Mugwort, considered the 'universal herb for protection and prophecy', she is best utilized for pain and healing, psychic powers and lucid dreaming. In China, Japan and ancient Europe, Mugwort is hung in open doorways to exorcise evil and the spirits of disease. The 'traveller’s herb for protection', Mugwort leaves were placed inside the shoes of Roman soldiers for endurance and to soothe their sore feet. An ally for digestive disorders and menstrual malaise, she is also used as a sacred smudge herb, smoke mixture, and prophetic dream potentiator.
Mugwort is often confused with wormwood or Artemisia absinthium. By examining the leaves one can see that Mugwort leaves are smooth and of a dark green tint on the upper surface, but covered with a dense cottony down beneath (reflecting the light of the moon). Other names for Mugwort are Cronewort, St. John's Plant, Moxa, Sailor's Tobacco, and Artemis Herb.
Mugwort has been used as a bitter to flavor beverages, most notably beer, before the introduction of hops... thus the name *mug.* A tea of her fresh leaves eases chronic stomach complaints and stimulates the appetite. Her leaves and stems are used in moxibustion, applied during acupuncture treatment for a wide variety of health issues. Known for its topical anesthetic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, Mugwort used as an acetum (vinegar) tincture liniment for sprains, bruises, and hyperextension. Her antibacterial action inhibits the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, B. dysenteriae, streptococci, and E. coli.
Mugwort is associated with the moon, which aligns her with the dreaming state and makes her a great ally during the cycles of womanhood. A satchel of her leaves and flowers placed beneath your pillow at night, she aids as a visionary herb that increases psychic powers and illuminates your dreams. Mugwort helps to regulate menstrual cycles and the discomfort of menopausal onset. Taken as a tea, can shake loose a cold, slow, crampy period. During labor she is used as a compress to promote uterine contractions and expel the afterbirth. Because of her stimulation of the uterine lining, Mugwort is contraindicated during pregnancy.
See you in the dreamtime!
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