The drug is used to treat complaints and disorders in the gastrointestinal tract. Mugwort herb is said to be a helpful remedy for diarrhea, constipation, colic and cramps.
In general, it is said to stimulate gastric juice and bile secretion, which is utilized in cases of loss of appetite. In obesity it can be used as a laxative.
Furthermore, it finds application in worm infestation, constant vomiting, menstrual disorders (for example, irregular periods) and is considered a means to promote blood circulation.
Mugwort in neurological diseases
In addition to all the above effects, mugwort also has an influence on neurological diseases. For example, it is used for convulsions, especially in children, epilepsy and hysteria, and as a sedative. However, its efficacy for the above-mentioned indications has not been proven, and more recent studies in this regard are currently lacking.
Application in folk medicine and as a homeopathic agent
Mugwort herb has been used since ancient times for numerous medicinal and even magical purposes, for example as an appetite stimulant, menstrual and digestive stimulant, and diuretic. Today, the drug is not as commonly used for gastritis, flatulence, and to stimulate gastric juice production. Occasionally it is used as a worm-killing agent (anthelmintic) and for menstrual complaints.
In homeopathic medicine, mugwort is taken for cramp disorders and complaints associated with worm infestation.
Mugwort: inhalants
Mugwort herb contains 0.03-0.3% essential oil of variable composition. Common constituents of the oil are camphor, thujone, linalool, and numerous monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. Other important active ingredients present in the drug include coumarins, flavonol glycosides, caffeic acid, and phenolic carboxylic acids.
Indications for the use of mugwort
Indications for which mugwort is used are:
- Gastrointestinal complaints
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Digestive disorders
- Constipation
- Colic
- Cramps
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Worm infestation
- Menstrual disorders
- Circulatory disorders
- Epilepsy
- Hysteria
