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Mugwort: What It Is and How to Use It

Mugwort: What It Is and How to Use It

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a hardy perennial in the daisy family, with silvery-green leaves that are dark on top and pale underneath, and a distinctive sage-like aroma. It grows wild across North America, Europe, and Asia, and has one of the longest histories of any herb in folk traditions around the world. You can find it in the bulk herb section at William's Natural Foods, 12249 San Pablo Ave, Richmond, CA 94805.

Available in Bulk

We carry mugwort in our bulk herb section so you can grab the exact amount you want — from a spoonful for a tea experiment to a full bag for craft or culinary projects. Our staff can help you find it in the bulk bins and answer questions about how it is typically used.

What We Carry

  • Mugwort cut and sifted — dried leaves and flowering tops, the standard form for teas and crafts.
  • Mugwort powder — finely ground herb for blending.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mugwort traditionally used for?

Mugwort has an unusually rich folklore — in medieval Europe it was one of the nine sacred herbs of Anglo-Saxon tradition, carried by travelers for protection. In East Asia, a related species is burned as moxa in traditional moxibustion practice. It was also traditionally used in dream pillows and sachets for its aromatic qualities. Modern evidence for medicinal effects is limited.

Can you cook with mugwort?

Yes — mugwort is used as a culinary herb in several traditions. In Korea, young mugwort leaves (ssuk) are used in soups, rice cakes, and pancakes. In Japan, a related species flavors kusa mochi, the green rice cakes. The flavor is aromatic and slightly bitter, similar to a strong sage. Use it sparingly until you know how much you like.

What does mugwort smell and taste like?

Mugwort has a complex, resinous aroma — somewhere between sage, chrysanthemum, and juniper. Brewed as a tea, it is aromatic and mildly bitter with a warming quality. The scent is strong enough that the dried herb is also popular in sachets and potpourri.

Is mugwort the same as wormwood?

No, though they are close relatives in the Artemisia genus. Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) is the famously bitter herb used in absinthe, while mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is milder and more aromatic. They look somewhat similar, so buy from the labeled bulk bin rather than foraging unless you are experienced.

Did you know? Mugwort is so aromatic that in parts of Europe it was traditionally hung in bundles over doorways — not just for folklore, but because its scent was believed to freshen the air and discourage insects (source: Royal Horticultural Society plant profile for Artemisia vulgaris).

Visit William's Natural Foods at 12249 San Pablo Ave, Richmond, CA — open Monday through Friday 9 AM to 7 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 6 PM, and Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM. Our staff are happy to help you find mugwort in the bulk section and answer questions about the forms we carry.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or a qualified health professional about any health questions.