Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a shrubby plant native to the temperate areas of Europe, Asia and North Africa. The name derives from the Greek goddess of hunting, Artemis, and today it is currently used for the treatment of coughs, thanks to its antiseptic properties. Let’s find out the characteristics and side effects of mugwort.
Artemisia: characteristics and properties
Mugwort is a perennial shrub plant, with an erect reddish stem and woody root. The leaves are green on the upper side and whitish on the lower side, the flowers are reddish-yellow, gathered in flower heads and the fruits are hairless achenes.
The roots of mugwort have a sedative action and are useful in case of fatigue or overexcitation. The flowers, on the other hand, are rich in essential oils, lactones and flavonoids, and have an antispasmodic and emmenagogue action.
Mugwort is useful in case of cough, against intestinal parasites and in case of difficult digestion.
The side effects of Artemisia
Mugwort can have some side effects, such as:
- nausea and vomit,
- diarrhea and cramps,
- dermatitis and allergic reactions.
Furthermore, it should be noted that, if taken in excessive doses, mugwort can damage the nervous system; it is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation and in patients suffering from gastritis.
