8 Top Medicinal Uses & Benefits Of Artemisia Vulgaris (Mugwort)

Artemisia Vulgaris Plant Description:

Artemisia Vulgaris is an aromatic perennial plant that grows about 2 meters tall and the leaves are about 2.5 to 20 cm long. We can also identify artemisia vulgaris with the numerous flower heads.

It is native to Asia, Temperate Europe, North Africa and Alaska. Here in India, it is not commonly found but few grow it as it is used in garlands often.

The whole plant is used for medicinal purposes and is very easy to grow at home and needs little to no maintenance. An essential oil called artemisia vulgaris essential oil is distilled from the plant and it also has wonderful medicinal uses.

Artemisia Vulgaris Common Names:

Artemisia Vulgaris Traditional Uses:

Traditionally, it is most commonly used for treating menstrual and digestion related problems and also to get rid of intestinal worms.

The leaves are slightly bitter and very aromatic so they are added as a seasoning to certain dishes in small quantities as it adds a nice aroma along with stimulating digestive juices.

The dried leaves are used as a smudge stick and the smoke has a calming effect. The dried leaf sticks also burns for a long time. Here in our place we tie the leaves along with flowers and wear it as a garland on our hair.

Artemisia Vulgaris Chemical Components:

Artemisia Vulgaris Medicinal Uses:

1. For Asthma:

2. Anti Spasmodic Properties:

3. Anti Diarrhea Properties:

4. Anti Malaria Properties:

5. Anthelmintic Properties:

6. Antiseptic Properties:

7. Nervous Problems:

It has a soothing effect on the nerves and can be used as a home remedy for anxiety, restlessness, anxiety, insomnia and depression.

Spiritually, mugwort tea is recommended before sleeping for remembering our dreams (I am not sure whether it works) and if had before meditation, it relaxes us and helps us enter the meditative state easily.

8. Improves Digestion:

Artemisia Vulgaris Dosage:

Artemisia Vulgaris Side Effects:

Mugwort is toxic when used in large doses. Never use it for children and it should not be taken during pregnancy as it can cause uterine contractions. Mugwort pollens are famous allergens and can cause allergies commonly.

Some common symptoms of mugwort pollen allergy are sneezing, swollen eyes and lips, burning sensation in the throat, etc. If you are prone to allergies, it is best not to grow mugwort at home.

5 Top Medicinal Uses Of Artemisia Vulgaris (Mugwort)

1. Artemisia Vulgaris Tea:

To make mugwort tea, take around 1 to 2 grams of dried leaves and flowers in a bowl. Add in a cup of boiling water to it. Let it steep for 5 minutes and then strain. This tea has a calming effect and is a wonderful home remedy for diarrhea, intestinal worms, malaria fever and for asthma.

2. Artemisia Vulgaris For Skin Problems:

Take the fresh leaves, crush them in a mortar and pestle to a fine paste and apply as a poultice on top of rashes and wounds. Since the leaves have anti bacterial properties, it treats the wounds really fast.

3. Artemisia Vulgaris As an Insecticide: 

Mugwort can be steeped in vinegar and used as an insecticide. To make it, take few dried leaves in a dark bottle, add vinegar on top till the leaves are immersed and let it steep for 2 weeks. To use, add a small cup of this vinegar to a litre of water and use it to wipe kitchen tops. It will act as a natural insecticide.

4. Artemisia Vulgaris Smudge Stick: 

Mugwort smells amazing and has a calming smell and is wonderful to use as a smudge stick. To use, first collect dried leaves and once you have enough, tie them into a bundle using a thread. To use, light the smudge stick and enjoy the calming fragrance.

5. Artemisia Vulgaris As a Mulch:

If you have plenty of mugwort growing in your garden, you can cut few stems and use it as a mulch for other plants. It will form a protective covering and will prevent the soil from drying out and will also act as a fertilizer.