Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a medicinal herb with a wide range of properties which, in Estonian folk medicine, has undeservedly received less attention than its relative wormwood (Artemisia absinthium). In fact, mugwort is very versatile and, unlike wormwood, is not poisonous.
I picked this mighty mugwort in my own garden this year – I did not even have to go far to look for it. In the second half of summer there is still time to gather it.
Mugwort in Ayurveda
According to Ayurveda, mugwort’s effect on the doshas is VK-P+: it reduces vata and kapha and increases pitta. I use mugwort in Ayurvedic herbal blends that are taken internally as a powder.
Mugwort combines extremely well with other medicinal herbs. That is why I add it to individual herbal blends for uterine and digestive problems (candidiasis) and for vata disorders of the nervous system.
The effects of mugwort
- It strengthens the uterus, regulates and promotes menstruation, and relieves period pain and hormonal headaches.
- Together with other medicinal herbs, it is suitable for regulating the menstrual cycle.
- In combination with other herbs, mugwort helps to keep epileptic seizures under control.
- Mugwort’s bitterness cleanses the nerve, menstrual and circulatory channels, and its warming energy keeps vata in check.
External use
A foot bath for fungal infections
Use mugwort tea for fungal infections, including stubborn nail fungus: soak your toes twice a day in an infusion made with a tablespoon of dried mugwort. Prepare the infusion as you would a cup of tea – pour hot water over the mugwort, but do not boil it. Leave it to steep until it has cooled enough for you to put your toes in.
Vaginal rinse
Mugwort tea can also be used as a vaginal rinse for yeast overgrowth or vaginal discharge, provided there is no inflammation.
Estonian herbs according to Ayurvedic principles
I greatly enjoy this wise-woman’s work and am grateful to my teacher Atreya Smith, who taught me to use our own powerful Estonian herbs according to Ayurvedic principles. These ancient principles help to enhance the desired effects of medicinal herbs and reduce the unwanted ones, to heal each person in their individuality, and to relieve symptoms.
A herbal blend is always put together individually – we will create the one that suits you at an Ayurvedic health consultation.