Herbs in My Garden: Mugwort

| 04 April 2010

My friend told me his favorite tale about mugwort the other day. He used to rub it all over his limbs when he went out rock climbing in Santa Barbara to ward off the climber’s enemy, poison oak. When kids didn’t believe him, he’d touch the evil oak after his mugwort dousing and impress all the kids that he had the magic herb to prevent getting poison oak. *The Native Americans knew this lore as well and used mugwort for that same purpose. They also smudged with mugwort in ritual ceremonies, drank mugwort tea for a number of ailments and smoked it instead of tobacco.

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) also known as Moxa or Wild Wormwood has a variety of uses. The Romans wore mugwort in their sandals to protect against fatigue. In Pagan ceremony, a garland or belt of mugwort was worn while dancing around the fire during summer solstice celebrations. The herb was then thrown into the fire to ensure continued protection throughout the coming year.

“Medicinally, acupuncturist burn dried mugwort as moxa on acupuncture points of the body as an alternative to needles. Moxa is known in Chinese medicine to strengthen the blood, stimulate the flow of qi (life energy) and maintain general health, making this extraordinary plant beloved of healers and seers alike.”

Traditionally, fresh mugwort is put in sleep pillows to foster REM sleep and help people remember their dreams. It helps to regulate menstrual periods and bring on delayed or stopped menses. As a nervine, mugwort has a calming effect on the systems of the body.  Mugwort is a known traditional herbal remedy for worms; when used in small dosages over a specified period of time, it can be extremely effective. The herb can also be used as a bitter for improving digestion and increasing the appetite.

If you are out in the wild, you can find mugwort growing in and around its nemesis, poison oak.  Hiking various trails in the county, I’ve come across fresh mugwort in all the gullies and streams that have sprung up after the recent rains. Pick the flowering tops with small pungent cream flowers in mid to late summer for the strongest medicinal qualities.

The roots can also be collected and dried in the autumn. Try picking fresh mugwort and putting it in a muslin bag or pouch with lavender for relaxation. You can add any of your favorite herbs or flowers. Stick the bag under your pillow and see how it improves your sleep and helps you remember your dreams. Mugwort is safe for children too.
*(If you are allergic to poison oak, I don't recommend trying my friend's remedy).