Mugwort

History and Uses:
Mugwort is found in North America, Asia and Europe, including Great Britain. The hardy plant is a close relative of Wormwood, growing to a possible height of six feet with stout stems that are somewhat purple in color. Mugwort is easy to grow and thrives even in poor soil. In North America, Mugwort is considered to be a weed, as it is very hard to eradicate, but in Europe and Asia, Mugwort's reputation is much better, with a long history of medicinal use in both cultures. During the European Middle Ages, Mugwort was known as Cingulum Sancti Johannis and was believed that John the Baptist wore a girdle made of Mugwort when he wandered in the wilderness. Belief grew that Mugwort could prevent misfortune from befalling travelers. Mugwort is also sometimes called St. John's Plant because of the tradition of gathering Mugwort on St. John's Eve to protect against disease and other tragedies. The herb was believed to enhance dreams if placed under one's pillow. In the Asian tradition, Mugwort was used in concoctions to treat rheumatism, and later, in European herbal medicine, Mugwort was used as a nervine to ease the symptoms of epilepsy and palsy. It has also been used as a uterine stimulant and treatment for amenorrhea, especially in conjunction with Cramp Bark. Mugwort has also been used in the treatment of constipation, depression, anxiety and vomiting. Recently, research has focused on the plant's antibacterial and antifungal properties, and in addition to its healing properties, Mugwort is also a good natural source of vitamin C, beta carotene, fiber, calcium, zinc and Quercetin.