Mugwort is an ancient plant It has been used since ancient times for different purposes. It is known by the names of San Juan grass, Chinese absinthe, chrysanthemum herb OR criminal weedamong others.
The scientific name of mugwort is Artemisia wormwood. This plant is native to Asia, Europe and North Africa. It can be recognized because it has small yellow flowers and grows up to 2 meters.
The earliest references to Artemis are found in Greek culture and the Egyptians.. It has since been used for therapeutic purposes and continues to be used in folk medicine today. Scientists have also studied and approved many of its properties.
History and description of mugwort
Against the name of this plant there are two theories. It is said that it was placed in honor of the goddess Artemis, protector of hunting and healing virtues. Another hypothesis indicates that it was named in honor of Artemisia, wife of the ruler of Caria (now Turkey), an expert in botany and medicine.
It is known that the Romans made sagebrush plantations on both sides of several roads. This was so that marching soldiers could pick it up and put it in their shoes. The plant soothed his tired feet.
The plant has long been used to treat digestive problems. It has also been used as an insect repellent and even as a component of beer.
The stems of the plant are reddish brown. The leaves have a sage-like aroma and a bitter taste. The flowers are yellow, but turn dark orange in summer. It’s easy to get it almost anywhere in the world.
Property
Artemisia has medicinal virtues in its flowers, stems and leaves. It has antibacterial, antiparasitic, analgesic, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, emollient, calming, tonic, stimulating and aperitif properties.
This plant contains several therapeutic chemicals, such as camphor, pinene and cineole. These compounds have positive effects on health. In fact, mugwort also contains a substance called artemisininwith presumed anticancer activity.
Mugwort has long been used to aid menstrual flow.. Similarly, its ability to stimulate the contraction of the uterus during childbirth, thus facilitating labor, is hypothesized. However, there is some controversy on this last point.
Uses and benefits of mugwort
Mugwort is used in the form of infusions, tinctures, essential oils and syrups. Similarly, traditional Chinese medicine prescribes it as part of acupuncture. The benefits it offers are still being studied by science. There are no 100% conclusive data.
Relief from gastric problems
Artemisia has purifying and antioxidant properties. Therefore, it would help eliminate toxins affecting the stomach.
Helps solve common problems such as constant burping, flatulence, heaviness and reflux. With this plant these episodes can be reduced.
Elimination of parasites
This plant is famous for its deworming, antibacterial and anthelmintic properties.. All this makes it very convenient to fight intestinal parasites. In fact, this may be the biggest benefit of mugwort.
slimming
Consumption of this plant does not directly cause weight loss. However, since it helps reduce water retention, it could be an adjuvant.
Regulation and relief in menstrual periods
This is another of the better known benefits of mugwort. As it would facilitate blood circulation, the effect would be to increase menstrual flow and make the cycles are more regular. Furthermore, would have analgesic effects on menstrual cramps. However, the possibility of inducing violent contractions in the uterus questions its clinical utility.
Chagas disease
Artemisia can help in the treatment of Chagas diseasebut there is still not enough evidence about it.
Anticancer?
A scientific study pointed to that mugwort it can have a positive effect in the treatment of prostate, kidney, pancreatic cancers and sarcomas. Everything indicates that it would attack malignant cells without harming healthy ones. But many more studies are needed to confirm these data. It is by no means a first line approach for cancer.
For joint pain
Mugwort essential oil has a beneficial effect on joint pain. That’s because it has analgesic components and anti-inflammatories. Therefore, it may be suitable for contributing to the well-being of people with arthritis.
Precautions in the use of mugwort
Artemisia is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.. During pregnancy it could precipitate a miscarriage or premature birth. If you are breastfeeding it is not known if it has any negative effects on the health of the baby.
People allergic to ragweed may have an allergic reaction to mugwort. Even those allergic to lettuce, chicory, daisy, sunflower, artichoke and calendula should use it with caution. Those who are allergic to celery, carrot or birch may also cross-react when consuming mugwort.
Mugwort should not be eaten for longer than four weeks. Nor should the recommended dose be exceeded, which is a maximum of 6 grams per day.
Artemis: a medicinal plant with much more to discover
Artemisia is a mild psychoactive which, however, can cause some disturbances in perception. In some places its cultivation is even illegal. In no case should it be smoked or mixed with tobacco.
There is no exact dose that can be prescribed for all people. This will depend on the problem to be solved and the state of health of each patient. Therefore, it is indicated to consult your doctor so that he determines the dose, frequency and method of use.
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