Mugwort
- Artemisia
vulgaris
Known
as the 'mother of herbs' Mugwort also has strong
connections to the goddess Artemis [who in turn
was seen by many as a protector of young mothers]
and also has a long tradition in the West as a labour
inducer.
Mugwort
can also been seen as a mother to your body - taken
in low doses over the long-term, mugwort stimulates
and increases appetite, and the absorbtion of nutrients.
Try a daily cup of mugwort tea, the taste is rather
similar to Sage [so quite an acquired one!]. Mugwort
is also a digestive and tonic herb with excellent
antiseptic properties, and is effective at elliminating
worms.
Mugwort
is the principle ingredient in moxa sticks used
in moxicombustion - a wonderful healing experience
where the smouldering moxa [which resembles dhoop]
is held over specific points of the body to remedy
all manner of ills.
The
Romans used to place mugwort leaves in their sandals
to keep their feet in good shape.
Magically
speaking mugwort is connected with scrying and psychic
matters - many recommend a cup of mugwort tea before
a scrying session, or that you wash your crystal
ball or scrying mirror in a mugwort infusion. There
is also much reference to crystal balls being placed
on a bed of mugwort to enhance the experience. Mugwort
also has a history of use in dreaming / journeying
work - from adding it to dream-pillows or smudging
around the sleeping area for protection during dreamwork
to drinking or bathing in an infusion before journey
work.
!
Avoid during Pregnancy - labour inducing ! |