Artemisia is a plant belonging to the Asteraceae (complex) family. It is favored by a temperate climate. It occurs in dry areas of the Old Continent, Asia and North America. Although there are 300 species of mugwort, the most typical species is Artemisia vulgaris. Species such as mugwort and annual mugwort are also popular, and we will consider them in this article.
Mugwort
Mugwort is a plant that blooms from July to October. It often grows along roads, in ditches, by rivers and in areas overgrown with weeds. It prefers loamy, slightly alkaline and nitrogen-rich soils. Mugwort has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports the digestive system, helps with stomach aches and is good for the liver, which is why it is used in the kitchen.
The leaves and tops of young shoots are used to make the seasoning. They are usually harvested before flowering, around August. The spice has a strong, spicy smell and is bitter. It is suitable for meat, cabbage and mushroom dishes, it is also added in small proportions to salads or soups, for example onion or vegetable soups. It cannot be used in large amounts because it is then toxic. In ancient times, it was believed in the magical powers of the plant, including that it wards off evil and protects against witchcraft.
Artemisia vulgaris is also used as a medicine. Among other things, it helps with colds, reduces fever, and heals acne and epilepsy. The mugwort rinse strengthens the hair roots and prevents greasy hair. It also acts as a sedative and hypnotic agent as it has narcotic properties. Increases appetite, has a laxative and diuretic effect.
Mugwort can be used as a dietary supplement in the form of capsules. It is also recommended to brew the fresh leaves in boiling water for about 10 minutes and then drink the tea with the decoction.
Artemisia wormwood
Artemisia absinthium is a species of mugwort commonly used in the alcohol industry – it is the main component of absinthe. It is characterized by a bitter taste and an unpleasant smell. When given in large amounts, it is a strong poison, but it also has various healing properties.
Mugwort is used for various ailments of the digestive system. It helps with indigestion, problems with the urinary system, heartburn and flatulence. It stimulates the appetite and speeds up the metabolism.
It is also recommended to regulate menstrual cycles. Regular drinking of wormwood infusion fights human roundworms and pinworms. How to prepare it? Pour one teaspoon of the herb into a glass or mug and pour boiling water over it. We wait about half an hour, then strain. We can add a little sugar to the prepared infusion to reduce the bitter taste.
Annual mugwort
Artemisia annua, like the previous species described, is also used to treat ailments. Annual mugwort helps with fever and mycosis. It is used to wash the skin – it cleans, nourishes and speeds up the healing process. It helps to eliminate parasites in farm animals and is also used in the case of co-infections with Lyme disease. It is also worth mentioning that the annual mugwort has antimalarial properties.
How to apply it? One teaspoon of leaves should be poured with a glass of water. Remember, however, that it cannot be boiling. We leave it for an hour and then strain it.