Mugwort, Artemisia vulgaris and Western Mugwort, A. ludoviciana

Mugwort is the common name for several species of Artemisia. Here we are discussing Artemisia vulgaris, Common Mugwort or Felon Herb and Artemisia ludoviciana, known as Western Mugwort or White Sagebrush. The two species have similar medicinal proper-

ties and can, for the most part, be used interchangeably. Do not confuse these with wormwood, Artemesia absinthium, also in this book. They are in the Aster/Daisy Family and are native to Eurasia and naturalized in North America. Identification: Common Mugwort grows from 3 to 6 feet (0.9m to 1.8m) tall with an erect upright stem that has a purple or dark reddish-brown tinge that becomes woody with age. It is often found in disturbed areas, along roadsides, and at the edges of woods and sunny meadows. Common Mugwort leaves are deeply lobed, alternate, and grow to about 4 inches (10 cm) in length. The largest leaves are at the base of the plant, and leaves become smaller and narrower towards the top of the stem. The topside of the leaf is green and is often (but not always) hairless, while the underside is white or silvery with fine hairs (versus wormwood, which has leaves that are silvery on both the top and bottom). The deeply cut lobes are narrow and have smooth edges. The leaves are slightly aromatic. Its flowers are very small, non-showy, reddish-brown or yellow disk flowers that bloom in late summer/early autumn. The flowering stems grow to about 3 feet (0.9m) tall and have hair only on the upper stems. They primarily propagate via rhizomes. Edible Use: Mugwort leaves are eaten raw or cooked but are usually used as an herb, not as a side dish. They are slightly bitter and best eaten before the plant blooms. Young shoots can be cooked. I make tea from the leaves, flowers, and roots. Mugwort can also be used as a flavoring in beer to replace hops. Medicinal Use: I use Mugwort as a tea, tincture or, for external use, an oil. You can wrap and burn the leaves as a smudge stick. The smoke is calming and cleansing and is said to promote good dreams and to clear an area of negative energy. Roll and bind the leaves tightly and set fire to the tip. I use the flowers for oil infusions and the leaves and roots for tinctures and teas. You can also smoke it. Menstrual Issues: Because it helps balance hormones and is an antispasmodic, Mugwort leaf tea is useful for treating menstrual issues. It is slightly toxic, however, and should not be used during pregnancy. Moderate doses are beneficial in balancing the reproductive system. A tea made from the leaves and flowers works well for the treatment of cramping, excessive bleeding, and bringing on menses. The smoke is also used to move a baby from a breech position. Digestive Issues: Mugwort leaf tea or tincture is very beneficial for the digestive system and is healing and restorative for the intestine. It treats constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating, and intestinal worms. It is a natural and gentle laxative that treats the underlying problems by restoring balance. Liver Health: Mugwort increases bile secretion in the liver and helps detoxify the liver and the body. Heart Health: Mugwort promotes healthy circulation in the blood stream. It helps increase blood oxygenation and flow throughout the body. It improves blood cell generation, lessens the chance of blood clots, and lowers blood pressure in hypertension. Respiratory Issues and Asthma: Common Mugwort helps relax bronchial tubes and open airways. It can be made into a leaf tea or the steam can be inhaled to help with bronchial inflammation.