mugwort

plant

Also known as: Artemisia vulgaris

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

Mugwort refers to several species of aromatic herbs or shrubs belonging to the genus Artemisia. These plants, distributed globally, are known for their bitter or aromatic qualities and are often cultivated for their essential oils, used in flavorings and traditional medicine.1

Key species include:
* Common mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris): Used medicinally and to flavor beverages like gruit ales.12
* Annual mugwort (Artemisia annua): The source of artemisinin, a crucial medication for treating malaria.1

Mugwort plants typically have numerous small, greenish-yellow flower heads and divided leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The leaves can vary in color from green to silvery white.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

wormwood
Common mugwort, or wild wormwood (A. vulgaris), is often used to flavour beverages, including gruit ales, and as a culinary herb. The plant is also used medicinally for menstrual pain and as an herbal abortifacient of unknown safety and efficacy. Annual mugwort, also called sweet wormwood…
Read More
Common mugwort, or wild wormwood (A. vulgaris), is often used to flavour beverages, including gruit ales, and as a culinary herb. The plant is also used medicinally for menstrual pain and as an herbal abortifacient of unknown safety and efficacy. Annual mugwort, also called sweet wormwood…
Read More