Maru (Maru (Maruta, Marubaka, Marun))
Maru, known botanically as Artemisia vulgaris, is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used for its effects on 'maruta' (vata). Classical texts describe it as an igniter of digestive fire and beneficial for various ailments related to vata imbalance.
Botanical name: Artemisia vulgaris. Also known as: Mugwort, Common Mugwort, Wild Wormwood, Felon Herb, St. John's Plant, Riverside Wormwood, Mugwort Wormwood, Chrysanthemum Weed, Cronewort, French Tobacco, Gypsy Tobacco, Mugweed, Wild Chrysanthemum, Common Artemisia.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Antiviral, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial
Dosage
General: It is typically recommended to consult a qualified herbal medicine practitioner for personalized advice. Traditional Use: Traditionally, 0.2 g to 2.4 g of dried aerial parts were used three times per day in various preparations. Tincture (1:5): 2-4 ml daily. Some sources suggest 1-3 ml as needed. A typical dose is around 20 drops (1 ml) per day. Tea Infusion: 0.5-2g of dried or fresh herb daily. To make mugwort tea, steep 1 teaspoon of dried mugwort in hot water for 1-2 minutes. Some sources suggest steeping 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves in boiled water for 5-10 minutes. Dosage may vary, and long-term use should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Mugwort is not recommended for children under 18 years old.
Classical attributes
- Rasa: Tikta (bitter), Katu (pungent)
- Virya: ["Ushna (hot)"]
- Vipaka: ["Katu (pungent)"]
Benefits
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Vatahara (alleviates Vata)
- Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)
Traditional uses
- Vata disorders
- Digestive issues
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: balancing
- pitta: increasing
Preparation methods
- Infusion/Tea: Dried or fresh leaves can be used to make tea. Pour hot water over the herb and allow it to steep.
- Tincture: Mugwort tincture is made by extracting the herb's properties in alcohol and water. This involves immersing the herb in an alcoholic solution for 4-6 weeks to dissolve the active ingredients.
- Dried Herb: The dried herb can be used in powder form or made into smudge sticks.
- Extracts/Essences: Mugwort extracts and essences offer a convenient alternative to herbal teas.
- Topical: Mugwort can be applied to the skin in lotions.
- Other: Mugwort can be used to create dream pillows, herbal vinegar, and herbal baths.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy: Avoid during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions and has a history of use as an abortifacient. High-dose mugwort is contraindicated during pregnancy and early postpartum.
- High Pitta Conditions: Avoid in conditions with high Pitta as it can increase acidity.
- Allergies: Common among those allergic to ragweed or other Asteraceae family members. Symptoms include sneezing, skin rash, or asthma flare-ups.
- Epilepsy or Seizure Disorders: High thujone content may be problematic; limit intake.
- Children & Elderly: Start with minimal doses (half adult dose) and watch for allergic reactions such as skin rash or respiratory issues.
- Excessive Intake: May cause nausea or dizziness due to its potent essential oils. Excessive thujone intake may trigger headaches, nausea, dizziness, and in severe cases, seizures (rare but reported historically).
- Breastfeeding: It tends to dry up secretions so avoid when breastfeeding.
- Mugwort pollen can aggravate allergic rhinitis and/or asthma, so be cautious using in large doses with these conditions.
Side effects
- Allergic Reactions
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Mugwort is likely unsafe during pregnancy as it may cause uterine contractions and miscarriage. Its use should be avoided during breastfeeding due to a lack of safety information.
- Neurotoxicity: High doses of thujone, a component of mugwort, may lead to neurotoxicity, causing seizures, dizziness, and irritability.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Excessive consumption may cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Other potential side effects: Respiratory and skin allergic responses.
Interactions
- Medications: Mugwort may interact with sedatives (like alcohol and benzodiazepines) and anticonvulsants.
- Allergies: Mugwort pollen can aggravate allergic rhinitis and/or asthma.
- Analgesics: Do not combine with antihistamines if the pain relief mechanism is narcotic.
Clinical evidence
Clinical use of Artemisia vulgaris primarily revolves around allergy testing and moxibustion. Research suggests potential antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities. However, clinical trials are limited.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Deepana (appetizer)
- Pachana (digestive)
- Vatahara (alleviates Vata)
- Kaphahara (alleviates Kapha)
Classical clinical indications
- Vata disorders
- Digestive issues