Mugwort
Mugwort

Background

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a plant native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. The parts that grow above the ground and the root are used to make medicine.

Chemicals in mugwort might have anti-inflammatory effects. It also contains a chemical called thujone, which might stimulate the uterus.

People use mugwort for anxiety, irregular periods, colic, insomnia, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse mugwort with plants with similar common names, including Artemisia herba-alba, tarragon, wormseed, and wormwood. These are not the same.
When taken by mouth: There isn't enough reliable information to know if mugwort is safe. It might cause allergic reactions in some people.

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if mugwort is safe or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy: Mugwort is likely unsafe when taken by mouth during pregnancy. Mugwort might cause the utereus to contract or stimulate a period, which can lead to a miscarriage.

Breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if mugwort is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Allergies: Mugwort might cause an allergic reaction in people with a variety of allergies, including those to the Asteraceae/Compositae plant family, birch, celery, fennel, wild carrot, honey, hazelnuts, pine nuts, tobacco, and many others.

Effectiveness

There is interest in using mugwort for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Likely effective Effectiveness definitions
Possibly effective Effectiveness definitions
Likely ineffective Effectiveness definitions
Possibly ineffective Effectiveness definitions
Insufficient evidence Effectiveness definitions

Dosing & administration

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of mugwort might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

Interactions with pharmaceuticals

It is not known if Mugwort interacts with any medicines. Before taking Mugwort, talk with your healthcare professional if you take any medications.

Interactions with herbs & supplements

There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Interactions with foods

There are no known interactions with foods.
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This monograph was last reviewed on 19/02/2024 11:00:00 and last updated on 20/09/2022 06:42:35. Monographs are reviewed and/or updated multiple times per month and at least once per year.
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