The Outdoor Apothecary is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
Cleansing a space can be a powerful practice to clear out negative energy and create a more harmonious environment. One popular plant for this purpose is mugwort, known for its protective and purifying properties. In this blog, we will delve into the use of mugwort for cleansing, provide detailed instructions on how to make your own mugwort cleansing sticks, and address common questions about this practice.
"MUGWORT IS A POWERFUL VISIONARY HERB THAT HAS BEEN USED FOR CENTURIES TO CONNECT US TO THE SPIRITUAL REALMS. IT ENHANCES INTUITION, PSYCHIC POWERS, AND DREAM WORK, AND IS A SACRED PLANT FOR MANY INDIGENOUS CULTURES. MUGWORT IS TRULY A MAGICAL HERB THAT CAN HELP US TAP INTO THE MYSTERIES OF THE UNIVERSE AND ACCESS OUR DEEPEST WISDOM."
-ROSEMARY GLADSTAR Tweet
Mugwort: A Powerful Protector
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a perennial herb that has been used for centuries in various cultures for its medicinal and spiritual properties. It is often associated with protection and purification. In traditional practices, mugwort is used to ward off negative energy, enhance dreams, and facilitate spiritual healing.
The Importance of Terminology
It is essential to address the terminology used in cleansing practices. As an Indigenous person, I want to clarify that the term “smudging” is specific to Indigenous ceremonies and rituals and should be reserved for those contexts. Cleansing a space with herbs like mugwort can be performed by anyone and should be referred to as such, to honor and respect Indigenous traditions.
HARVESTING MUGWORT
The first step in making mugwort cleansing sticks is to harvest the plant. Mugwort is commonly found in wild areas, along roadsides, and in gardens. Mugwort is an invasive plant where I live, so there are no restrictions on how much you can harvest. This makes it a perfect candidate for creating cleansing sticks without worrying about over-harvesting.
WHEN TO HARVEST
- Timing: The optimal time to harvest mugwort is on a dry day, preferably in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Identification: Ensure you correctly identify mugwort. It has deeply lobed leaves that are green on the top and silver-gray underneath. The plant also has a distinctive aroma when crushed.
HOW TO HARVEST
- Tools: Use a sharp pair of garden shears or scissors.
- Technique: Cut the stems about 1/3 of the way down the plant. Since it is invasive where I live, I pull the whole plant out by the root and then cut off what I want.
- Amount: Harvest as much as you want since this is an invasive plant.
DRYING MUGWORT
Once harvested, the mugwort needs to be properly dried to create cleansing sticks. Drying preserves the plant and makes it easier to bundle.
DRYING METHODS
Air Drying: This is the most traditional and effective method.
- Bundle: Gather small bunches of mugwort and tie them with string or rubber bands.
- Hang: Hang the bundles upside down in a well-ventilated, dry area away from direct sunlight. A dark, dry room with good airflow is ideal.
- Duration: Allow the mugwort to dry for about 1-2 weeks. The leaves should be crispy to the touch when fully dried.
Oven Drying: If you need to speed up the process.
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to its lowest setting.
- Spread: Lay the mugwort stems on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drying: Place in the oven with the door slightly open to allow moisture to escape. Check frequently to avoid burning. This process should take a few hours.
ASSEMBLING MUGWORT CLEANSING STICKS
Once your mugwort is fully dried, you can begin assembling the cleansing sticks. These are easy to make and require only a few additional materials.
MATERIALS NEEDED
- Dried mugwort
- Cotton string or twine
- Scissors
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Prepare the Mugwort: Lay out the dried mugwort on a flat surface. Arrange the stems so that the thicker ends are aligned.
- Form a Bundle: Gather a handful of mugwort stems. The bundle should be about 1 inch in diameter.
- Tie the Base: Start at the thicker end of the bundle. Wrap the string tightly around the base a few times, then tie a knot, leaving about an inch of string at the end.
- Wrap the Bundle: Continue wrapping the string around the bundle, working your way to the top. Keep the wraps tight, but not so tight that it crushes the stems. Then, wind your way back down, crisscrossing the string.
- Secure the End: When you get back to the bottom where you started, cut the string and tie it off to the inch of string you tied off at the beginning.
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I CLEANSE MY SPACE?
The frequency of cleansing depends on personal preference and the energy of your environment. Some people cleanse their space weekly, while others do it monthly or during significant life events.
CAN I USE OTHER HERBS WITH MUGWORT?
Yes, you can combine mugwort with other herbs such as lavender, or rosemary to enhance the cleansing properties and add a pleasant fragrance.
IS MUGWORT SAFE TO USE?
Mugwort is generally safe for most people, but it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, especially those with allergies to other plants in the Asteraceae family. Always use in a well-ventilated area and avoid direct inhalation of smoke.
WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH THE ASHES?
The ashes from burning mugwort can be scattered outside, buried, or disposed of in a respectful manner. Some people prefer to keep the ashes for future rituals or to return them to the earth.
CONCLUSION
Making your own mugwort cleansing sticks is a rewarding and straightforward process that allows you to harness the protective and purifying properties of this powerful herb. By understanding the importance of proper terminology and respectful practices, you can effectively cleanse your space and promote a positive, harmonious environment. Happy cleansing!