Mugwort supplements are derived from several flowering species of the genus Artemisia that have been found to yield health benefits. Of these species, Artemisia vulgaris is most commonly referred to by the term mugwort in scientific studies unless specified otherwise. Regardless of the species involved in supplement production, mugwort supplements are derived from the parts of the plant that grow above the ground.
Mugwort supplements are believed to derive their health properties from their content, which varies depending on the species involved in the manufacturing process. Some common compounds in the different mugwort types are sesquiterpene lactones such as yomogin and phenolic compounds. Yomogin has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting inducible nitric oxide synthase. Meanwhile, phenolic compounds are potent antioxidants that can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, resulting in diseases related to the heart and cancer.
The top five mugwort supplements are Wise Woman Herbals, Enzymedica, Gaia Herbs, Essential Formulas, and Derma-E. Supplements are typically used to treat gastrointestinal issues such as colic and diarrhea. They are also used to suppress pain, promote blood circulation, alleviate stress, and boost energy levels in aromatherapy.
The prices of mugwort products vary. On the Premier Formulas website, they range from $15.99 to $29.99, depending on the type. The $15.99 supplements are sold by Gaia Herbs, with each containing mugwort combined with other herbs for use as female hormone support. On the other hand, the $29.99 supplements are sold by Enzymedica, each consisting of mugwort combined with other herbs to improve digestion and energy levels and nourish the microbiome.
Below are the best mugwort supplements and their uses:
1. Wise Woman Herbals – Artemisia Absinthium Wormwood 2 oz
Wise Woman Herbals takes pride in its herbal product line derived from the highest-quality plants on farms in the Pacific Northwest and using time-tested processing techniques that honor early European herbalists. The supplement manufacturer notes that it uses only natural ingredients that are biodynamic and cultivated ethically to produce its supplements in its Food and Drug Administration-accredited facility in Creswell, Oregon. Only organic, kosher, and non-GMO cane alcohol, cold-pressed olive oil, mountain spring water, and organic and kosher vegetable glycerin are used in the maceration process to extract the plant’s properties, which are controlled at every stage to ensure the highest quality. According to Wise Woman Herbals, all of its 325 whole-herb supplements are free of GMOs, peanuts, wheat, gluten, corn, dairy, and soy. It also attests to the potency of its products, noting that it does not use standardized extracts at the expense of one compound that could have provided more health benefits had it been included in full in the final product.
Wise Woman Herbals Artemisia Absinthium Wormwood liquid extract is a proprietary blend of the budding aerial parts of mugwort, particularly the Artemisia absinthium species, in a base of organic alcohol and spring water. Consumers use the product to reduce hyper-inflammation that can result from Lyme disease.
Nutritional value: One serving contains 1 ml of the proprietary blend.
Price range: From $28 to $28.90
Producer: Wise Woman Herbals
Its form: Liquid extract
Is it vegan? No, but it is gluten-free and GMO-free.
Is it for gastrointestinal support? Yes.
What are its ingredients? Apart from mugwort, Wise Woman Herbals Artemisia Absinthium Wormwood contains spring water and organic alcohol.
What is the service size for it? 20 drops.
When to use it? Daily.
How to use it? Wise Woman Herbals recommends shaking the bottle well before adding 1 to 20 drops of its product to a glass of water. The beverage may be consumed one to four times a day. The supplement manufacturer notes that the presence of particulate matter in the product is normal. The product is not recommended for use by pregnant women and should be kept out of reach of children.
2. Essential Formulas – Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotic Plus/Prof 60 Vcaps (Best for Gastrointestinal Support)
Essential Formulas is a family-owned business that offers supplements based on formulas tested by scientific research. Dr. Ohhira, named after the award-winning microbiologist Dr. Iichiro Ohhira, is Essential Formulas’ whole-health skincare and dietary supplement line.
According to Essential Formulas, Dr. Ohhira’s skincare products are made from all-natural ingredients that enhance the skins’ ecosystem of friendly probiotic bacteria to ensure good skin health. The plant extracts used in the products also exhibit potent antioxidant activity. The final supplements do not contain stabilizers, synthetic fragrances, preservatives, chemicals, or artificial colors. Essential Formulas says Dr. Ohhira’s products set them apart in the industry because the probiotics used to manufacture them are not cultivated in the laboratory. Instead, they are produced by allowing mountain spring water, vegetables, and fruits to ferment for three years. The probiotics are then encapsulated with a prebiotic to ensure their survival. The capsules contain Proprietary TH10, a live bacteria strain that was never freeze-dried. Essential Formulas says this strain is six times stronger than other known bacterial strains.
Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotic Plus formula contains a proprietary blend of prebiotics from herbs such as mugwort, maitake, and Goji berries, probiotics in the form of 12 strains of live lactic acid bacteria, and post-biotics that were developed during the natural fermentation process, which lasted for five, instead of the usual three years. According to Essential Formulas, its product improves PH levels in the digestive tract and stomach, promoting good immune support. It notes that some of the post-biotics used in the supplement, such as fulvic acid, help enhance the body’s capacity to absorb essential minerals and micronutrients.
Link to purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/essential-formulas/dr-ohhiras-probiotic-plus-prof-60-vcaps
Nutritional value: One serving contains 420 mg of proprietary fermented food concentrate, including prebiotics from Japanese mugwort (Artemisia princeps), prunes (prunus domestica), Goji berries (Lyceum chinense), figs (Ficus carica), blueberries (Vaccinium spp.), red bayberries (Myrica rubra), Yuzu fruit (Citrus junos), komatsuna (Brassica rapa var. perviridis), shiitake (Lentinula edodes), Agaricus (A. blazei), maitake (Grifola frondosa), hijiki (Hizikia fusiforme), wakame (Undaria pinnatifida), and Kombu kelp (Laminaria japonica); probiotics in the form of Bifidobacteria, Enterococcus faecalis TH10, Lactobacilli, and Streptococcus thermophilus; and post-biotics in the form of short chain fatty acids and other organic acids (acetic, citric, fulvic, humic and phenylacetic acids), oligosaccharides, polyphenols, melanoidin, and trace amounts of chelated minerals, vitamins, and amino acids.
Price range: $69.95
Producer: Essential Formulas
Its form: Vegetarian capsules
Is it vegan? No, but it is gluten-free, dairy-free, fish-free, and non-GMO.
Is it for gastrointestinal support? Yes.
What are its ingredients? Essential Formulas Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotic Plus/Prof also contains safflower oil, vegetarian softgel capsule (roasted non-GMO starch, glycerin, food-grade carrageenan from red seaweed, and class 1 natural caramel color), glycerin ester, lecithin, beeswax, vitamin E, mountain spring water, and calcium carbonate. It does not contain egg, fish, milk, wheat (gluten), tree nuts, peanut, or soy allergens.
What is the service size for it? One vegetarian capsule.
When to use it? Daily.
How to use it? Essential Formulas recommends taking one capsule twice daily or as directed by a healthcare professional. Refrigerating the product is not required. If pregnant, nursing, or to be used for children under 12 years of age, consultation with a health care professional is advised. The product should be kept out of reach of children.
3. Gaia Herbs – Valerian/Poppy Supreme 1 Oz (Best for Promoting Sleep and Relaxation)
Gaia Herbs sources ingredients for its supplements as much as possible from its organic farm in Brevard, North Carolina. The company brings the herbs to its production facility for extraction to create its products. Gaia Herbs assures users of the final product’s potency using its patented Liquid Phytocaps Technology for manufacturing. According to Gaia Herbs, Liquid Phytocaps Technology allows for the “absorption of concentrated plant extracts.”
Gaia Herbs Valerian/Poppy Supreme is a proprietary blend of herbs that include mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), Valerian root, chamomile, skullcap, California poppy, and kava. According to the supplement manufacturer, the product has a 400 mg/ml herb equivalency and can be used to promote relaxation and sleep. Mugwort has traditionally been used to support a natural transition to the sleeping state.
Link to purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/gaia-herbs/valerian-poppy-supreme-1-oz
Nutritional value: One serving of Gaia Herbs Valerian/Poppy Supreme contains 2 ml of a proprietary extract blend composed of the aerial parts of mugwort, kava root (Pyper methisticum), chamomile flower (Matricaria recutita), skullcap aerial parts extract (Scutelaria lateriflora), the whole plant of California poppy (Echscholzia californica, passionflower flowering vine (Passiflora incarnata), and Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis).
Price range: $13.99
Producer: Gaia Herbs
Its form: Liquid extract (tincture)
Is it vegan? Yes.
Is it for gastrointestinal support? Yes.
What are its ingredients? Apart from the proprietary extract blend, one serving size of Gaia Herbs Valerian/Poppy Supreme contains alcohol USP (52-62%) and water.
What is the service size for it? 60 drops or 2 ml.
When to use it? Before bedtime.
How to use it? Gaia Herbs recommends taking 40 to 60 drops of its product in a small amount of water one hour before bedtime. The recommended maximum time of use is one month.
Those who have ever had liver problems, drink alcohol, or take any other supplements should not use the product. Those under 18, pregnant, or breastfeeding are also advised against using this supplement. If with a medical condition, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised. If symptoms such as jaundice and brown urine develop, consumption of the supplement should be stopped, and a healthcare professional should be consulted. Other non-specific symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, light-colored stools, tiredness, weakness, abdominal or stomach pain, and loss of appetite. The product should not be consumed with alcohol.
4. Enzymedica – Prebiotics Superfoods Drink Mix 30 Servings (Best for Ensuring Digestive System Health)
Since it was founded over 20 years ago, Enzymedica has been producing digestive enzymes and health supplements proven to improve overall health. According to the supplement manufacturer, its products are made from natural ingredients sourced from all over the world. The raw ingredients are tested for purity before the final products are made. Enzymedica ensures that the enzymes included in its supplements have not had any contact with preservatives or pesticides. Its products are also free from additives.
Because of its high-quality products, Enzymedica has reaped numerous awards over the years, given by independent bodies such as the Nutrition Business Journal and WholeFoods Magazine, leading publications in the health and nutrition industry. Enzymedica’s GlutenEase, Purify 10 Day Body Complete Cleanse, Lypo Gold, Enzyme Defense, and Digest Spectrum have each won the Best of Supplements Award, a premier award in the natural health food industry. Enzymedica’s Digest Gold product, which is used to help the body digest fats, carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, ensuring optimal nutrient use, won the award at least three times. The supplement manufacturer continues to use cutting-edge technology and scientific research to develop products of the highest quality that consumers can trust.
Enzymedica’s Prebiotics Superfoods Drink Mix contains an Ohtaka superfood blend composed of over 50 prebiotic foods, including mugwort, carrot, brown rice, grape, apple, tomato, and sweet pepper, among others, mixed with other ingredients such as tapioca fiber, organic gum acacia, and organic fermented barley grass. According to the supplement manufacturer, the Ohtaka superfood blend serves as microbiome support. Organic fermented barley grass, for instance, helps provide good digestive health with its detoxifying properties. The fiber from acacia gum, on the other hand, ensures that the digestive system is working efficiently. Enzymedica notes that its product also has a green apple flavor.
Link to purchase:https://www.premierformulas.com/enzymedica/prebiotics-drink-mix-30-servings
Nutritional value: One serving of Enzymedica’s Prebiotics Superfoods Drink Mix contains calories, 6 g of total carbohydrates, 5 g of dietary fiber, 4 g of soluble fiber, and less than 1 g of total sugars. It also contains 5 mg of sodium, 2 g of sunfiber guar fiber, 978 mg of tapioca fiber, 489 mg of galacto-oligosaccharides, 978 mg of organic gum acacia, 489 mg of isomalto-oligosaccharides, 489 mg of organic fermented barley grass, and 1.5 g of Ohtaka superfoods blend composed of mugwort, carrot, brown rice, grape, apple, daikon radish, cabbage, celery, cucumber, banana, onion, burdock, spinach pear, orange peel, tomato, sweet pepper, eggplant, lotus rhizome, pumpkin, shiitake mushroom, ginger, lettuce, garlic, trefoil, udo, asparagus, bamboo grass, clover, kombu, coltsfoot, dandelion, plantain, pea sprout, Japanese cedar, parsley, turnip, pineapple, strawberry, knotweed, chive, Chinese cabbage, enokitake mushroom, garland chrysanthemum, Oriental celery, leek, todor fir, green perilla, and wakarne.
Price range: $29.99
Producer: Enzymedica
Its form: Powder
Is it vegan? Yes.
Is it for gastrointestinal support? Yes.
What are its ingredients? Apart from the Ohtaka superfood blend and other ingredients, one serving of Enzymedica’s Prebiotics Superfoods Drink Mix contains natural green apple flavor, malic acid, Reb A (Stevia extract), and citric acid. The supplement does not contain gluten, milk, casein, egg, soy, or artificial colors or flavors. Enzymedica does not use ingredients derived from biotechnology.
What is the service size for it? One tablespoon or 7 g
When to use it? Daily.
How to use it? Enzymedica recommends mixing one tablespoon of its drink mix with 8 oz of cold water and drinking the beverage daily. If pregnant or nursing, consult with a healthcare professional is advised. The product should be kept closed in a dry place, and exposure to excessive heat should be avoided.
5. Derma-E – Natural Bodycare Gentle Enzyme Peel 1.7 Oz
Starting as a small health food store in Southern California, Derma-E has grown to become one of the most prominent facial care brands in the United States. The company manufactures products containing ingredients that are safe for use, never incorporating raw materials included in its Refuse to Use list. The comprehensive list includes over 2,700 ingredients that have been proven toxic to people, such as parabens, phthalates, animal ingredients, formaldehyde, and synthetic fragrances. The products also do not contain sodium lauryl sulfate, petrolatum, mineral oil, or artificial colors.
According to Derma-E, it uses only clean formulas that have been scientifically proven and are cruelty-free. Derma-E assures that all their product ingredients are properly stated on the labels. The company also has a comprehensive list of the ingredients in its products and their respective benefits on its website.
Derma-E’s Natural Bodycare Gentle Enzyme Peel is a combination of mugwort with other herbs such as jojoba, licorice, and milk thistle and enzymes guaranteed to exfoliate the skin gently to remove impurities. The company notes that mugwort protects the skin barrier while exotic papaya and pineapple fruit enzymes exhibit potent antioxidant activity and help ensure smooth skin. Milk thistle and licorice root are believed to yield anti-aging effects, and according to Derma-E, jojoba oil is a moisturizer.
Nutritional value: The product contains mugwort extract (Artemisia vulgaris), papaya fruit enzyme (papain), pineapple fruit enzyme (bromelain), the seed of milk thistle (Silybum marianum), the root extract of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and the seed oil of jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis).
Price range: $18.95
Producer: Derma-E
Its form: Liquid extract
Is it vegan? Yes.
Is it for gastrointestinal support? No. The product is for skincare and external use only.
What are its ingredients? 1.7 oz or 48 g of Derma-E’s Natural Bodycare Gentle Enzyme Peel contains purified water, propanediol, glycerin, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, cetrimonium chloride, carbomer, polysorbate 20, sodium hyaluronate, astaxanthin, tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E), potassium sorbate, menthol, Eucalyptus globulus leaf oil, Mentha piperita (peppermint) oil, Mentha viridis (spearmint) leaf oil, and phenoxyethanol.
What is the service size for it? Derma-E does not specify a service size.
When to use it? Derma-E does not specify an ideal time of use.
How to use it? Derma-E recommends applying a thin layer of its product on the face, neck, and decollete, after cleansing. The product should not be applied to broken or irritated skin, and the eye area should be avoided. After application, the skin should be massaged gently in a circular motion and then rinsed off with warm water. The Gentle Enzyme Peel is for external use only. The product should also be kept out of reach of children and stored in a cool, dry place.
6. Wise Woman Herbals- Cellular Support 2oz
Wise Woman Herbals Cellular Support is a blend of mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) and the herbs astragalus, eleuthero, licorice, reishi, schisandra, codonopsis, and maitake. According to the supplement manufacturer, the product ensures cellular production and vitality by providing a healthy cellular structure and function. The supplement, Wise Woman Herbals states, is also used to help promote focus, healthy stomach function, regular sleep patterns and circadian rhythms, and decrease restlessness.
According to the supplement manufacturer, each ingredient can yield other health benefits. For instance, mugwort can support energy levels, mood balance, and sleep. Astragalus is known to help the immune system, promote blood circulation, and allow for a healthy histamine response. On the other hand, maitake can support healthy sugar levels and is used to ease the effects of chemotherapy. Codonopsis can help ensure nervous system health and improve the circulation of white and red blood cells. Reishi helps reduce fatigue and promotes a healthy respiratory response, while schisandra is typically used for endurance support and coordination. According to Wise Woman Herbals, licorice and eleuthero promote skin and teeth health and help strengthen memory.
Link to purchase: https://www.premierformulas.com/wise-woman-herbals/cellular-support-2oz
Nutritional value: The product contains a proprietary blend (3 ml) consisting of the leaf of Artemisia vulgaris (mugwort), the root of astragalus membranaceous (astragalus), the fruiting body/antlers of ganoderma lucidum (reishi), the root of Codonopsis pilosula (codonopsis), the fruiting body of Grifola frondosa (maitake), the root of Eleutherococcus senticoccus (eleuthero), the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice), and the berry of Schisandra chinensis (schisandra, wu wei zi).
Price range: $29.40
Producer: Wise Woman Herbals
Its form: Liquid extract
Is it vegan? No, but it is gluten-free and GMO-free.
Is it for gastrointestinal support? Yes.
What are its ingredients: Apart from the proprietary blend, Wise Woman Herbals Cellular Support contains spring water and organic alcohol.
What is the service size for it? 60 drops.
When to use it? Daily.
How to use it? Wise Woman Herbals recommends shaking the bottle well before adding 10 to 60 drops of the liquid extract to water one to three times a day and drinking it. The presence of particulate matter in the product is normal. Pregnant women or those with a history of hypertension should not consume the product. Caution should be exercised by those with hypoglycemia and bleeding disorders or those on blood-thinning medications. The product should also be kept out of reach of children and stored in a cool, dry area, away from sunlight and with the lid tightly sealed.
How To Use A Mugwort Supplement?
The process of utilizing mugwort supplements varies depending on the form consumed. Regardless of the supplement type, the process is straightforward.
To orally consume mugwort in liquid extract form, the supplement can be used in one of two ways:
To orally consume mugwort supplements in liquid extract form by mixing it with other substances before ingestion, the following steps should be followed:
- Shake the supplement bottle well.
- Add the recommended dose to water or other beverages. Some supplement manufacturers recommend adding the desired amount to 3 oz of water, juice, or tea.
- Drink. Some supplement manufacturers like Herb Pharms state that the liquid extract is best taken between meals. Others like Naturalma note that the supplement can be taken any time of the day.
To orally consume mugwort supplements in liquid extract form without mixing it with other substances, the following steps should be followed:
- Shake the supplement bottle well.
- Add the recommended dose directly to the mouth, under the tongue. Some supplement manufacturers like Stay Healthy recommend starting with a low dosage of 2 to 10 drops, two to four times daily.
- Swallow.
To topically use mugwort in liquid extract form, the supplement can be used in three ways.
To topically use mugwort supplements in liquid extract form as an exfoliating agent, the following steps should be followed:
- Obtain the desired product dose.
- Apply a layer to the skin. Some manufacturers, such as Derma-E, advise against applying their product to broken or irritated skin. Some manufacturers, such as Korea’s Mugwort Essence, recommend leaving the product on for five to ten minutes. The eyes should be avoided.
- Massage the area where the supplement was applied if specified.
- Rinse with warm water.
To topically use mugwort supplements in liquid extract form as an essential oil, the following steps should be followed:
- Obtain the recommended dose of the product.
- Add the dose to warm water if the supplement is used for soaking feet or as a warm compress. Immerse feet in the water or wet a towel and use it on the desired body parts.
- If it is to be used as a massage oil, apply the supplement directly on the skin and massage.
To topically use mugwort supplements in liquid extract form as a hydrosol spray, follow these steps:
- Shake the supplement bottle well.
- Spray the recommended dose onto the skin. Avoid eye contact and inhalation.
To consume mugwort in raw powder form, the supplement can be used in two ways:
To consume mugwort supplements in raw powder form, the following steps should be followed:
- Add the recommended dose to water, other beverages, or food. Terra Vita recommends adding ¼ of a teaspoon of raw powder to a liquid or food per intake.
- Drink the beverage or eat the food.
To consume mugwort supplements in raw powder form in tea bags, the following steps should be followed:
- Soak one tea bag in hot water.
- Steep for a few minutes. Buddha Teas recommends steeping the tea bag for three to six minutes.
- Remove tea bag and drink.
To orally consume mugwort supplements in pill form, the following steps should be followed:
- Obtain the proper dosage. Essential Formulas recommends a dosage of two capsules daily.
- Drink the tablet or capsule with water.
How Much Mugwort Supplement Is Too Much Per Day?
The correct mugwort supplement dosage depends on the type of benefit one wishes to gain from the herb. For instance, to benefit from mugwort’s insecticidal properties, based on research, 40.23 µg/mL of Artemisia argyi and 50 μL at a 100% concentration of Artemisia vulgaris is enough. Researchers Rei Ogawa et al. found that mugwort lotion at a dose of 6.25 g of mugwort extract two times a day for at least one week is enough to relieve itching.
Because of the limited to no clinical studies on the other health uses of mugwort for gastrointestinal and liver support, for calming nerves, and as an energy booster, it is difficult to give a recommended dosage for one to benefit from these properties. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advised prior to consumption of mugwort.
What Are The Possible Risks (Side Effects) Of Mugwort Supplements?
Mugwort is not likely to cause adverse effects if used in therapeutic doses. However, if used in excess, the following side effects may occur:
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- Allergies: When inhaled, the glycoproteins in mugwort pollen can result in a type 1 allergic reaction. A cross-sectional study found that of the 6,304 patients suffering from asthma or rhinitis in 17 cities in China who underwent a skin prick test, 11.3% tested positive for mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris). Over 70% of the 215,210 tests conducted for three years by China’s allergy department were found to be inhalant allergens. According to researcher Wang R., of these allergens, the most prevalent were Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Dermatophagoides farinae, and Artemisia.
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- Nausea and vomiting: A case of a 47-year-old woman who complained of nausea and vomiting after the first and second day of her moxibustion treatment was reported by K. Chan. According to the researcher, the woman had undergone the treatment to alleviate her body’s adverse responses to the chemotherapy she was undergoing six months after her rectal cancer surgery. After she discontinued the moxibustion, nausea and vomiting disappeared.
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- Neuropsychiatric symptoms: Doctors Yavuz Altunkaynak et al. reported that two patients started exhibiting neuropsychiatric symptoms after consuming excessive mugwort (Artemisia absinthium) tea. The doctors stated that they had been unable to determine the dosage consumed by the patients. The first patient, aged 53, reported cognitive disturbances and hallucinations for 48 hours. However, the symptoms disappeared two days after an intravenous liquid replacement therapy. The second patient, aged 32, reported feeling disoriented for five days. After five days, the disorientation disappeared.
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- Miscarriage: Researchers Abdalla Mohammad Hijazi et al. observed what they called “a “dramatic mid-term abortion” in impregnated rats on days 10 to 12 of gestation after they were administered 50 mg/kg or 300 mg/kg of Artemisia monosperma ethanolic extract.
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- Hypertension: If consumed in excess, mugwort may cause high blood pressure, according to Halina Ekiert et al.
What Is The Main Benefit And Use Of Mugwort Supplement?
Mugwort supplements have been proven to improve health and yield other benefits. Below are some of the benefits:
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- Mugwort helps boost energy: Mugwort is used as a “moxa in traditional Chinese medicine.” A moxa is any material burned and made to go close to or placed on the body’s acupuncture and meridian points to enable the flow of qi or energy. According to practitioners, good health is maintained when these energy blockages are removed. Researchers Halina Ekiert et al. stated that mugwort extract is typically poured on cotton bud tips, or mugwort leaves are used to fill cigarettes and then set on fire for moxibustion. Scientific research has also found that fetuses feel these energy-boosting effects in impregnated mothers who undergo moxibustion. A study by F. Cardini et al. concluded that fetuses exhibited more activity after the mother had seven days of moxibustion treatment, with an additional seven days of treatment if the fetus remained in the breech position.
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- Mugwort can help treat gastrointestinal issues: An in vitro study by Gaudencio Natividad et al. found that the chloroform and methanolic extracts from mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) decreased ileum contractions. These are the primary causes of pain experienced in gastrointestinal disorders, which typically result from an obstruction in an internal body part such as the kidneys and intestines. An in vivo study by Arif Ullah-Khan et al. using animal models found that crude mugwort extract (Av.Cr) also induced an inhibitory effect on diarrhea caused by castor oil in the subjects. The researchers said that pretreatment with the crude mugwort extract at 300 mg/kg generated 20% protection, while a 1,000 mg/kg pretreatment produced 60% protection. The inhibitory effect was dose-dependent (300–1,000 mg/kg). According to researcher K.P. Prabhakaran Nair, mugwort in combination with ginger has also been used to treat diarrhea in complementary medicine with success. Acupuncturists use moxibustion to address qi deficiencies in the spleen, which are believed to cause the condition. For the process, ginger is perforated and sliced one to two centimeters thick, and placed on the umbilicus of the patient suffering from diarrhea. The moxa or mugwort rolled into a cone is placed on the disk and lit. The lit moxa stays there until the area turns red and the patient sweats. According to K.P. Prabhakaran Nair, four to five cones are burned for one session.
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- Mugwort can help support liver health: A study by Anwarul Hassan Gilani et al. using animal models found that crude mugwort extract administered to the subjects at different doses, 150 mg/kg to 600 mg/kg, decreased elevated alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels, which can indicate liver damage. An analysis of the subjects’ livers also showed that their liver architecture had improved; there was less swelling and a reduced number of apoptotic cells compared with the group that did not receive the treatment. The researchers did not observe parenchyma blockage, which may also indicate liver damage.
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- Mugwort can help calm nerves: A study by Imran Khan et al. using animal models found that the carnosol, ursolic, and oleanolic acid derived from Artemisia indica exhibited anxiolytic properties. The subjects that were administered 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg of the extracts 30 minutes before being injected with pentylenetetrazol to induce seizures, spent more time in open arm entries in an elevated plus maze and increased their percentage of open-arm entries, an indication of anxiety reduction. Each set of subjects also spent more time in the light compartment after being subjected to a light dark test, also proving the extracts’ anti-anxiety properties.
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- Mugwort can help relieve itching: A study by Rei Ogawa et al. found that 14 of 15 patients who used mugwort lotion on their severely itchy hypertrophic scars derived from second to third-degree burns reported positive associations with the herb, with some noting only intermittent itching after using two times daily for two months. The lotion used in the study was composed of 6.25 g of mugwort extract, 2.5 g of l-menthol, 175 cc of absolute ethanol, and distilled water and was applied in areas of 10 x 10 centimeters on the skin.
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- Mugwort repels insects: A study by De Yue Luo found that the essential oils found in Artemisia argyi in seven regions in China yielded insecticidal activities against Anopheles sinensis, a mosquito species that transmit malaria. According to study results, the essential oil derived from Artemisia argyi from Hubei province exhibited the highest larvicidal activity, with an average fatal concentration of 40.23 µg/mL. Of the components of Artemisia vulgaris, De Yue Luo et al. found that eucalyptol was the most toxic fumigant while phytol exhibited the most potent larvicidal activity.
What Are The Forms Of Mugwort Supplements?
Mugwort comes in many supplement forms. Those who wish to benefit from the herb’s properties may consume it in any of these types:
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- Mugwort pills: Mugwort powder can be enclosed in capsules or solidified into tablets for consumption. The mugwort pill dosage recommended by supplement manufacturers varies. GinSen recommends daily consumption of 3 g of its mugwort tablets for at least one week for maximum effectiveness. Nature’s Health, meanwhile, recommends taking two capsules containing 1,060 mg of mugwort daily.
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- Mugwort liquid extract: Mugwort liquid extract is the liquid derived from the aerial parts of mugwort that can be consumed in many ways. It can be placed under the tongue and ingested directly, consumed with water or other beverages, mixed with water and applied topically, applied directly to the skin, or sprayed on the skin.
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- Mugwort raw powder: The raw powder of mugwort is typically derived from the plant’s leaves. It can be mixed in hot water to create tea for consumption or enclosed by the supplement manufacturer in tea bags which should be dipped in boiling water to make tea. Mugwort raw powder can also be sprinkled on food to add flavor.
What Is The Difference Between Liquid And Pill Mugwort Supplements?
Apart from their physical form, mugwort liquid and pill supplements differ in other ways. Here are some of their differences:
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- Mugwort supplements in pill form can be consumed in one way: via direct ingestion. On the other hand, mugwort supplements in liquid form can be consumed in multiple ways: via direct ingestion or topical application (spraying or direct application). Consumers may choose the method of consumption according to their preferences. However, the mode in which liquid mugwort supplements should be consumed can also depend on the type of benefit one wishes to gain. For example, the topical method, whether via spraying or direct application, is usually employed by people who want to achieve mugwort’s reported skincare benefits. If users find a mugwort pill form in the dosage they want, they can consume the desired amount without measuring the proper dose each time. With mugwort liquid supplements ingested orally (by drinking), the user can take any amount and not be restricted by pre-determined dosages.
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- Liquid extract allows for faster absorption and optimized use. According to Medicare Europe, the body does not need to break liquid extracts down for digestion. Only 22 to 30 seconds are required for 85% to 90% of the liquid supplement to be assimilated by the body. When it does get absorbed, Medicare Europe states that the body uses 98% of the liquid extract. In contrast, the body uses 10% to 20% of the pills’ nutrients upon assimilation.
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- Mugwort liquid extract is easier to consume than pills for some people, especially for patients who have difficulty swallowing.
Is Liquid Mugwort Supplement Better Than Mugwort Pills?
It depends on the consumer. Those who have difficulty swallowing may find liquid mugwort supplements are better than pills. Those who are always on the go, on the other hand, may find that capsules and tablets are easier to use than liquid supplements. Liquid mugwort supplements may also be better for users who wish to gain mugwort’s specific health benefits, such as those related to skin health (direct skin application via direct contact and spraying).
Many scientific studies that have proven mugwort’s benefits involved clinical trials in liquid extract form. Regardless of the type of mugwort supplement one plans to use, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised prior to consumption.
Does Mugwort Powder Supplement Have Less Nutritional Value?
No. A pill is mugwort powder enclosed in a capsule or solidified into a tablet. The nutritional value, in all likelihood, is the same. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advised before consumption.
Should I Buy Gluten-Free Mugwort?
Gluten-free mugwort supplements are better than non-gluten-free supplements since they do not contain gluten or wheat, rye, or barley ingredients. In low-quality supplement manufacturing, the starches found in non-gluten-free mugwort supplements can be used in tablets and capsules as excipients, diluents, disintegrants, or binding agents. Due to the assurance that there are no hidden gluten compounds in gluten-free mugwort supplements, people with certain health conditions, such as Celiac disease, prefer them.
Who Are The Best Producers Of Mugwort Supplements?
The following are considered the best producers of mugwort supplements:
- Essential Formulas
- Gaia Herbs
- Enzymedica
- Derma-E
- Wise Woman Herbals
- Bioray
- NutriBiotic
These established supplement manufacturers sell mugwort supplements in liquid extract, raw powder, or pill forms.
How Does Premier Formulas Choose The Best Mugwort Supplements?
At Premier Formulas, we only select mugwort supplements that have undergone an extensive assessment of documented proof that the manufacturing company follows federal cGMP regulations and guidelines. Samples of their products from our inventory must also pass initial and quarterly randomized testing from independent laboratories. Our key mission is to provide high-quality supplements and the information for our patrons to use them in an educated, effective, and safe manner. We want you to know that we care about your health when choosing your mugwort supplements. After all, we give the same products to our family as we provide to you and your family.
Can You Use Mugwort As A Sleep Enhancer?
Yes. Studies have found that mugwort alleviates stress, which can then help promote deep sleep. A study using animal models conducted by researchers Imran Khan et al. found that the carnosol, ursolic, and oleanolic acid derived from Artemisia indica exhibited anxiolytic properties in subjects administered 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg of the extracts. A reduction in anxiety levels was also observed in subjects administered 100 and 200 mg/kg of Artemisia persica’s hydroalcoholic extract, according to another study using animal models conducted by Nashmeh Asharzadeh. The reduction in anxiety levels was concluded following an observed increase in the subjects’ number of entries into open arms and an increase in their time in open arms in a plus maze.
Anecdotal evidence has shown that mugwort can enhance lucid dreams. Many users have reported having vivid dreams after drinking mugwort tea. However, according to herbalist Scott Kloos, consuming mugwort in other forms, such as a tincture or smoke, can yield the same results.
References:
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- Gao, S., Zhang, K., Wei, L., Wei, G., Xiong, W., & Lu, Y. et al. (2020). Insecticidal Activity of Artemisia vulgaris Essential Oil and Transcriptome Analysis of Tribolium castaneum in Response to Oil Exposure. Frontiers In Genetics, 11. doi: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00589
- Sci-Hub | <i>Artemisia</i> Allergy Research in China | 10.1155/2015/179426. (2022). Retrieved 8 April 2022, from https://sci-hub.hkvisa.net/10.1155/2015/179426
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