Description
Artemisia vulgaris
Hardy fast growing rhizomatous herbaceous perennial.
Artemisia species are known for the powerful chemical constituents in their essential oils – substances such as terpenoids, flavonoids, coumarins, caffeoylquinic acids,and sterols which have been extracted for medicinal and other uses such as insecticides, antimalarials, cytotoxins, antihepatotoxic, fungicides, antibacterials, and allelochemicals.
Mugwort leaves are bitter but their addition to the diet aids the digestion and so they can be used in small quantities as a flavouring, especially with fatty foods. The dried leaves can be used to make a seasoning for poultry stuffing, especially for goose, and soups, and fresh leaves can be rubbed on fatty meats before roasting. In Japan the young leaves are used as a potherb. The dried leaves and flowering tops are steeped into tea. They have also been used as a flavouring in gruit ales (a type of beer), though fell into virtual disuse once hops came into favour.
Mugwort has a long history of use in herbal medicine especially in matters connected to the digestive system, menstrual complaints and the treatment of worms. It is slightly toxic, however, and should never be used by pregnant women. It is also known as “dream weed” for its unique ability to stimulate dreams. It is renowned as a smudging herb for its subtle, sweet scent and dream-inducing qualities. It can be fed to stock as an anthelmintic.
The fresh or the dried plant repels insects, it can be used as a spray but caution is advised since it can also inhibit plant growth. A weak tea made from the infused plant is a good all-purpose insecticide.
Full sun, well drained soil. Drought hardy. Artemisias tend to be longer lived, more hardy and more aromatic when they are grown in a poor dry soil. Height to 1.2m
Certified organic plant.
Freight: full list of freight and packing charges
Photos: wikimedia.commons.org/kahikateafarm
