Pictured above: Mugwort I gathered and dried.
Reading up a bit on mugwort today, since I gathered and dried some yesterday. I’ll probably use it for tea or smoke it before divination.
(Smoking is bad for you, don’t do it. Or at least do it rarely. You only have one set of lungs, take care of them.)
I rinsed them, let them air-dry for a couple hours on a paper towel, then moved the paper towel onto a baking pan and popped them in the oven at 170 F for an hour and a half. I left them on the counter overnight to cool and now they are being stored in a spice container.
A few important things to mention: Mugwort is not for pregnant people, as it could possibly induce a miscarriage. Do not use mugwort if you have an allergy to ragweed, birch, celery, or carrots. Always talk to your doctor before adding herbal medicine to your daily routine.
Mugwort has historically been used in magic to induce a trance-like state. It's not a hallucinogen, but it can create a relaxed mindset that can aid in visualization and vivid dreams.
As I said, I'll use it at some point for divinatory purposes. I'll probably wait until a Monday with a new moon to break out my tarot cards. That just feels right.
Stay safe!
- me