The history of herbs is a topic that is quite fascinating to me. Our ancestors once swore by them, and while we don’t consciously rely on them for medicinal purposes as we once have, they are still able to soothe us. Mugwort is one of those mysterious green allies, but what exactly is mugwort, and why has it held such an enduring place in wellness traditions across the world?
Let’s wander into the world of mugwort together, from its fascinating history and earthy aroma to the soothing cup of tea that has earned it a place in many herbal pantries today.
What Is Mugwort?
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a silvery-green perennial herb native to Europe and Asia but now found across much of North America. It belongs to the same plant family as daisies and sunflowers, and while it’s often dismissed as a weed, those who are familiar with itsuses see it as a lesser-known remedy.
In folklore, mugwort was believed to protect travelers from evil spirits and fatigue. Roman soldiers would even place sprigs of it in their sandals to soothe sore feet on long marches. In Chinese and Japanese traditional medicine, mugwort has been used for centuries in moxibustion, a healing technique that involves burning dried mugwort near the skin to stimulate energy flow (VeryWell Health). There’s no doubt that the notion of using this herb for healing spans back centuries.
All in all, this humble herb has always had a way of weaving itself into both the physical and spiritual well-being of people across generations, and while you might not believe in the folklore healing aspects, there are still modern-day applications for mugwort that may benefit you.
The Health Benefits of Mugwort
Mugwort isn’t just steeped in history, it’s rich in wellness benefits, too. Modern herbalists often describe it as a “multi-tasking” herb because it supports digestion, relaxation, and even the dream world.
Here are a few of mugwort’s most talked-about benefits:
1. A Natural Digestive Aid
Mugwort has traditionally been used to ease bloating, cramps, and sluggish digestion. It contains compounds that can help stimulate bile production, which aids in breaking down fats and improving nutrient absorption. If you’ve ever felt heavy after a meal, a small cup of mugwort tea can gently nudge your digestive system back into balance.
2. Calming and Stress-Relieving
While mugwort isn’t as famous as chamomile for relaxation, it has a quality to it that can help the body unwind. Herbalists often recommend it to those who feel mentally cluttered or energetically “stuck.”
3. Menstrual and Hormonal Support
In traditional European herbal medicine, mugwort was known as a “woman’s herb.” It’s thought to encourage a more natural menstrual flow and relieve cramps due to the presence of artemisinin. While more research is needed to fully understand this connection, many women have found gentle comfort in mugwort tea during their cycle.
4. A Herb for Lucid Dreaming
One of mugwort’s most fascinating uses is its connection to dreams. Many who drink mugwort tea before bed report more vivid or lucid dreams. Science hasn’t fully caught up to this phenomenon yet, but it’s believed that certain compounds in mugwort may affect REM sleep, deepening the dream experience.
My Personal Experience with Mugwort
I’m someone who has difficulty sleeping from time to time, and I grew fed up with tossing and turning all night (especially when I had an early morning and long day of work coming up). I tried melatonin, which helped to an extent, but made me feel a lasting grogginess after waking up in the morning. This was when I dove deep into the rabbit hole of teas for relaxation and sleep.
In my search, I found mugwort.
Mugwort seemed like a less than likely choice to me at first. It seemed harder to find in comparison to much popular sleep tea alternatives, like chamomile or lemon balm. But one day, at my local Korean grocery store, it caught my eye: mugwort tea (called ssukcha in Korean).
Curiosity got the better of me, so I brought some home and brewed a small cup that night. The flavor was earthy, and slightly bitter, so I added a splash of my coffee creamer into it. To my surprise, I felt noticeably more relaxed in the evening, and I slept the heaviest I had in weeks that night.
Now, I keep some in my drawer for when the occasional sleepless night strikes me again. It allows me to indulge in my relaxation and helps me drift off to dreamland when I need that extra push.
How to Make Mugwort Tea
Making mugwort tea is simple, but like many herbal brews, the process itself can feel meditative.
You’ll need:
- 1 teaspoon of dried mugwort leaves
- 1 cup of hot water (not boiling)
- Optional: honey, lemon, milk, or creamer to balance the bitterness
Instructions:
- Add the dried mugwort to a tea infuser or directly into your cup.
- Pour hot water over the leaves and let it steep for about 5–10 minutes.
- Strain, sweeten if desired, and sip slowly.
Because mugwort is a strong herb, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. One small cup a few times a week is plenty.
The Benefits of Mugwort Tea
When sipped with intention, mugwort tea can do more than soothe the stomach or calm the mind. Here’s what regular drinkers often experience:
- Better digestion: Especially after heavy or fatty meals.
- A sense of calm: Without the drowsiness that comes from other calming herbs.
- Dream enhancement: Vivid, memorable dreams.
- Menstrual balance: Gentle support for cramping and bloating.
Because mugwort contains antioxidants, it may also support overall cellular health and reduce inflammation.
Safety and Considerations
Like all potent herbs, mugwort should be used with care. It’s not recommended for pregnant individuals, as it may stimulate uterine contractions. Those allergic to ragweed or similar plants may also experience allergic reactions, so always start with small amounts.
If you have existing medical conditions or are taking medication, check with your healthcare provider before adding mugwort to your routine, especially since herbal compounds can interact with medications.
Mugwort and the Modern Pursuit of Calm
We live in a time where stillness feels like a luxury, and that’s exactly why mugwort has made such a strong comeback among herbal enthusiasts. Mugwort is one of those plants that reminds us that a moment of calm is within our reach. It can be as simple as a warm cup of tea before bed.
Disclaimer: This blog shares general wellness tips based on personal experience and research. It is not intended to substitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider before adding anything to your diet, or starting any diet or health routine. Use of any information on this site is at your own risk.