Mugwort

Description

Mugwort is the 'Mother of Herbs', a common weed with silvery-backed leaves. It has a deep connection to the moon and dreaming. Roman soldiers put it in their sandals to prevent fatigue. Burned as moxa in TCM to move energy.

Known Formulations

• 🔒 Mugwort Dream Oil (Salve)
• 🔒 Mugwort Tea (Tea)
• ✦ Mugwort Dream Pillow (Remedy)

Medicinal Uses

Used for: Gut/Digestion, Mind/Sleep/Anxiety.

A digestive stimulant and nervine tonic. It regulates menstruation (emmenagogue) and relieves cramping. It is also used to encourage vivid dreaming and aid in nervous depression.

Preparation

Infusion:
Steep 1 tbsp dried herb in 1 cup hot water for 15 mins (covered). For menstrual cycles or dreaming.

Tincture:
Fresh plant 1:2 in 40% alcohol. Macerate 4-6 weeks. Dose: 2-4ml.

Smoke:
Burn dried leaves as incense or smoke before bed.

Astrological Associations

Ruled by the Moon.

Ritual:
Scrying: Make a tea of Mugwort and wash your crystal ball or magic mirror with it. Drink a cup (sweetened with honey) before gazing to open the Third Eye.

Folklore & Myth

Mugwort is the 'Mother of Herbs', revered since Anglo-Saxon times. It was believed to protect travelers from fatigue, sunstroke, and wild beasts if a sprig was placed in the shoe. It is also the primary herb of the 'St. John's Girdle', a belt of herbs worn on Midsummer's Eve to ward off illness and sorrow for the coming year.