Artemisia vulgaris Mugwort Related species:
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Mugwort was one of the nine Saxon
magic herbs. It was used to make tea for gastritis and digestive ailments,
and to treat menstrual disorders. Leaves were used to make fumigant candle
wicks, and the flowers were used to flavour beers before the advent of
hops.
Mugwort is used as an insect repellent. It is also an ingredient in herbal tobaccos and Chinese treatments for rheumatism. It can be harmful if taken internally in excessive doses. Mugwort can be grown from seeds sown in situ in spring. It prefers sun and some light shade, and requires plenty of room as the plants grow quickly to full height. Care should be taken that the plant does not become invasive in the garden. Mugwort can be propagated from cuttings taken in autumn, or by dividing the roots in spring or autumn. |