Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in East Asia and Europe. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), mugwort is known as "Ai Ye" and has been used in practices like moxibustion and as a herbal remedy for a range of ailments, including respiratory issues such as colds. Folk medicine in Europe also employed mugwort in teas or infusions to address symptoms like coughs, congestion, and fever—common features of the common cold. Its use was based on the belief that mugwort possesses warming, stimulating, and clearing properties which could help expel "cold" from the body and support immune function.

Scientifically, the evidence is limited. Some laboratory studies have found that extracts of mugwort demonstrate mild antimicrobial and antiviral activity in vitro, but these studies are preliminary and do not directly examine cold viruses such as rhinovirus or coronavirus in human subjects. There are also a few studies on related Artemisia species (like Artemisia annua) showing antiviral effects, but these findings cannot be directly applied to mugwort. No high-quality clinical trials have demonstrated mugwort’s efficacy in treating or preventing the common cold in humans. Therefore, while traditional use is well established, scientific support remains minimal, resulting in a low evidence score.

More about Mugwort
More about Colds (antiviral)

Other ingredients used for Colds (antiviral)

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Products containing Mugwort

Nature's Sunshine Artemisia Combination
Nature's Sunshine Para-Cleanse