Beauty addicts, listen up: there’s a brand new skincare ingredient on the block.
Mugwort, otherwise known as Artemisia Vulgaris, is a root-based perennial plant that has been used by ancient cultures for centuries.
And if it sounds vaguely mythical to you, you’re spot on – the botanical name is derived from the Olympian goddess Artemis in Greek Mythology, guardian of the hunt, the moon and fertility.
It’s got a pretty rich history, dating back to the 5th century, when Anglo-Saxon tribes regarded mugwort as a sacred herb. Later on, the Romans planted mugwort on countryside paths to help travellers rest their weary feet. Look closely, and you’ll likely find it growing in hedgerows today.
Mugwort also came in handy throughout history when flavouring drinks – beer, specifically, before hops took over at the end of the 15th century. Traditionally, the plant was also used in a host of natural remedies to treat indigestion, boost blood circulation and relieve menstrual cramps – that’s where “vulgaris” comes in.
Nowadays, mugwort is increasingly cropping up in skincare products, especially in Korean beauty culture, where the powerful plant is being incorporated for its rich, radiance-boosting properties.
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How is Mugwort used?
When it comes to Mugwort, nothing is wasted. Every part of the plant can be used, from the flowering tops and leaves, down to the earthy roots.
It’s available in many different forms too, from nourishing creams and dried herbs, to smudge sticks, powders and teas.
Packed with high levels of antioxidants, the plant has multiple health benefits, and can alleviate everything from aching joints to digestive issues. It’s the incredible skincare benefits of mugwort that we’re going to focus on specifically though – more on that below.
How can it help the skin?
If there was ever a multi-tasking ingredient to banish your skincare woes, you can turn to mugwort.
Thanks to its anti-bacterial properties, it can be used to treat a host of skin complaints. Angry spots? Sensitive rashes? Persistent acne? A touch of mugwort could be the trick to battle your breakouts.