All about Mugwort
Introducing the Mother Herb, plant of introspection, intution and lucid dreaming.
I was introduced to this magical plant in one of my first shamanic training sessions. We were using the smoke to cleanse our space, and my teacher mentioned you could also smoke it. I gave it a try afterwards, and the effects, although not mind-altering, were indeed profound.
One of the best activities for self-discovery and healing is journaling. You’ll surprise yourself with what you discover when you honestly and spontaneously let your feelings flow onto a page.
Using mugwort as part of my journaling helped illuminate some recurring patterns. Where I would usually avoid uncomfortable emotions, the plant guided me to sit with those feelings to understand what was beneath the surface.
I regularly use mugwort in tea ceremonies to help guests tune in to their intuition. I steep the leaves and the participants stir intentions into the brew in an anti-clockwise direction. This helps us release what is no longer serving, such as unhealthy attachments, resentments, habits and unconscious belief systems.
For me, smoking the mother herb seems to deliver the most potent benefit. It sharpens my psychic connection and intuition. However, in a group setting, the ritual of preparing and sharing mugwort tea is powerful and beneficial.
The herb also has medicinal benefits. When used as a tea or tincture it regulates menstruation (there’s a strong affiliation with mugwort and the cycles of the moon). Due to its warming effect on tissues, Mugwort increases blood flow and soothes menstrual cramps. It also eases digestive problems and bloating. In addition, mugwort’s cleansing properties means it detoxifies the liver, acting as a diuretic and laxative.
Mugwort
With the energy of a full moon, I find mugwort deepens my shamanic journeying and shadow work.
Shadow work is when we acknowledge and work to accept parts of ourselves we suppress due to shame and fear.
I would recommend working with the plant if you are looking to go deeper into your spiritual practice. The feminine nature of the plant will gently guide you to compassionate introspection. You’ll gain inner wisdom and sharpen your intuition.
When you shine the light on the dark places inside your psyche, you have the opportunity to understand and transform them.