Plant Potions with Artimesia Vulgaris, AKA Mugwort
The sun shines down on a smiling Jenn as she lets the long leaves of Mugwort brush against her face.
Common name Mugwort, the plant Artimesia Vulgaris was named for Artemis, the Greek goddess of the hunt, wilderness, wild animals, the moon, and chastity. She loved and protected nature.
In my neighborhood, and on my homestead, Mugwort grows wild now, although not originally. Blessing, my daughter, gave me a plant to start it off. Even without help, Mugwort grows generously in our area, and there are many other ways to interact with this plant. Be sure to check out future articles for more ideas.
Known as a “bitter” in traditional remedies, this beautiful green being can help with GI health. Traditionally it has been known to increase appetite and aid with the digestive process. Mugwort is also known to establish a connection with your dreams or assist you in better remembering your dreams. However, I find that Mugwort can be overdone if too much is consumed. If you start to dream too vividly and lose some sleep, you might need to cut back.
I love making this potion, called an Oxymel, because it’s gentle, non-alcoholic and you can mix it with sparkling water for a drink similar to a “Switchel” or a “Shrub”.
Now, at the height of summer, is the perfect time of year to create your own lovely potion with Mugwort.
A cup of Summertime Mugwort Oxymel mixed with sparkling water stands on a table next to a fresh harvest of Mugwort.
Summertime Mugwort Oxymel
For this potion you will need:
A correctly identified patch of Mugwort. Make sure to gather in a safe and clean area, away from roads, railroad beds or other areas that may be sprayed with pesticides.
Gather Mugwort with a grateful spirit and take only what you need.
Ingredients:
Enough Mugwort to fill a quart jar
A quart jar and lid
Apple cider vinegar
Water
1⁄4 cup raw honey
Instructions:
Wash the leaves in water (do not use soap) and add to jar, discarding stems.
Pour the apple cider vinegar into the jar until it is 2/3 full.
Add the 1⁄4 cup of raw honey.
Fill the rest of the jar to the very top line with pure water.
Steep for a few days and up to 4 weeks for full flavor. Strain herbs and enjoy.
Optional: Before serving, add sparkling water.
Let me know if you try out this recipe in the comments below. If you love the idea of using Mugwort but would like an alternative to making this potion, Mugwort sticks are available in our shop for traditional purposes of cleansing and killing germs in the home.
