracts. These liquid forms can be added to teas, drinks, or taken as it is. Of course, always stick to what the maker has suggested in terms of dosage.
While there are no clear-cut doses for mugwort, always seek advice from your healthcare professional before using any new supplement or remedy. Pay attention to product label guidelines and heed any warnings given.
Always opt for trusted brands for pure and high-quality ingredients. Look out for products that have undergone third-party testing for safety and strength.
Once you get mugwort, store it in a sealed container away from sunlight and dampness. This helps retain freshness and strength over time.
Besides its medicinal uses, Mugwort has an honoured place in different cuisines across Asia and Europe.
Mugwort has been used traditionally in a wide variety of dishes like rice cakes, soups, salads, and pancakes across Asian nations. In Europe, it was a common ingredient to flavour beer before hops surfaced. Its unique bitterness brings a depth and complexity to recipes.
Try adding it to your go-to soups, stews, and sauces. Or experiment with it as a spice for roasted meats or fish. Just remember to use small amounts as it has a strong flavour that can be too much if used in large amounts.
Mugwort is a fascinating plant. It provides a host of possible health benefits and culinary uses. From moxibustion to digestive support, from keeping bugs away to its test phase in cancer therapy. There is still so much to learn and unearth about this age-old herb. As we find out more, mugwort might become common in holistic practices and everyday remedies.
However, until we have more confirmatory evidence on its safety and effectiveness, it’s vital to be careful when using mugwort. Always talk to a healthcare professional before making it part of your diet or health plan.
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Yes, you can grow mugwort in your backyard. But keep in mind that it grows fast and can take over large parts of your garden. Always check local and state laws before growing mugwort. Some places may have rules against growing plant types that spread quickly.
Pregnant women should not use mugwort due to its possible effects on the uterus and the risk of miscarrying. Seek advice from a healthcare professional for safe alternatives during pregnancy.
Word-of-mouth stories suggest that mugwort may promote vivid and memorable dreams, possibly even enhancing lucid dreaming experiences. The research on this is still not there.
Mugwort may interact with medications metabolised by CYP1A2 and CYP2C9 enzymes. This could change their efficacy or cause side effects. Always consult your healthcare professional before including mugwort if you are taking any medicines.
To brew mugwort tea at home, pour boiling water over dried mugwort leaves. Leave it to infuse for 10-15 minutes. After that, strain the mixture and enjoy the warm brew. Start with less leaf and adjust the strength based on your taste.
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