Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a plant species endemic to Northern Europe, Asia and Alaska and naturalized in North America and has long been used for treating gastric and skin disorders, as a nerve tonic, and as a popular cooking additive.
Mugwort oil is extracted by steam distillation of leaves, buds, and flowering tops of the Mugwort tree and has an herbaceous, camphorous, sage-like scent.
Mugwort oil contains thujone, which is toxic in large amounts or under prolonged intake.
Mugwort oil also contains anti-epileptic, anti-hysteric, cordial, digestive, diuretic, emenagogue, nervine, stimulant, uterine, and vermifuge therapeutic properties.
Mugwort oil regulates or stimulates the flow of digestive juices to facilitate digestion, along with inhibiting microbial infections in the stomach and the intestines to cure digestive disorders.
Mugwort oil has been shown to be effective against skin parasites like ringworm, and to help injuries like bruises and chilblains (skin that becomes red and swollen due to cold exposure) to heal faster.
Many women use mugwort oil for irregular periods and other menstrual problems like cramps, bloating and fatigue because of its emenagogue property. This oil can also help avoid early or untimely menopause.
Mugwort oil is good all-purpose cleaner and insect repellent oil that you definitely want around the house.
As a diuretic, mugwort oil increases urination, in both frequency and quantity, it is used to detox the body and help conditions such as overweight, high blood pressure, arthritis and gout.
Mugwort oil also stimulates blood circulation, hormones, digestion and the mind.
Mugwort oil has been used to prevent or stop epileptic attacks so it is an excellent choice for people with epilepsy.
Mugwort oil helps in the maintainance of a healthy uterus. It maintains proper uterine discharges and stimulates the production of certain hormones that keep the uterus functioning properly and safe from the effects of aging.
Even though enriched with numerous health benefits, mugwort oil is known to be poisonous, causes irritations, has toxic and narcotic effects on the brain and the nervous system, and can cause abortions and as such should never be used during pregnancy.
