Mugwort has long been valued in herbal traditions for its calming properties.
This versatile herb can soothe sore muscles, calm irritated skin, and even aid sleep. Crafting mugwort-infused oil at home is straightforward and rewarding. It’s a natural way to enjoy the plant’s benefits, whether for skincare, massage, or as a sleep aid.
In this article, you will learn:
- The benefits of mugwort infused oil for wellness and skincare.
- Simple steps to create your own mugwort-infused oil.
- Practical uses and precautions to keep in mind.
Let’s get started by understanding what makes mugwort special.
What is Mugwort?
Mugwort, also known as Artemisia vulgaris, is a hardy herb with a long history in herbal medicine. It’s native to Europe and Asia and is found growing wild across Ireland, where it thrives along roadsides, meadows, and even coastal areas. For centuries, people have used mugwort in folk remedies and rituals, especially for its calming effects on the mind and body.
Traditionally, mugwort was burned as incense or placed under pillows to encourage vivid dreams. Some believed it could enhance intuition and help with lucid dreaming. Beyond its mystical associations, mugwort has practical uses too. It’s well-known for soothing sore muscles, easing digestive discomfort, and calming irritated skin.
The herb belongs to the Artemisia family, which includes other well-known medicinal plants like wormwood. While there are many types of mugwort, Artemisia vulgaris is the most common for oil infusions. Its aromatic leaves contain beneficial compounds like flavonoids and essential oils, which give it its therapeutic qualities.
When foraging mugwort, ensure proper identification, as it can resemble toxic plants like ragwort. Its distinct sage-like scent and dark green leaves with a silvery underside can help you recognise it. Always harvest away from busy roads to avoid contamination from pollutants.
Now that you understand what makes mugwort special, let’s explore its benefits.
Benefits of Mugwort Infused Oil
Mugwort infused oil offers a range of soothing benefits, making it a versatile addition to your home remedies. Its calming and anti-inflammatory properties have earned it a reputation as a natural way to support wellbeing, especially for the skin, muscles, and sleep.
1. Soothes Sore Muscles and Joints
Mugwort oil is perfect for a massage after a long day. The herb’s natural anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce muscle tension and ease joint pain. Rubbing the oil onto sore areas can provide gentle relief, particularly for those dealing with aches from physical activity or arthritis.
2. Calms Irritated Skin
Thanks to its mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, mugwort oil can soothe dry, itchy, or inflamed skin. It’s ideal for applying to insect bites, minor rashes, or irritated patches. Some people even use it to calm eczema or mild psoriasis symptoms. Simply massage a small amount onto the affected area and let its properties work to ease discomfort.
3. Promotes Restful Sleep
Mugwort’s reputation for dream enhancement isn’t just folklore. Some believe it can help improve sleep quality by promoting deeper, more restful slumber. Applying the infused oil to your feet or temples before bed might aid relaxation and set the stage for vivid dreams. While this isn’t a magic cure for insomnia, it can be a comforting addition to your bedtime routine.
4. Supports Digestive Health (Topical Use)
Though mugwort is often consumed in herbal teas for digestive support, the infused oil can also be used topically. Massaging it onto the abdomen may help soothe bloating or digestive discomfort, leveraging the herb’s traditional role in calming the digestive system.
5. Adds a Ritualistic Touch to Self-Care
There’s something comforting about using mugwort oil during meditation or self-massage. Its earthy scent and gentle warmth can add a sense of grounding to your self-care practices. For those who enjoy mindfulness, it can be a pleasant way to connect with herbal traditions.
While mugwort-infused oil is generally safe, remember to avoid using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as some compounds may affect uterine contractions. Always do a patch test first to check for any skin sensitivities.
Next, let’s look at what you’ll need to start making your own mugwort-infused oil.
Supplies You’ll Need
Creating mugwort infused oil is a simple process that doesn’t require fancy equipment. With the right supplies, you’ll be ready to craft your own natural remedy at home. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Dried Mugwort
Dried mugwort is the main ingredient, as fresh mugwort can introduce moisture that leads to mould. You can forage mugwort if it grows nearby (remember to identify it correctly), or purchase dried mugwort from a reputable herbal supplier. Aim for loose, dried leaves rather than finely powdered herbs.
2. Carrier Oil
Choose a carrier oil as the base for your infusion. Popular choices include:
- Olive Oil – Affordable, easy to find, and has a long shelf life.
- Jojoba Oil – Similar to skin’s natural oils, great for skincare applications.
- Sweet Almond Oil – Lightweight and absorbs quickly, ideal for massage.
Any good quality, cold-pressed oil will work. Make sure the oil you choose doesn’t have a strong scent that could overpower the mugwort’s aroma.
3. Glass Jar with Lid
Use a clean, dry glass jar for the infusion process. A mason jar or an old jam jar works well. The lid should seal tightly to keep out air and contaminants. The size of the jar depends on how much oil you’d like to make, but a 250-500ml jar is a good starting point.
4. Strainer or Cheesecloth
A fine strainer or cheesecloth is needed to filter out the herbs once the infusion is complete. Cheesecloth tends to work better for herbal infusions, as it allows you to squeeze out every drop of oil.
5. Dark Glass Storage Bottle (Optional)
Transfer the finished oil into a dark glass bottle to protect it from light, which can degrade the oil over time. If you only have a clear glass bottle, store it in a cool, dark cupboard.
Optional: Essential Oils
If you’d like to add a fragrance boost or extra benefits, consider adding a few drops of essential oils like lavender or chamomile. This step is entirely optional, but it can enhance the scent and therapeutic qualities of your mugwort oil.
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to prepare your mugwort for infusion. Let’s look at how to get your herbs ready.
How to Prepare Mugwort for Infusion
Before you start making your mugwort infused oil, it’s important to prepare the herb properly. This step ensures your infusion will be safe, potent, and free from any unwanted surprises like mould. Here’s how to get your mugwort ready:
1. Harvesting Mugwort (If Foraging)
If you plan to forage mugwort, make sure you identify it correctly. Look for the dark green leaves with a silvery underside and the distinctive sage-like scent. Mugwort grows widely across Ireland, often along roadsides and meadows. Always harvest away from busy roads, where plants may be exposed to pollution. Aim to pick the leaves on a dry day, as damp herbs can spoil more easily.
2. Drying the Mugwort
Drying is essential for preventing mould growth in your oil. Spread the mugwort leaves on a clean surface in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. You can also bundle the stems and hang them upside down to dry. Depending on humidity, this process usually takes 1-2 weeks. You’ll know the mugwort is ready when the leaves crumble easily.
3. Cleaning the Dried Mugwort
Once dried, gently shake the leaves to remove any dust or insects. Discard any damaged or brown parts. Breaking the leaves into smaller pieces will help them release their beneficial properties into the oil, but avoid grinding them into a powder, as this makes straining more difficult later.
4. Safety Tips for Foraging and Using Mugwort
If you’re new to foraging, remember that some plants resemble mugwort but are toxic, such as ragwort. The key differences are mugwort’s distinctive smell and the silver hue beneath its leaves. When in doubt, seek advice from an experienced forager or herbalist. If you’d rather not forage, you can always purchase pre-dried mugwort from a trusted herbal supplier.
With your mugwort now dried and ready, it’s time to start the infusion process. Let’s go step-by-step through making your own mugwort infused oil.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mugwort Infused Oil
Now that your mugwort is prepared, it’s time to make your infused oil. This simple process can be done with either a slow infusion (requiring patience) or a quicker heat method. Follow these steps to create a beautiful mugwort oil you can use in skincare, massage, and more.
1. Fill a Jar with Dried Mugwort
Start by placing the dried mugwort in your clean, dry glass jar. Aim to fill the jar about halfway. This allows the herbs to infuse well without overcrowding. For example, if using a 250ml jar, you’ll need around 30-40 grams of dried mugwort.
2. Add Your Carrier Oil
Pour your chosen carrier oil over the dried mugwort until it’s completely covered. Make sure to leave a little space at the top of the jar, about 1-2cm, to allow for any expansion. Use a chopstick or the handle of a spoon to gently stir the mixture, ensuring there are no air bubbles trapped inside.
3. Infuse the Mixture
You have two options here, depending on your patience and preferences:
- Slow Infusion (4-6 Weeks)
Seal the jar with the lid and place it in a warm, sunny spot. A windowsill works well. Let it sit for 4-6 weeks, giving it a gentle shake every few days to help the infusion along. This method draws out more of the herb’s benefits. - Quick Heat Infusion (4-6 Hours)
For a faster method, place the jar in a heatproof pot filled with warm water. Keep the water on a very low heat, allowing it to warm the oil gently without boiling. Let it sit for 4-6 hours, topping up the water if needed. Make sure the oil doesn’t get too hot, as this can damage its beneficial compounds.
4. Strain and Store
Once your infusion is complete, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine strainer to remove the mugwort. Squeeze the cloth gently to get every last drop. Transfer the infused oil into a dark glass bottle to protect it from light, which helps preserve its quality. Label the bottle with the date, so you know when it was made. Your mugwort infused oil should last about 6-12 months if stored in a cool, dark place.
5. Optional: Adding Essential Oils
If you’d like to personalise the scent or boost the oil’s benefits, add a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender for relaxation or tea tree for extra skin-soothing properties. Shake well to combine.
You’ve now created your own mugwort-infused oil! Now, let’s explore some practical ways to use it in your daily life.
How to Use Mugwort-Infused Oil
Now that you’ve crafted your own mugwort infused oil, it’s time to make the most of its soothing benefits. Here are practical ways to incorporate this versatile oil into your daily routines, along with a few safety notes to keep in mind.
1. Massage for Muscle Relief
Mugwort oil works wonders as a natural massage oil. Use it to relieve muscle soreness or tension after a workout. Simply warm a small amount between your hands and massage into the affected area. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce discomfort, especially when combined with gentle stretching or a hot compress.
2. Skin Soothing Treatment
If you have dry, irritated, or itchy skin, mugwort oil can offer some comfort. Dab a little onto affected areas, such as insect bites or dry patches. For those with eczema or mild psoriasis, it can help soothe flare-ups. Always do a patch test first to ensure you don’t react to the oil, especially if you have sensitive skin.
3. Aid for Better Sleep
To use mugwort oil as part of your bedtime routine, try massaging a small amount onto your temples, wrists, or the soles of your feet before bed. The herb’s calming scent can help create a relaxing atmosphere. Some even believe it encourages vivid dreams. While there’s no guarantee you’ll dream more, it can certainly add a pleasant ritual to help unwind.
4. Topical Support for Digestive Discomfort
For occasional bloating or mild digestive issues, you can massage the oil onto your abdomen in circular motions. This can help relax the area and support natural digestion. For an extra soothing effect, combine it with a hot water bottle placed gently on the belly.
5. Add to Baths for a Relaxing Soak
Transform your bath into a calming retreat by adding a tablespoon of mugwort infused oil to the water. Mix it with a little Epsom salt for an even more soothing experience. The warm water will help your skin absorb the oil’s benefits, while the scent promotes relaxation.
Safety Tips and Precautions
- Avoid During Pregnancy: Mugwort is not recommended for pregnant women, as some compounds may affect uterine contractions.
- Patch Test: Always test the oil on a small patch of skin before using more extensively.
- Store Safely: Keep the oil out of direct sunlight and away from moisture to maintain its quality.
With these uses in mind, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy your homemade mugwort infused oil.
Creating your own mugwort infused oil is a simple yet rewarding way to tap into the benefits of this ancient herb. From easing sore muscles to soothing irritated skin and promoting restful sleep, mugwort offers a range of natural support for both body and mind.
By following the steps outlined, you now have a versatile oil that can be used in daily routines—whether for a relaxing massage, as part of your skincare, or even to aid digestion. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ve crafted something personal and beneficial.
Now that you’ve mastered mugwort infused oil, why not explore making other herbal oils like lavender or rosemary? These oils can complement your mugwort infusion, giving you even more options to enhance your natural self-care routine.
Herbal infusions are a wonderful way to reconnect with nature’s remedies, and mugwort is just the beginning.
Are you ready to make your own mugwort oil?
Lottie
Unpacking the re-membering of land, lineage and the fire inside, Lottie is the founder here at the Wild Soul Tribe.
Lottie believes in walking the path less travels, which has taken her from living in Burkina Faso, to trekking some of the biggest mountains in the world.
Now growing within her Irish heritage, Lottie supports others to experience a little adventure AND inner peace.