Mugwort

Artemisia vulgarisKingdom: PlantaeSubclass: AsteridaeOrder: AsteralesFamily: Asteraceae- Aster familyGenus: Aremisia L.- sagebrushSpecies: Artemisia vulgaris·Other NamesArtemisa, Carline Thistle, Chiu Ts'Ao, Common Mugwort, Douglas Mugwort, Felon herb, Sailor’s tobacco, Wormwood, Old Woman, Mugwort, Moxa, Traveler’s Herb, Artemis Herb, Felon Herb, Muggons, Old Man, Cingulum Sancti Johannis aka St. John’s plant (NOT St. Johnswort), Ai ye or Hao-shu, , Cronewort, , Wild Chrysanthemum, Armoise, Chrysanthemum Weed, Muggons, Naughty Man , Old Man , Old Uncle Henry, AboutMugwort is a shrubby perennial, with dark green deeply indented leaves and with several clusters of small reddish or yellow flower heads.It grows frequently and wildly on hedges and waysides in most parts of England.It is a tall-growing plant (up to 3 ft, or 1 m in height)The stems are angular and often of a purplish hue.The leaves are smooth and of a dark green tint on the upper surface, but covered with a dense cottony down beneath and may be as long as 4 in (10

cm). They are deeply divided with numerous lance-shaped, pointed segments. They are arranged alternately along the erect, grooved stemThe flowers are in small oval heads with cottony clusters and are either reddish or pale yellow, in long spikes at the top of the plantMugwort is closely allied to the Common Wormwood, but may be easily distinguished by the leaves being white on the under-surfaces only and by the leaf segments being pointed, not blunt. It lacks the essential oil of the Wormwood.Mugwort has a pungent aroma when the leaves are crushed..This herb has naturalized and spread throughout America. It can be found growing wild in rocky soils, along streams, embankments, and in rubble and other waste places.It can be found particularly in Eastern States and in some areas such as North Carolina and Virginia, it has been classed as a noxious weed.It is often grown in Moon gardens.

FOLKLOREArtemisia douglasiana was named after a Scottish botanist. The Scottish botanist was named David Douglas (1798-1834) who made many trips to the Americas. He identified many California species of plants. It has historical ancestors going all the way back into the Quaternary age of the world. Fossils of plant have been found to have the same stem composites as the sage family. There are many theories as to how this plant was named. One is that it was added to beer before hops for seasoning (drinking out of mugs). Another is that it was named such because it is good at keeping moths out of clothes and areas (globalherbalsuppli es.com).It is said to have derived its name from being used to flavor drinks. It was used to a great extent for flavoring beer before the introduction of hops. For this purpose, the plant was gathered when in flower and dried (the fresh herb being considered unsuitable for this object) malt liquor was then boiled with it so as to form a strong decoction, and the liquid thus prepared was added to the beer. Until recent years, it was still used in some parts of the country to flavour the table beer brewed by cottagers.It has also been suggested that the name, Mugwort, may be derived not from 'mug,' the drinking vessel, but from moughte (a moth or maggot), because from the days of Dioscorides, the plant has been regarded, in common with Wormwood, as useful in keeping off the attacks of moths. The Name Artemisia is from the Goddess Artemis (1st century AD) who inspired

the plants genus name. Mugwort played a large role in Native American folklore .It was smoked, drank and burned for rituals. It was believed if one were to rub their bodies with the leaves that the odor would keep away ghosts. It was rubbed the leaves on ones body to keep ghosts away or wearing a necklace to prevent dreaming of the dead. Mugwort has been known since the ancient times. Roman centurions used mugwort inside their sandals, so that their feet could remain in great shape. They planted mugwort by roadsides where it would be available to passersby to put in their shoes to relieve aching feet. Ancient Europeans and Asians in treating various ailments.The wise Chinese have been using mugwort for centuries now, and one of its best known uses is in the ancient art of acupuncture, where the heat from a burning roll of chopped mugwort leaves in the shape of a cigar is applied on certain selected points on the patient’s body. This therapy is used as one of the main ingredients in ‘moxa’ or ‘moxibustion’. Egyptians also used mugwort, and it was always recommended that pregnant women DO NOT use it (as an ingestion) because it was known to cause women to miscarry, which is also why it helped induce labour. Lucid dreams and hallucinations where possible if they drank in form of a tea. Ingestion of mugwort for 10 consecutive days could also cause illnesses and sometimes deathThe Greek physician Dioscorides of the 1st century AD supposedly stated that the Goddess Artemis used the herb to offer succor to women in the throes of labour and childbirth.The Physicians of Myddfai, a thirteenth century Welsh herbal remedy collection, contains these important words, “"If a woman be unable to give birth to her child let the mugwort be bound to her left thigh. Let it be instantly removed when she has been delivered, lest there should be hemorrhage. Similarly, an eighteenth century Spanish herbalist, Diego de Torres is known to have said that using an application of mugwort as a plaster below the woman’s navel would induce labor in the woman. In the Middle Ages a crown made from its sprays was worn on St. John's Eve to gain security from evil possession.The plant was known as Cingulum Sancti Johannis, as it was believed that John the Baptist wore a girdle of it in the wilderness- a crown made from its sprays was worn on St. John's Eve to gain security from evil possession. In Holland and Germany if gathered on St. John's Eve it gave protection against diseases and misfortunes.There were many superstitions connected with it: it was believed to

preserve the wayfarer from fatigue, sunstroke, wild beasts and evil spirits generally. Mugwort oil can be used as anointing oil for its connection to Artemis and the lunar cycles. Anglo-Saxon tribes believed that the aromatic mugwort was one of the nine sacred herbs given to the world by the god Woden. Mugwort is considered a magical herb, with special properties to protect road-weary travellers against exhaustion. Culpepper directs that the tops of the plant are to be used fresh gathered, and says: a very slight infusion is excellent for all disorders of the stomach, prevents sickness after meals and creates an appetite, but if made too strong, it disgusts the taste. The tops with the flowers on them, dried and powdered, are good against agues, and have the same virtues with wormseed in killing worms. The juice of the large leaves which grows from the root before the stalk appears is the best against the dropsy and jaundice, in water, ale, wine, or the juice only. The infusion drank morning and evening for some time helps hysterics, obstruction of the spleen and weakness of the stomach. Its oil, taken on sugar and drank after, kills worms, resists poison, and is good for the liver and jaundice. eyes like the leaves, hence the root should be accounted among the best stomachics. The oil of the seed cures quotidians and quartans. Boiled in lard and laid to swellings of the tonsils and quinsy is serviceable. It is admirable against surfeits. Wormwood and vinegar are an antidote to the mischief of mushrooms and henbane and the biting of the seafish called Draco marinus, or quaviver; mixed with honey, it takes away blackness after falls, bruises, etc.,With Pellitory of the Wall used as poultice to ease all outward pains. Placed among woolen cloths it prevents and destroys the moths.'Another old writer affirmed that Mugwort was good 'for quaking of the sinewsDr. John Hill extols its virtues, and says:'Providence has placed it everywhere about our doors; so that reason and authority, as well as the notice of our senses, point it out for use: but chemistry has banished natural medicines.'

Dioscorides praises this herb, and orders the flowering tops to be used just before they bloom.The dried leaves were, sixty or seventy years ago, in use by the working classes in Cornwall as one of the substitutes for tea, at a time when tea cost 7s. per lb., and on the Continent Mugwort is occasionally employed as an aromatic culinary herb, being one of the

green herbs with which geese are often stuffed during roasting.Sheep are said to enjoy the herbage of the Mugwort, and also the roots. The plant may, perhaps, be the Artemesia of Pontos, which was celebrated among the ancients for fattening these animals. It is said to be good for poultry and turkeys.Mugwort was used in concoctions to treat rheumatism. Later in European history, Mugwort was used as a nervine to ease the symptoms of epilepsy and palsy. It has also been used as a uterine stimulant and treatment for amenorrhea, especially in conjunction with Cramp Bark. Mugwort has also been used in the treatment of constipation, depression, anxiety, and vomiting. Recently, research has focused on the antibacterial and antifungal properties of Mugwort. In addition to its healing properties, Mugwort is also a good natural source of Vitamin C, beta carotene, fiber, calcium, zinc, and Quercetin.

MAGICKALMugwort is a versatile sacred herb.It can be used for spiritual cleansing, protection, healing, and consecration, and it can aid dream work, trance, and intuitive development.Associated with the Full Moon and with the Summer Solstice since ancient times, Mugwort also is suitable for rituals year round.It can be used as a ritual tool in many ways- a garland crown, or ritual head wreath, can be easily fashioned from one or more freshly cut Mugwort stalks.Make a Mugwort smudge stick. Wave the burning smudge stick back and forth to move the smoke around to consecrate the ritual place and participants.Fresh or dried leaves, flowers, and sprigs of Mugwort can be used as an offering in personal and group rituals. Leave Mugwort offerings at a shrine, place on the ground, or cast into a sacred fire.Use dried, sturdy, mature stalks that are at least 1/4 inch thick to make a scared wand. Dip the Mugwort aspersing wand into a chalice or bowl of ritual water, and then flick water droplets onto the place, ritual objects, or participants for consecration. Dried Mugwort stalks can be burned in combination with Oak and other sacred woods in ceremonial fires. Dried Mugwort leaves and flowers also are good additives to sacred fires.Make a Mugwort sachet or pillow, smell its fragrance as you do an affirmation to bless sleep, guide dreaming, and aid dream recall and interpretation upon awaking. Mugwort is most famous for it’s use as

a "Dream" herb. It is known to enhance dreaming, both in sleep and in Shamanic Journeying and other trance work. It is said to enhance whatever level of dreaming one is developed in. For example, if one can not remember one’s dreams, Mugwort will enhance and help the individual to develop this. If one is at the next level of dreaming, cognitive dreaming Mugwort will enhance this. The final level is precognitive dreaming; dreaming of future events. No matter what level one is dreaming Mugwort will help you to develop your abilities. But beware, for until you become proficient your dreams may, at first, be difficult to deal with. Don’t be discouraged; practice makes perfect. If you desire you might study under an experienced Dreamer or Shaman. Keeping a journal would be advantageous. Some people say that their dreams become "Technicolor" after taking Mugwort.Toss into a burning fireplace or wood stove and it will protect you from lightening; though if you simply burned it in the fire place or stove by itself I would think you would get the same effect

For use in scrying, place some Mugwort potion in a dark colored ritual bow and meditatively gaze into it in subdued light. Mugwort is also burned with sandalwood or wormwood during scrying rituals, and a Mugwort infusion is drunk (sweetened with honey) before divination.The infusion is also used to wash crystal balls and magic mirrors, and Mugwort leaves are placed around then base of the ball (or beneath it) to aid in psychic workings. It is useful in aiding clairvoyant potential in that it helps relax and still your analytical mind, therefore letting your subconscious mind bring forth creative visions. Mugwort can also be used for scrying the Tattwa Cards, Tarot and for astral projection. It is best to cut Mugwort in the waning moon for scrying purposes and, of course, just before it has flowered so it is at its most potent. Store dry herb with your scrying tools as well as any tools you use for Dreaming/Journey work, such as drums, beater sticks and rattles. Oil made from fresh can be used to anoint these objects also. An infusion (strong tea) can be used to wash them. Placed next to the bed it aids in achieving astral projection. In addition, Mugwort also can be used as a sacred flavoring in ritual brews and foods. At the culmination of a home blessing rite, hang a fresh Mugwort sprig above the main door into your home for protection and good fortune. Hang a Mugwort sprig or wreath above your bed to bless sleep and dreaming. Mugwort has

many uses as charms. Fill an amulet bag with Mugwort, energize it, and wear it around your neck for healing, spiritual growth, and intuition. Put a pouch of Mugwort in the glove compartment of your vehicle or hang a Mugwort amulet bag from your rear view mirror to bless your travels. In addition, Mugwort can be combined with other ingredients in making amulets and charms for a variety of purposes. Grow Mugwort in a ritual garden. Create a year round ceremonial circle with a Mugwort hedge. Grow Mugwort next to your home to bless and protect it. Meditate and commune with living Mugwort for relaxation, healing, and inspiration. Place Mugwort in the shoes to gain strength during long walks or runs. For this purpose pick Mugwort before sunrise, saying: Tollam te artemesia, ne lassus sim in via.According to ancient tradition, when carrying Mugwort you cannot be harmed by poison, wild beasts or sunstroke. In a building, Mugwort prevents 'dark elves' and 'evil things' from entering, and branches ofMugwort are used in Japan by the Ainus to exorcise spirit's of disease who are thought to hate the odor.In China, it is hung over the doors to keep evil spirits from buildings. Mugwort is also carried to increase lust and fertility, to prevent backache, and to cure disease and madness. Placed next to the bed it aids in achieving astral projection. It is a Moon herb, intensely cleansing, and can be used for anything relating to divination, healing, and purification. Though Cunningham refers to her as an Earth energy plant she is known as a Moon plant also in regards to her sacredness to Artemis (Dianna) who is a Moon Goddess. Also from her assistance in woman’s Menstrual/Moon cycles. Gladstar recommends it as a Dream Herb during a woman’s Moon Time. Mugwort and the other Artemisias, , are named after Artemis, the Greek moon goddess, identified with the Roman Diana. Artemis revived plants each night with her refreshing dew, while her twin brother Apollo, the sun god, sent the sun’s rays, both essential to the growth and wellbeing of the plant world. As the moon goddess, Artemis was regarded as the patron and protector of women, to influence their fertility, regulate their menstrual cycles and to watch over them in childbirth. For thousands of years women giving birth have evoked her aid and given prayers and offerings to ensure a safe delivery, and given thanks to her afterward.The healing power of the plants named after Artemis reflects her influence in the sphere of

women’s health, and explains why ever since the time of Hippocrates, Pliny and Dioscoride mugwort has been considered the female remedy par excellenceIt would be a good herb to burn before casting runes due to the association with the Anglo-Saxon “Nine Herbs Charm”Crowley attributes Mugwort to Number 13. It is therefore harmonious with ideas such as Luna, the High Priestess, Hecate, Silver-bluish- greenish colors, moonstone, pearl and crystal. The number 13 is the number of Witchcraft of the dark variety - I don't mean negative, but of the waning and dark moonIn Hoodoo Folk Magic, Spell-Craft, and Occultism it is said to provide safety and protection on journeys and make them more pleasant by eliminating any interference. It also is said to be beneficial for those practicing a variety of psychic, visionary work, scrying and crystal gazing. A tea is made by many to cleanse crystals and it is burned on charcoal to bring forth protective spirits.GENDER : Feminine.PLANET : Venus.ELEMENT : Earth.DEITIES : Morrigan , Artemis, Áine, VenusPOWERS : Strength, Psychic Powers, Protection, Prophetic Dreams, Healing ,Astral ProjectionHabitat and growing conditions:Grows almost everywhere around the world. .Can be intrusive in a garden. Grows up to 8 feet in The Garden. Look for it that tall as well as low as 18" in city lots and road sides.Growing the HerbMugwort grows easily from cuttings taken in Winter. It likes to grow where there is a damp place - it likes to keep its toes wet. It has long thin leaves, green on the top and silver underneath and it reaches about three feet tall. The taste is rather bitter, but I like it.It can be grown almost anywhere! It can be grown with some care and it really is a fascinating herb with many great uses! It's a herb that can tower up to 10 foot in the right conditions. It's hard to resist growing at least one plant if you love herbs.Mugwort grows in most soils and in any location. It's very drought tolerant and adaptable to almost any conditions. It's reputation for being invasive is deserved, BUT if you grow it, harvest it before it goes to seed and keep an eye on it, you should be okay. It's sort of a catch-22 with an herb like mugwort. You can put it in the soil, and

let it go on its merry way, and it will grow without any attention to its needs, but at the same time it will spread until something or someone stops it.You can grow it from seed or buy one (just one) plant to start you on your way. The seeds need light to germinate, and will need to be kept at 45 degrees or so for a couple of weeks in order to encourage germination. The refrigerator will work for this. Take them out after the chilling period and place them in a bright, warm location until germination.

Harvesting:

* Mugwort is harvested just as the plant comes into flower, before the blossoms are fully open . For medicinal, metaphysical and culinary purposes cut stems with leaves early in the day; after the sun has burned the dew off but before the heat of the day. Always feel free to attune to the individual plant as to when it is the optimal time for harvest; keeping in mind if the plant is damp it can easily get mouldy when drying.The leaves are removed from the stalks and dried on paper-lined trays in a light, airy room, away from direct sunlight. The flowerheads should be dried intact and the dried herb stored in clearly-labelled, tightly-sealed, dark glass containers

Drying:Can be dried for either medicinal, metaphysical, culinary or ornamental purposes.

* Take bundles of stems with leaves and remove the lower leaves for about 3 – 4".* Do not wash in water; if they are wet they are likely to get mouldy.* Check over the plants for obvious dirt and insects. and remove those leaves.* Take several bundles (not too many or there will not be enough air circulation) , tie with string or a rubber band and hang upside down in a cool room out of direct light. Normal room temperature is fine; just no hot dry rooms or damp rooms. It will take several days to a week or so to dry completely. You may leave them there longer, as they are very attractive but not so long that they become dirty with dust or become too dry.

* Take the bundles down, when dry, and pull off the leaves and place in a large bowl. "Scrunch" the leaves up to crumble them some and then place in air tight glass jars.* Store in a room or cupboard out of direct light in a dry room.

HEALINGMugwort has stimulant and slightly tonic properties, and is of value as a nervine and emmenagogue, having also diuretic and diaphoretic action. Specifically, mugwort may help to:-

* Anxiety, stress, insomnia* Asthma* Bacterial and fungal infections* Diarrhea, cramps, intestinal gas* Epilepsy* Fever* Headache* Irritability, restlessness* Menopause symptoms* Menstrual complaints* Mild depression* Muscle spasms* Persistent vomiting* Skin inflammation* Tapeworms and other worms

It is a common ingredient in herbal smoking blends, along with coltsfoot and passionflowerActions:· antibacterial,· anthelmintic,· anti-inflammatory,· antiseptic,· antispasmodic,· carminative,· cholagogue,· diaphoretic,· digestive,· diuretic,

· emmenagogue,· expectorant,· haemostatic,· nervine,· purgative,· stimulant,· stomachic,· tonic, cleansing toxins from the blood.

Properties:

· Chologogue,· vermifuge,· emmenagogue,· hemostatic,· antispasmodic,· diaphoretic,· mild narcotic,· bitter narcotic.· Woman’s Moon· Dream Herb.

Body Systems affected:

· Spleen,· kidney,· liver

As an infusion: Mugwort can be taken to treat menopausal syndrome.As a bitter: Mugwort can be used to cool the digestive tract in fever management.As a decoction: Mugwort can be used to make a warming tea for menstrual pain: 5 g mugwort can be combined with an equal amount of dry ginger to make the tea.As a tincture: Mugwort can be used for effectively treating menstrual pain, prolonged bleeding, scanty menses and other related disorders. The herb can be used as a stimulant for treating liver stagnation and slow digestion. In childbirth it can be used for prolonged labour and for the treatment of retained placenta

It is given in infusion, which should be prepared in a covered vessel, 1 OZ. of the herb to 1 pint of boiling water, and given in 1/2 teaspoonful doses, while warm. The infusion may be taken cold as a tonic, in similar doses, three times daily: it has a bitterish and aromatic taste.As a nervine, Mugwort is valued in palsy, fits, epileptic and similar affections, being an old-fashioned popular remedy for epilepsy (especially in persons of a feeble constitution) . Gerard says: 'Mugwort cureth the shakings of the joynts inclining to the Palsie;' and Parkinson considered it good against hysteria. A drachm of the powdered leaves, given four times a day, is stated by Withering to have cured a patient who had been affected with hysterical fits for many years, when all other remedies had failed.The juice and an infusion of the herb were given for intermittent fevers and agues. The leaves used to be steeped in baths, to communicate an invigorating property to the water.Mugwort has a large number of uses, and has been traditionally used to treat digestive disorders, and it has also been used as a tonic for various remedies. It is known to be milder in action than most other species of Artemisia, and this means that it can be taken for improving appetite, digestive functions, and absorption of nutrients over long periods of time, in small dosages. The elimination of worms within the body is achieved, and whenever needed, it can be used to induce menstruation as well.In Europe, mugwort is assumed to be a uterine stimulant, but this idea is in direct opposition to the Chinese concept of using mugwort to preventmiscarriage in a woman, and also to reduce and to stop excessive and heavy menstrual bleeding.The herb is also widely used as an antiseptic, and is known to provide relief in cases of malaria.Mugwort leaves are edible, young leaves are boiled as a pot herb or used in salad, they aid in digestion although said to have a bitter taste. The leaves have an antibacterial action, inhibiting the growth of Staphococcus aureus, Bacillus typhi, B. dysenteriae, streptococci, E. coli, B. subtilis, and pseudomonas. A weak tea made from the infused plant is a good all-purpose insecticide.An infusion of the leaves and flowering tops is used in the treatment of all matters connected to the digestive system, it increases

stomach acid and bile production, eases gas and bloating, improving digestion, the absorption of nutrients and strengthening the entire digestive system.It is used in alternative medicine to expel intestinal worms, nervous and spasmodic affections, asthma, sterility, functional bleeding of the uterus and menstrual complaints, and diseases of the brain.As a gargle for sore throat, a wash for sores and a poultice for infections, tumours and to stop bleeding. These actions and uses are now backed by scientific studies on the plants main constituents volatile oils containing 1,8-cineole, artemisin, azulenes sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids, coumarin derivatives, tannins, thujone and triterpenes. The fresh or the dried plant repels insects.An excellent nervine. Used for insomnia and nervousness.

Mugwort is considered feminine in nature and has been linked through out history has been used as remedy for women’s health. It is an emmenagogue; promotes suppressed menses. Drink before and after the full moon and wear red (Gladstar). Useful for young women just starting menses. Believed to increase fertility. It regulates the menstrual cycle and easing the transition to menopause. It increases blood circulation to the pelvic area and uterus and stimulates menstruation. It is a useful remedy for painful and irregular menstruation. A compress of the herb has been used to help promote labor and assist with expulsion of the afterbirth.Used in treatment of liver disorders and as a digestive aid (digestive bitter). Drink infusion before and/or after eating to promote digestion.Promotes sweating. Which can be a benefit when intentionally sweating out an illness; a very old healing technique when one first feels the effects of an illness.Strong infusion can be used in a bath for an invigorating bath or one before Ritual or Dreaming.Culinary: One of the first herbs to be used to brew beers. Dried leaves only. Apparently fresh leaves make a horrible tasting beer.Mugwort leaf and stem are used medicinally. Mugwort acts as a bitter digestive tonic, uterine stimulant, nervine, menstrual regulator, anti-rheumatic, for depression and to stimulate the appetite.Its antispasmodic action may relieve persistent vomiting, and has been used in the treatment of epilepsy.Mugwort added to bath water is an aromatic and soothing treatment

for relief of aches in the muscles and joints.In a clinical trial, crushed fresh mugwort leaves applied to the skin were shown to be effective in eradicating warts.. The dried herb has also been smoked as a nicotine-free tobacco.A species of mugwort (A. douglasiana) , common in the southwestern United States, was used by some western Native Americans as a prevention for poison oak rash. The fresh mugwort leaf was rubbed over areas of exposed skin before walking into poison oak habitat. The two plants often grow near one another.In Chinese medicine mugwort, known as Ai ye or Hao-shu is highly valued as the herb used in moxibustion, a method of heating specific acupuncture points on the body to treat physical conditions. Mugwort is carefully harvested, dried and aged, then it is shaped into a cigar-like roll. This "moxa" is burned close to the skin to heat the specific pressure points. It has been used in this way to alleviate rheumatic pains aggravated by cold and damp circumstances. Mugwort has also been used in various size cones that are places on the skin directly or on top of an herb or some salt and burned. In Japan, some practitioners only use moxa for treatment.A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reported on the successful use of moxibustion in reversing breech birth positions. The study found that 75% of 130 fetuses had reversed their position after moxibustion treatment of the mother. The technique is said to stimulate the acupuncture point known as BL67, located near the toenail of the fifth toe, stimulating circulation and energy flow and resulting in an increase in fetal movements.In Chinese medicine, mugwort is ingested to stop excessive or inappropriate menstrual bleeding.For infusion, 1 oz of fresh mugwort leaf, less if dried, is placed in a warmed glass container. One pint of fresh, nonchlorinated boiling water is added to the herb. The mixture is covered to prevent loss of volatile oils. The tea should be infused for five to 10 minutes. A mild infusion is best. After straining, it is recommended to drink two cups of mugwort tea per day. Use should be discontinued after six days.Four ounces of finely-cut fresh or powdered dry herb can be combined with 1 pt of brandy, gin, or vodka, in a glass container. The alcohol should be enough to cover the plant parts and have a 50/50 ratio of alcohol to water. The mixture should be kept in a dark place for about two weeks, shaking several times each day. It can

then be strained and stored in a tightly capped, dark glass bottle. Dosage recommendations vary, with some herbalists cautioning against ingestion of mugwort in medicinal preparations.In traditional Chinese medicine , the herb is burned slightly in a pan before simmering with other herbs to stop menstrual bleeding.As a diuretic mugwort is useful for fluid retention, particularly around period time. It also helps elimina tion of toxins via the urine, thereby acting as a blood cleanser and making it helpful in treatment of arthritis and gout.

Like wormwood, mugwort is an excellent bitter tonic, stimulating the appetite and enhancing digestion by increasing secretion of digestive enzymes and bile from the liver and gall bladder. It can be used to expel worms. It makes a good remedy for those with a weak, sluggish digestion, toxins and congestion in the gut, liver problems and those feeling run down and debilitated and during convalescence.As an antispasmodic it relaxes spasm of the intestinal muscles and helps relieve colic, diarrhea, constipation, intestinal spasm and indigestion. Mugwort has mildly sedative properties and has a beneficial effect generally on the nervous system. It has been used for centuries for epilepsy, nervousness, fright and convulsions. . It was also used for problems of nervous origin, such as nausea, vomiting, colic, indigestion or diarrhea.

In Ayurvedic medicine, mugwort has been used for female reproductive system disorders, nervous conditions, and as a wash for fungal infections such as athlete's foot.Mugwart relieves gastric disorders and bowel complaints and pain. A mild infusion of mugwort is useful as a digestive stimulant, and eases nervous and sluggish digestion, dyspepsia, stomach acidity, travel sickness, and indigestion.It is helpful in cases of mild depression and nervous tension. A weak infusion of mugwort has sedative properties that may quiet restlessness and anxiety. Its antispasmodic action may relieve persistent vomiting, and has been used in the treatment of epilepsy.By adding mugwart to bath water it is used as a soothing treatment for relief of aches in muscles and joints. In a clinical trial, crushed fresh mugwort leaves applied to the skin were shown to be effective in eradicating warts.

Taken as an infusion, mugwort is helpful in ridding the system of pinworm infestation. Mugwart was used to ease rheumatism and is still used for acupuncture points on the skin.A species of mugwort (A. douglasiana) , common in the southwestern United States, was used by some western Native Americans to prevent them from getting poison oak rash. The fresh mugwort leaf was rubbed over areas of exposed skin before walking into areas infested with poison oak.Mugwort is also a natural insect repellent and has been utilized in clothes closets as protection against moths.Mugwort is available in capsules, tinctures, and oils. The dried herb has also been smoked as a nicotine-free tobacco.

SIDE EFFECTS OF MUGWORT:Since mugwort is a uterine stimulant, it should not be used by pregnant women, and it is not recommended for nursing mothers.Overuse (many times the recommended dosage) or prolonged use should be avoided, as it is toxic in large doses.Call your health care practitioner if you experience any of these possible side effects of mugwort:

* skin inflammation* symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as chest tightness, wheezing, hives, itching, and rash.

Mugwort can strongly stimulate the uterus.

InteractionsCombining herbs with certain drugs may alter their action or produce unwanted side effects. Don't use mugwort while taking blood thinners such as Coumadin.Important points to remember

* Don't use mugwort if you're pregnant or breast-feeding.* Avoid this herb if you have a bleeding disorder or acid reflux disease.* Don't use mugwort if you've ever had an allergic reaction to mugwort or if you're allergic to hazelnuts.* Be aware that mugwort pollen is a known allergen that contributes to hay fever in some people.

Flower Essence: Artemisia douglasiana, a close relative of Artemisia vulgaris is used. Used for clarity in dream work. Helps us to interpret our dreams and merge the knowledge and insights gained in dreams and any spiritual/magickal work into our every day lives. Helps to regulate menstrual cycles in time with the Moon. Add to massage oil and worked into the womb area to ease childbirth and menstrual problems.

Homeopathic: Artemisia vulgaris. Epilepsy, petit mal, hysteria, over excitement and fright, sleepwalking, some types of dizziness. Irregular, painful or scanty menses. Prolapsed uterus. To prevent miscarriage with severe cramping.

HOW IT WORKS IN THE BODYThe Chinese and Europeans use the herb for disorders and malfunctions in the reproductive system, and when properly used, the herb can bring on the onset of menstruation. The Chinese use the herb to warm the body, and to stop bleeding when the cycle is too long. It is also used to stop uterine bleeding brought on by certain deficiencies, in which case the herb cools the body. A cool or cold womb is thought to be the cause of infertility in a woman, and mugwort can be used to treat this condition as well. It can also, if used properly, stop a miscarriage from taking place, although this can only be done under the supervision of a qualified medical or herbal practitioner. Menstrual pain can be alleviated successfully with the help of mugwort, and when it is used externally in the form of a moxa stick on specific acupuncture points, it can even help turn a breech baby around in the womb. Chinese mugwort is found to be often acrid, bitter and warm.

Chemical ConstituentsThujone, cineole. A volatile oil. Acrid resin and tannin.Mugwort contains a volatile oil, a sesquiterpene lactone, flavonoids, coumarin derivatives, and triterpenesMain constituents

The essential oil (0.03 to 0.3%) contains a wealth of different terpenes and terpene derivatives, e.g., 1,8 cineol, camphor, linalool, thujone, 4-terpineole, borneol, α-cardinol and further mono- and sesquiterpenes. Quantitative and qualitative composition varies strongly with soil, climate, fertilizing, and harvest time. Thujone is a close relative of mugwort, southern wood. It is commonly hold responsible for the toxicity of wormwood-flavoured alcoholics, particularly absinthe, the drug of the age in France a hundred years ago (Fin de siècle). Absinthe was a potent liqueur flavoured withanise, fennel, plenty of wormwood and other plants; it was drunk together with water and sugar. The high alcohol content and the thujone both contributed to its psycho-active properties. Since chronic consume resulted in severe nerve damage, absinthe was banned in nearly all European countries, with the exception of Portugal and Spain. Liqueurs based solely on anise (Pernod, Pastis) could establish themselves as alternatives for absinthe.As wormwood taste intensively bitter, it is almost impossible to incorporate quantities sufficient for thujone poisoning by accident. Even if the thujone is separated from the bitter absinthin by distillation, the resulting product is still too bitter to drink without sugar. Wormwood-flavoured wine (vermouth) contains only traces of thujone.It's been speculated that mugwort's mild entheogenic effects come from a chemical called thujone, which is the active ingredient in absinthe. However, mugwort contains far too little thujone to seriously cause hallucinations, so this effect is mostly magical rather than pharmacological

Dosage:Metaphysical: Tea or tincture twice daily to enhance your psychic abilities. (see below for amounts)Medicinal: One teaspoon per cup for infusion. 5 – 20 drops tincture.Mugwort can also be smoked for either medicinal or metaphysical purposes.

Type

DosageMugwort Infusion

1 cup 2-3 x dailyMugwort Tincture

20-30 drops 2-3 x daily

USUAL DOSAGEAs a tincture: 1-2 ml or 20-40 drops can be taken two times a day.As an infusion: 100 ml or 4 fl oz can be taken two times a day.The Chinese however use it in dosages of 3 - 9 g or 1/8 - 1/2 oz.

RECIPESProtective Amulet* Purple velvet: 1 rectangle 4 in x 2 in (10 cm x 5 cm)* Freshly picked mugwort that has been dried: approx. 5 g. Sew a small pouch and fill it with the dried mugwort. Carry it in a pocket to protect against all sorts of bad external influences and slide it into your pillow to encourage revelatory dreams.TinctureTo reduce a fever, pour 1½ cups brandy over ¼ cup of dried mugwort. Steep in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid for 4-6 weeks, shaking every few days. Strain. Take 10-20 drops of the tincture up to 3 times daily.Medicinal TeaSteep 1 tsp. dried herb in ½ cup boiling water, take in mouthful doses throughout the dayPowerful Dreams Tea1 tbsp mugwort1 tbsp chamomile1 tbsp rose petals2 tbsp peppermintMakes 1 tea-potful. It is imperative to use boiling water, as well as to add sweetener, because mugwort is very bitter.Another TeaIngredients6 cups Water4 tblsp Dried mugwort3 tsp Black tea leavesPreparation1. Bring water to rapid boil.2. Pour 1 cup of boiling water in a teapot and divide 1 cup of boiling

water into 4 teacups. Swirl the water around in the teapot and cups for a minute to warm them.3. Empty the water from the teapot and cups, place mugwort and tea leaves in the teapot, and pour the remaining water. Steep for 4-6 minutesTeaFor a poor appetite, pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of dried herb. Steep 5-10 min., strain. Drink 1 cup of mugwort tea, unsweetened, about 20 min. before meals. To Make Mugwort IncenseMystic Vision Incense2 parts mugwort, crumbled1 part juniper berries, crushedspoonful of aloeswood or white sandalwoodThis is a loose incense to burn on a coal.Another Mugwort Incense2 tablespoons dried angelica root2 tablespoons dried marshmallow root2 tablespoons dried red clover blossoms and leaves1 tablespoon dried yarrow flowers1 tablespoon mugwort leaves1 teaspoon dried sandalwood powderGrind the angelica and marshmallow to the consistency of coarse coffee grinds with either a mortar and pestle, a coffee grinder, or a spice grinder. Place the herbs in the mortar and add the red clover, yarrow, mugwort, and sandalwood. Crush the mixture together with the pestle, always blending in a counterclockwise direction. Press your intention of banishment or protection into the blend. Pour the mixture into a storage container. Seal the container and allow the powers of the herbs to integrate for a few days. Burn this incense on a charcoal round to chase away unwanted or negative energyMugwort Smudge StickTake fresh mugwort tips and fresh juniper twigs, all around 10 inches long, and make a bundle that you can barely put your hand around. Take a length of plain string and tie it firmly at the base of the bundle, leaving 2 lengths of string to wrap around. Then wrap them around tightly, crisis crossing one another, and wrap them around again back toward the base, and finally tie it off. It will take between 2 days and a week to dry.Poultice

Place the leaves in a bowl with a very small amount of water, and crush it with a wooden spoon or use a mortar and pestle. Once the leaves are mushy, place them on the area that is stinging and it will help relieve the itching, and swelling if that has occurred.Dream PillowsMugwort, hops, lavender, dried rose petals and chamomile are a nice combination for dream pillows.Mix with dry rice or flax seed and make a small flat "pillow" that can be placed with in the pillowcase of a regular pillow.Make a flat square using a piece of cotton material and place this in the pillow. There are many ways to do this. The main thing is to enclose the herbs and be able to place them under the pillow while one sleeps. Mugwort Salve· 8 oz. pure coconut oil· 8 oz. pure cocoa butter· 2 oz. dried mugwort· 1 oz. dried elder flowers· 1 oz. dried comfrey· Cheesecloth· Sieve or mesh strainer· Wooden spoon· Tincture of benzine or vitamin E (optional)· Jars with tightly fitting lids1)Crush your dried herbs lightly with your fingers to help them begin to release their oils. Heat the cocoa butter and the oil over a low to medium flame until they are liquid. Stir with a wooden spoon to combine them.2)Add the dried herbs and simmer them in the oils, covered, over very low heat for no more than 15 minutes. Check the herbs after 10 minutes have elapsed to ensure that they do not burn. When the oil is fragrant and colored, and the herbs appear parched and brittle, remove the pot from heat.3)Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth- lined sieve into several smaller jars that have matching lids.4)Allow the salve to cool uncovered until it becomes semisolid and is at room temperature. Screw on the lids. This mugwort salve, like others of its kind, can remain useful for up to five years.5)Use your prepared mugwort salve by applying it directly to areas of irritated, swollen, burned, or wounded skin to promote healing and

reduce the chance of scarring. It is also effective as a rub for tired, overworked muscles. Store it in a cool place away from excessive heat and light.Tips & WarningsTo help keep this salve fresh, add ½ tsp. of tincture of benzoin or vitamin E just before removing from heat during preparation. Either will act as a natural preservative. You can add one to three tsp. pure aloe vera gel to enhance the skin-soothing properties of this salve.Pour the melted salve carefully to avoid splashing the liquid and causing burns. If burns do occur, use the cooled salve to promote relief.

VinegarTo boost digestion, pour 1 cup of organic apple cider vinegar over ½ cup of fresh or 1/8 cup dried mugwort. Steep in a jar with a tight-fitting lid for 10-15 days, then strain. Take 1 tsp. of the vinegar 3 times daily. Its shelf life is approx. 1 year.Another tea to improve digestion; combine 1 tsp. each of mugwort, angelica, dandelion and gentian roots, fennel seed and orange peel. Pour 1 qt. of boiling water over 1 tbsp. of the blend, steep 10 min. and strain. Drink 1 cup in the morning on an empty stomach; drink the rest throughout the dayMugwort clusters with flower buds still closed, either fresh or dried, can be used for seasoning in place of garden sage.Dried mugwort flowers make fatty dishes more digestible by stimulating the digestive process. Use mugwort for seasoning roast duck or goose, pork and mutton dishes, ground beef and fried fish.A few fresh flowers give added depth to garden and fruit salads, pancakes and quiche.The strong, spicy taste of the plant tends to dominate, so it harmonizes best with only a few other spices. Some of the flavors that combine well with mugwort are pepper, garlic, onions, ginger and most citrus fruits.Mugwort can be dried. Remove the leaves and hang the flowers in bundles in a well-ventilated, warm location. When stored in the dark in an airtight container, mugwort will keep for 1 year.To make a tonic for increasing a poor appetite, add ¾ oz. of the herb to 1 qt. of white wine and allow the mixture to stand in a sealed bottle for 8 days. Strain out the mugwort. Store the wine in a dark location and drink 1 small glass before meals, as needed.

Mugwort is often used with other herbs, including angelica, lovage and gentian, as a flavoring for digestive stomach bitters and aperitifs, such as vermouth.Since mugwort attracts flies, you can hang a few bunches of the herb from the ceiling of a room or a stable to keep irritating insects away from people and animals.

Rice Cake-Yomogi Mochi1 (1.5-ounce) package (2/3 cup) yomogiko (powdered mugwort)1 1/2 cups mochiko (sweet rice flour)1/4 cup white sugar1 1/2 cups waterOil or vegetable sprayKinako (soy flour)Oil or spray an 8-by-8-inch glass baking dish.Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Pour into dish. Place a paper towel over the top of the baking dish; cover loosely with plastic wrap.Microwave on high for 10 minutes, rotating dish twice during cooking.Cool 10 minutes. Cut mochi with a serrated plastic knife. Working quickly, mold mochi with your hands to form small logs and roll in kinako.Makes 24 pieces. Per serving: 50 calories, 0.5 g total fat, 0 saturated fat, 0 cholesterol, 0 sodium, 11 g carbohydrate, 0 fiber, 2 g sugar, 1 g protein

IN SAI BIANGVegetable oil2 cups loosely packed fresh mugwort leavesPinch baking soda1/2 cup sugar1 scant tablespoon vegetable oil1 1/4 CUP RICE FLOUR (NOT SWEET RICE FLOUR, MOCHIKO)1/2 CUP YOMOGIKO (POWDERED MUGWORT)Fill wooden in sai molds with oil; reserve.Boil 3 cups water in a medium-size pot; add pinch of baking soda and then fresh mugwort leaves. Boil leaves for 2 minutes. Drain leaves, reserving liquid.

Process leaves with 1/2 cup reserved cooking liquid in a blender or food processor until finely chopped. Drain in colander, pressing out liquid with back of spoon. Reserve this liquid along with the previous liquid.In a medium-size saucepan, mix together 1 cup reserved cooking liquid from mugwort, sugar, and 1 scant tablespoon oil. Bring to a boil. Turn down heat to low and gradually whisk in the rice flour and yomogiko. Add the boiled mugwort leaves, kneading them in. The dough will be very stiff. Keep stirring and turning the dough over low heat until the flour absorbs the water and the mugwort is distributed throughout the dough; at least 10 minutes. It will be the texture of thick bread dough.Turn the dough out onto an oiled surface, or just oil your hands and work in the cooled pot. Knead the dough 5-10 minutes.Drain molds of oil. Place a steaming pot on the stove, filled with water, and bring to medium heat.Pinch off a ball of dough about 2 inches in diameter and press into mold. Carefully peel cake out of mold and trim with scissors.Place each finished cake on a plate or pan. Once you've used up all the dough, place the pan inside a steaming basket above the simmering water; water must not touch bottom of steaming basket or rack. Place a dish towel on top of the pot and then put on the lid, to prevent condensation from forming and dropping onto the cakes. Steam about 10-15 minutes, keeping the water at a low simmer. Do not allow to boil. Makes about a dozen in sai biang. Per cake: 150 calories, 4.5 g total fat, 0 saturated fat, 0 cholesterol, 15 mg sodium, 25 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 9 g sugar, 2 g protein

These cakes can be kept, covered, at room temperature for a day; refrigerate if you're keeping them longer.You can drink the reserved liquid as a healthful tea, said to be good for liver, digestion and female complaints.

LIN SAI BIANGOil1/2 cup water1 pound Chinese brown slab sugar1 1/2 cups lin sai leaf, washed clean1 cup long-grain rice, soaked in water for 2 hours1/2 CUP WATER

1 pound rice flour (NOT sweet rice flour, mochiko)2 cups water5 tablespoons vegetable oilFill wooden lin sai molds with oil; reserve.Boil together 1/2 cup water and brown sugar until sugar melts. Reserve.Drain rice. Combine lin sai leaf with rice and 1/2 cup water and grind until smooth in blender, about 4 minutes. Reserve.In a bowl, add 2 cups water to 1 pound rice flour, mixing until a smooth paste texture. Slowly add lin sai mixture, combining until smooth. Slowly add sugar mixture, combining until smooth.Place in pot on stove and boil 8 minutes, slowly allowing it to thicken like gravy, mixing until it is like dough. Let stand 15 minutes on low heat, turning occasionally.Allow dough to cool until you can handle it and then turn out on oiled surface. Knead, drizzling 5 tablespoons of vegetable oil onto the dough and kneading it in, until dough is smooth.Drain molds of oil. Place a steaming pot on the stove, filled with water, and bring to medium heat.Pinch off a ball of dough about 2 inches in diameter and press into mold. Carefully peel cake out of mold and trim with scissors.Place each finished cake on a plate or pan. Once you've used up all the dough, place the pan inside a steaming basket above the simmering water. Place a towel on top of the pot and then put on the lid, to prevent condensation from forming and dropping onto the cakes. Steam 15-20 minutes, keeping the water at a low simmer. Do not allow to boil.Makes 2 dozen cakes. Per serving: 200 calories, 0 fat, 0 cholesterol, 10 mg sodium, 41 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 18 g sugar, 2 g protein.

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