Artemisia Vulgaris (Mugwort)

Artemisia Vulgaris (also called Mugwort and common wormwood) is beneficial in diseases related to menstruation, digestion and parasitic infestations. Topical application of leaves acts antiseptic, antibacterial and antimicrobial.

Flowers and leaves of Mugwort are also effective in muscular cramps, asthma, painful periods and uterine disorders.

Basic Information

Botanical Classification (Taxonomy)

Medicinal Parts

• Mugwort root
• Leaves
• Flowers

Medicinal Properties

Artemisia Vulgaris (Mugwort) has following healing properties.

Primary Action

• Antispasmodic
• Anodyne
• Anthelmintic
• Vermifuge
• Carminative
• Emmenagogue
• Antidepressant
• Antiseptic (local application of leaves paste)

Secondary Action

• Expectorant
• Purgative
• Nervine tonic
• Appetizer
• Diaphoretic (inducing perspiration)
• Diuretic

Therapeutic Indications

Artemisia Vulgaris (Mugwort) is helpful in following health conditions.

Brain & Nerves

• Mental fatigue
• General irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
• Restlessness

Lungs & Airways

• Asthma

Digestive Health

• Abdominal colic and cramps
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Parasitic infestations or intestinal worms
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Liver disorders (supportive therapy)

Women Health

• Dysmenorrhea
• Irregular periods

Health Benefits & Medicinal Uses

Mugwort roots are general tonic and boost physical and mental energy. Leaves and flower tops are used for therapeutic purposes. All parts of Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) stimulate the secretion of gastric juices, so they improve digestion. Mugwort also works as liver tonic and increases the bile secretion, which corrects fat metabolism and improves intestinal movements. Thus, Mugwort also help in curing constipation. Mugwort also have sedative, antidepressant and calming action on the mind, which helps in getting rid of all diseases related to mental stress, depression and anxiety.

Dosage

The dosage of Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) varies according to its parts, age of patient and health conditions. The general therapeutic dosage of Mugwort is as follows.

This table represents the single dosage of Mugwort parts. Herbalist can recommend this dosage twice or thrice a day according to health conditions and several other factors.

Caution & Side Effects

Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) in natural form is POSSIBLY SAFE in the Mugwort dosage listed above. The excess dosage can cause several side effects. Some of them are.

• Heartburn (common)
• Acidity
• Acid reflux
• Vertigo (rare)

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Mugwort (Artemisia Vulgaris) is UNSAFE in pregnancy. It can stimulate uterine contractions and increase the chances of bleeding and spotting. It may also have effects on hormones or alter the pregnancy hormones, which may lead miscarriage.

There is a little information available regarding the safety of Mugwort during breastfeeding. It might pass into milk and cause heartburn in infants.

Mugwort allergy

Mugwort pollen are allergens and cause respiratory troubles. In some people, Mugwort can also have allergic reaction. The symptoms of Mugwort allergy are.

• Persistent sneezing
• Burning sensation in the nose (especially with Mugwort smoke)
• Itchy throat
• Swelling on lips
• Hives
• Swollen eyes
• Breathing trouble