Mugwort

1. Wipe or rinse out mouth to remove any traces of pennyroyal oil.
2. Give a serving size of water to drink.
3. Rinse any exposed skin with lukewarm water and soap.
4. Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately for additional instructions.

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What is Mugwort? 

Mugwort is a plant that grows in Europe and Asia as well as the eastern United States and Canada. It grows up to 6 ft tall and has dark green leaves with white, yellow, or red flowers in summer. Some countries use dried leaves as a food spice, flavoring, or tea. Since the Middle Ages, folk medicine uses this plant as a remedy for menstrual problems, infection, childbirth, and gastrointestinal complaints. Concentrated products, such as essential oils and tinctures, can be potentially toxic. There is little evidence about the benefits and safety when taking Mugwort by mouth or applying on the skin. Talk with your Health Care Provider before using this substance as a medical treatment or to cause an abortion because it is unreliable and could be potentially dangerous.

Is Mugwort Essential Oil toxic?  

Mugwort essential oil contains irregular amounts of toxic compounds such as Thujone, Camphor, and Eucalyptol. These compounds can be toxic, and swallowing this essential oil could cause vomiting, confusion, respiratory distress, coma, and seizures.

What happens if you swallow the leaves?

Swallowing dried Mugwort leaves in small amounts as a food or beverage flavoring is not expected to cause symptoms. Intentionally ingesting these leaves in large amounts as a medication or essential oil may be dangerous.

There is no antidote for Mugwort poisoning. So, early detection and treatment are important. If you think someone has swallowed this plant or a product containing this substance, call the Missouri Poison Center right away at 1-800-222-1222.

Can Mugwort be used to cause abortion?

Mugwort and other related plants from the Artemisia family have been used in the past to start menstruation and cause the uterus to contract. It is NOT recommended to use this plant to cause an abortion. Natural products are frequently assumed to be safe, but Mugwort is unpredictable and can cause serious illness or death.