Common mugwort and mullein work well together as a base oil. Once infused other oils can be added to reduce symptoms from Bell’s Palsy, vertigo, Meniere’s, rheumatism, TMJ, or shingles. All these conditions relate to “kidney”, ears, or inflammation of the nerves in the face.
Maybe you are familiar with common mugwort as an ingredient in dream pillows, incense, or a smoking blend. It has a long history in many countries as both food and a healing plant. It is one of those plants that can be used in so many different and creative ways. Some claim it must have been in ancient recipe for the mythical flying ointment of witches or a psychic protection. Having made and used the oil I can assure you any properties are more medicinal than magical.
Artemisia is a perennial that grows 1-5 feet tall. A mature plant will produce numerous downy, leggy, square, and grooved stems. These will be covered in a lush growth of alternate, pinnate, leaves. Each leaf will have 5-7 lobes that are a medium green on the front side and paler on the back. The leaflets are toothed , linear and spatulate. The very small flowers are white (often with a pale green, yellow, or pink shading) that appear on numerous panicled spikes. Some varieties might have a strong smell. Mugwort dies back in the fall to appear as a basal rosette of leaves in the spring. This plant prefers full sun, well drained soil, and infrequent watering. You will find it growing in gardens, wastelands, in fields and along the road but it is native to Asia.
Mugwort is known for treating issues related to menstruation, menopause and in childbirth. Healers have recommended it to stop bleeding, remove toxins, and reduce inflammation. Artemisia has been found to be anti-microbial both internally and externally. It stimulates the appetite and digestion. This herb can be used for respiratory illnesses, kidney/bladder and gall stones, sore throat, liver conditions, fever, flu, diarrhea, stomachache, bell’s palsy, pain, disturbed sleep and nervous complaints. The Japanese use it in dumplings and other food items. In Europe it was used to make beer. As moxa in Chinese medicine it is used to move cold, damp, and stagnation. I use it a lot in incense. As a liniment or oil it can be used externally for sore muscles, tired limbs, rheumatism, arthritis, injuries and gout. A poultice it is helpful for warts, poison ivy, rashes, bug bites, bruises and sores. As a steam for asthma and chest congestion. As an enema to remove parasites. If you have stuffy nasal passages, a nosebleed or headache you can use it as snuff. It can be used in many forms as an insect repellant.
Parts used: roots, leaves and aerial parts
Energetics :warm, dry, bitter, pungent
Element: both earth and water
Contraindications: Do not consume in large doses for an extended time period. Avoid during pregnancy. Some individuals may be develop an allergic reaction when touching it.
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