Learn the Herbs: Mugwort

What is Mugwort?

Mugwort is a plant native to Europe and east Asia. Also known as Chrysanthemum weed, it has various uses and has been traditionally used as a medicinal herb for a long time. Everything from above the ground to the root is used in the form of essential oils, tea, herbs and medicine.

What are the Benefits of Mugwort?

Mugwort has been attributed to a lot of health benefits by people who have been traditionally using it for centuries.

Some of the common benefits of mugwort include:

• It is consumed to boost energy.
• It promotes the overall blood circulation of the body.
• It also supports the health of the liver.
• It is beneficial for women who are looking to promote their regular menstrual cycles.
• This herb is also used to repel insects.
• Mugwort is also used to improve digestion.

Although mugwort has a lot of health promoting benefits, there is still not enough clinical evidence to support these medical benefits. However, it is used as an alternative by many for the following (not yet proven) benefits:

• For relieving headaches
• For regulating menstrual cycles
• Helps in reducing anxiety
• Aids in fighting fatigue
• To treat common sleep disorders
• Stops diarrhea, vomiting and other conditions like these.
• Cures epilepsy

How is Mugwort Used?

Mugwort is consumed in the form of tonic, dietary supplements, tincture and as herbal tea. It is also used to add flavor to drinks and cuisines such as meat dishes, desserts, soups, beer, and fish. Apart from the medicinal and flavoring uses, mugwort is also taken as a spiritual aid and for moxibustion therapies. It can also act as an insect repellent.

If you are taking mugwort to help with digestive problems and for treating period cramps, you should take mugwort infusion in the form of herbal tea. Take about 1 and a half teaspoon of mugwort leaves and infuse them in boiled water. Let them sit for about 10 minutes, strain the leaves out and drink the tea.

In other cases, you can take mugwort tincture before going to bed in order to benefit from its many properties. If you are taking mugwort for boosting energy, you should consume mugwort tonic.

What are the Side Effects of Mugwort?

Mugwort is said to be banned in some regions as it can cause reactions ranging from a harmless sneeze to rashes, sinus problems and contact dermatitis in few people. However, it is also reported to be harmful for people who have the following allergies:

• Apples
• Sunflowers
• Carrots
• Celery
• Peaches

Pregnant and breast-feeing women are also not advised to consume mugwort in any form. That is because mugwort can trigger menstruation and even cause the uterus to contract, resulting in a miscarriage.

So if you decide to consume mugwort in any way, you should consult your doctor first. Also make sure you are not allergic to any of the foods mentioned above.