Mugwort

At a Glance

Common name

Mugwort

Scientific name

Artemisia vulgaris

Family

Asteraceae

Region

Europe

Plant part

Leaves, Flowering tops

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

An erect tall perennial with deeply lobed pinnate dark green leaves with white woolly undersides and tall branching panicles of small reddish-brown rayless flower heads; the leaves and flowering tops are used.

Also known as: Common Mugwort, Ai Ye, Felon Herb

Historical Background

Mugwort has been a protective and dream herb of European, Chinese, and Asian traditions for millennia, burned as moxa in TCM (ai ye) and woven into European midsummer charms. Its aromatic, lobed leaves brew a traditional digestive and dream tea, used with care for its thujone content.

Earliest recorded uses: European, Chinese, and Asian traditions for millennia; a protective dream and digestive herb; in TCM as moxa (ai ye).

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Herbal, slightly bitter, aromatic, green

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Mugwort has a long tradition as a digestive and dream herb; in TCM, moxa (ai ye) is used in moxibustion. Clinical evidence is insufficient and thujone limits internal use. It is not a treatment for digestive disorders, anxiety, or any disease; avoid in pregnancy and epilepsy.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.