Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
The common mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), also called spice mugwort or common mugwort, is a plant species of the genus Artemisia in the daisy family (Asteraceae) and reaches heights of 60 centimetres to 2 metres. Mugwort is found in Europe, the temperate regions of Asia and in North Africa and is one of the oldest ritual plants in Europe. Incense burning with mugwort goes back to Celtic-Germanic times. It was believed that mugwort drove away evil spirits. At the summer solstice, the herb was thrown into the fire to get rid of all evil. Since the plant was sacred to the ancient Germans, it was demonised as a witch's herb in Christian times. Today, this powerful herb is smoked for protection and to promote clairvoyance.