Botanical Overview
Artemisia vulgaris, commonly known as Mugwort or Common Mugwort, belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The plant’s leaf and flower parts are primarily used medicinally. Mugwort is recognized for its aromatic, bitter taste and mild stimulating properties.
Energetics
It is considered warming and drying in nature with bitter and aromatic tastes. The plant energetically has an ascending directionality and functions primarily as a relaxing tonic, influencing the movement of qi in the body.
Primary Actions
- Antispasmodic
- Cholagogue
- Diaphoretic
- Digestive stimulant
- Emmenagogue
- Nervine
- Mild bitter
Indications
Western
- Indigestion
- Bloating
- Flatulence
- Menstrual cramps
- Nervous tension
- Restlessness
Syndromes
- Dyspepsia
- Menstrual irregularities
- Mild anxiety
- Insomnia
- Poor appetite
TCM
- Coldness and pain in abdomen
- Menstrual disorders
Syndromes
- Liver Qi stagnation
- Cold in the uterus
Ayurveda
- Gastric discomfort
- Menstrual imbalance
Syndromes
- Vata disorders
- Kapha imbalance
Unani
- Gastric disturbances
- Female reproductive discomfort
Syndromes
- Mahvi Dystemperament
- Sauda imbalance
Constituents & Mechanisms
Mugwort contains essential oils, flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and volatile oils that contribute to its antispasmodic, digestive, and nervine activities.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 1-2 g dried leaf per cup, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40-60% ethanol, 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Mugwort should be used cautiously during pregnancy due to its emmenagogue effects and is not recommended during lactation without professional advice. Individuals allergic to the Asteraceae family may experience hypersensitivity reactions. High doses may cause neurotoxicity or dermatitis. Potential interactions include additive sedative effects and interference with anticoagulants.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulerships have been reliably sourced for Artemisia vulgaris.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future – Artemisia vulgaris (Mugwort)
- European Medicines Agency (EMA) HMPC – Assessment report on Artemisia vulgaris L., herba
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, Volume 1 – Artemisia vulgaris
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica – Artemisiae Vulgaris (Bensky, Clavey & Stöger)
- Handbook of Medicinal Herbs (Duke, J.A.)