How to Make Mugwort Tea: A Simple Guide for Beginners
Mugwort tea is a unique herbal infusion known for its bitter taste and numerous health benefits.
This herbal tea has been used for centuries in various traditional medicine systems, like traditional Chinese medicine, and is known for its calming effect, digestive benefits, and antioxidant properties.
If you’re new to mugwort tea, you may wonder how to make it.
Making mugwort tea is simple and follows many of the same instructions as other popular teas. You only need dried loose leaves, quality water, and a tea kettle. You can always add a sweetener if you prefer to mask the bitterness.
This blog will share some preparation tips for brewing mugwort tea, including the ideal water temperature, brewing time, and quantity. We’ll also show you how to enhance its taste and walk through its potential health benefits.
What is Mugwort Tea?
Mugwort tea is an herbal infusion made from the leaves of the mugwort plant, also known as Artemisia vulgaris. This ragweed grows throughout Asia, Europe, and North America.
It has a long history of medicinal and culinary uses; it’s valued for its potential health benefits.
Mugwort tea has a spring-like fragrance and is bitter with a hint of subtle sweetness. Simply steep dried or fresh leaves in hot water to make this herbal blend.
What Does Mugwort Tea Taste Like
Mugwort tea has a unique flavor that’s bitter with a hint of sweetness. You’ll notice the earthy and somewhat herbaceous taste with each sip. This distinct flavor profile is from the mugwort plant’s natural characteristics.
The aroma of mugwort tea is fresh, like the scent of newly grown grass in the spring. Its fragrance is somewhat strong because of its herbal essence. The combination of taste and aroma is unique, but it’s not for everyone’s palate.
Adjusting the steeping time or adding sweeteners can help tailor the taste of mugwort tea to suit your preferences. Some people find it too bitter, so you can add honey or other sweeteners.
Preparation Tips For Brewing Mugwort Tea
Here are several tips you should be aware of when brewing mugwort tea. Brewing a tasty cup requires the right method, water temperature, and amount.
Proper Brewing Method
To make mugwort tea, you can use dried or fresh leaves. For dried leaves, use a tea bag or loose leaf tea infuser. Place the desired amount of dried leaves in your infuser or tea bag.
Using fresh leaves is very rare. If you prefer using fresh mugwort leaves, rinse them thoroughly, then roughly chop them to release their aroma.
Ideal Water Temperature
The right water temperature for brewing mugwort tea is around 190°F (88°C). Let the boiled water cool for 30 seconds before pouring it over the leaves or tea bag to achieve this.
| Water Temperature | Brewing Time |
| 190°F (88°C) | 5-7 minutes |
Quantity of Tea
The amount of mugwort you’ll need depends on your taste preference and the desired strength of the tea. Generally, use 1 tablespoon of dried mugwort or 2-3 tablespoons of fresh, chopped leaves per 8-ounce cup of water. Adjust the amount according to your taste.
- 1 tablespoon dried mugwort leaves: 8-ounce cup of water
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh mugwort leaves: 8-ounce cup of water
Recipe: How to Make Mugwort Tea
Here’s a simple recipe to make mugwort tea that you can follow. Remember that mugwort tea can be bitter if you don’t brew it properly, so follow the instructions below.
Ingredients and Supplies
- 1-2 teaspoons of dried mugwort leaves or 1 tea bag
- A teapot or a pot with a lid
- A strainer or a tea infuser
- 1 Cup of hot water
- A cup or a mug
Instructions
- Gather your mugwort leaves: One tablespoon of dried leaves or teabag for a standard serving.
- Prepare the teapot or mug: Place the mugwort leaves into the teapot or mug. This will ensure the steeping process to occur properly.
- Heat the water: Bring water to a boil, then cool it down slightly to avoid burning the mugwort leaves. The ideal temperature for steeping mugwort tea is around 190°F (88°C).
- Pour hot water over the mugwort leaves: Carefully pour it over the leaves in the teapot or pot, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Steep the tea: Allow the leaves to steep for about 4-5 minutes. This will give the leaves time to release their flavors and beneficial compounds into the hot water.
Strain and serve: After steeping, remove the leaves using a strainer or a tea infuser. Pour the tea into a cup or a mug, and enjoy!
How to Make Mugwort Tea with Fresh Leaves
Fresh mugwort leaves produce a stronger bitter taste with hints of grassy notes. Due to the flavor, most people enjoy mugwort tea with dried leaves.
But if you’re adventurous, you can certainly make mugwort tea with fresh leaves:
- Start by choosing fresh and healthy mugwort leaves, ensuring they have a pleasant fragrance. Rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Tear or chop the leaves into smaller pieces, releasing more of their natural aroma.
- Place 1-2 tablespoons of the prepared leaves into a teapot or a heat-resistant mug.
- Boil water in a kettle and, once it hits 190°F (88°C), pour it over the mugwort leaves.
- Allow the infusion to steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on your desired intensity.
- After the steeping time, strain the tea into a cup and enjoy.
For added flavor, you may choose to add honey, lemon, or a sweetener of your choice.
Recipe: How To Make Iced Mugwort Tea
For a cooling version, try it on ice! Here’s a simple recipe to make iced mugwort tea.
- Prepare hot mugwort tea as normal.
- In a teapot, combine 1 tablespoon of dried mugwort with 2 cups of hot water. Steep for 5 to 10 minutes, depending on your desired strength.
- Once the tea has steeped, strain it into a heat-proof container. Place it in the refrigerator to cool for at least an hour.
For a steeping brewing method: Add 1 tablespoon of dried mugwort to a container with 2 cups of cold water. Cover and let the tea steep in cold water for 8 to 12 hours.
When ready to serve, pour the cooled or cold-brewed tea over ice, and enjoy!
How to Make Mugwort Tea Taste Good
Mugwort tea might have a somewhat bitter taste. To improve its flavor, try adding a sweetener like honey or sugar. A squeeze of lemon can also brighten the taste while adding a hint of citrus.
Feel free to experiment with spices such as cinnamon to create a warmer, more comforting feel.
Adding other herbs can also enhance the flavor. Consider blending it with milder, aromatic herbs such as peppermint, mint, camomile, or even white tea. This not only enriches the flavor but offers additional health benefits as well.
How to Make Mugwort Tea for Lucid Dreams
Many people drink mugwort tea because they believe it can induce lucid dreams. Mugwort is known as an oneirogen, a herb that enhances dream states.
To experience lucid dreams, begin with boiling water. Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried mugwort to a teapot or cup. Pour the boiling water over the mugwort and steep for 5-7 minutes.
Drinking it before bedtime may help enhance dream recall and induce lucid dreams. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and practicing good sleep hygiene for best results. Avoid caffeine and electronic devices close to bedtime to alleviate insomnia.
Health Benefits and Therapeutic Uses of Mugwort Tea
Mugwort tea offers several health benefits and has been used for centuries in various traditional medicines across Asia.
It has a calming effect, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Its soothing properties make it an excellent choice for relaxation and promoting better sleep. It also has a mild sedative effect that can help with insomnia.
It’s also beneficial for digestion. It can stimulate appetite, relieve digestive discomfort, and alleviate symptoms like bloating, constipation, and nausea.
It can help ease menstrual pain and discomfort, from reducing menstrual cramps to alleviating headaches caused by hormonal fluctuations.
Mugwort tea is rich in antioxidants that can help fight inflammation and promote overall health and well-being. Antioxidant properties help protect your body from the damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress, contributing positively to your general health.
Mugwort tea has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can fight infections and support immunity. The active compound, thujone, in mugwort is known for its antifungal properties and is believed to contribute to these beneficial effects.
Potential Risks and Side Effects Of Mugwort Tea
Mugwort tea has some potential risks and side effects. While it has numerous benefits, be aware of these potential side effects if you’ve had similar interactions with other herbal blends.
Allergic Reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to mugwort. They’ll get symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling. If you experience these symptoms after consuming mugwort tea, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women: Mugwort tea is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as it may cause uterine contractions. It’s best to consult your doctor first if you’re pregnant or nursing.
Interaction with Medications: Mugwort may interact with certain medications. If you take any medications, you must talk to your healthcare provider before consuming mugwort tea to ensure it’s safe.
Different Ways To Enjoy Mugwort
You can also use mugwort in a variety of dishes aside from tea. For a unique flavor, create a mugwort salad by adding chopped fresh mugwort leaves to your favorite salad ingredients.
Add mugwort leaves into soups for an earthy taste. Add dried mugwort leaves to chicken or vegetable broth to make a nutritious soup.
Try adding mugwort leaves to savory dishes. Finely chop the herb and mix it with other spices to make a seasoning blend for grilled meats or vegetables.
Don’t forget to try mugwort in sweets and desserts too. Mugwort is a common ingredient in Japanese and Korean desserts such as mochu. It gives a subtle yet interesting taste to sweet treats like mugwort-infused ice cream or a sponge cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proper steeping time for mugwort tea?
To make mugwort tea, steep the leaves for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors and beneficial compounds to infuse into the water, creating a flavorful and enjoyable drink. Use hot instead of boiling water to prevent the loss of essential oils.
What does drinking mugwort tea do?
Drinking mugwort tea has several potential health benefits, such as promoting relaxation, digestion, and menstrual health. It’s most notable for its sedative effect, which can improve sleep quality and anxiety.
Is it safe to make tea out of mugwort?
Yes, it’s generally safe to make tea out of mugwort. If you have allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family, exercise caution when trying mugwort tea.
What part of mugwort is used for tea?
The leaves and flowers of the mugwort plant are primarily used for making tea. To prepare the tea, you can use fresh or dried mugwort leaves. Store dried leaves in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavors and properties.
How much mugwort tea can I drink a day?
Consuming no more than two to three cups of mugwort tea daily is generally advised. Overconsumption could lead to side effects, such as diarrhea, vomiting, or allergic reactions. Start with a smaller amount and observe how your body reacts before increasing the quantity.
Is mugwort tea helpful for inducing lucid dreams?
Some anecdotal evidence suggests that drinking mugwort tea before bedtime may help induce lucid dreams or improve memory. This is due to the compound called thujone found in mugwort. However, scientific research on this topic is limited, and more studies are necessary to confirm these effects.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want to reduce stress and anxiety, improve digestion, or promote overall health and well-being, mugwort tea is a great choice. Following our preparation tips, you can easily brew a delicious and healthy tea that is perfect for any time of day.
