Artemisia vulgaris
Herbaceous perennial
Zones 3-9
Mugwort is an aromatic herb that has a rich history across various cultures for its medicinal, spiritual, and culinary ingredients since the iron age. This herb has an association with lunar cycles, and the capacity to enhance spiritual experiences. Commonly found in foods and drinks, and remains a common ingredient in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean traditional medicine, leaves used directly as a food, or to obtain oil extracts, tinctures, or burned in a moxibustion. The downy hairs on the underside of the leaves when scraped off and used as an effective tinder.
Medicinal properties
Mugwort’s anti-inflammatory properties can reduce pain and swelling in various areas of the body, including joints and muscles. It can help alleviate indigestion, bloating, and abdominal cramps. This plant contains antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties, which may help protect against infections and promote skin health. It is extremely helpful as a topical for eczema, psoriasis, and sensitive skin types where itching is common. Mugwort reduces redness and promotes wound healing, supports digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes, easing bloating, and promoting healthy gut flora. It has properties that may help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual cramps, and alleviate symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Mugwort contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which can help protect the body against oxidative stress and cellular damage caused by free radicals. Helps relaxation and improves sleep quality.
Cultivation, Harvesting, and Storage
Sow mugwort in the spring or late winter. You can plant by direct sowing or by starting seeds indoors and then transplanting them outside. Plant directly into the soil when there is still frost expected. During spring planting, consider cold stratifying. During winter, its growth will die back. Mugwort can spread aggressively through the rhizomes. It can become invasive. Mugwort grows upright and forms dense mats and colonies with their rhizomes. Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Loves to grow in well drained soils and grows poorly in wet conditions. When mugwort flowers in July to September, the leaves and buds need harvested. The top third of the plant can be cut. Hang bundles upside down in a warm, dry place with good air circulation for one to two weeks or lay the leaves in a single layer on a screen or paper-lined tray in a shady, airy spot. Alternatively, use a dehydrator set to \(95-100^\circ} F\) (\(35-38^\circ} C\)). The leaves are completely dry when they are brittle and crumble easily. Store in airtight glass jars.
Warnings
Mugwort, considered safe for most people, poses risks, particularly for pregnant individuals and those with allergies. Mugwort contains a compound called thujone. It can be toxic in large doses. Consume mugwort in moderation and avoid excessive use. Individuals who are allergic to ragweed, celery, or birch may experience allergic reactions.
