Evidence supporting the use of: Western Mugwort
For the health condition: Cramps (menstrual)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Western Mugwort (Artemisia ludoviciana) has a long-standing history of traditional use among various Indigenous peoples in North America for addressing menstrual discomfort, including cramps. Traditionally, infusions, teas, or poultices made from the leaves of Western Mugwort have been used to ease menstrual pain and promote menstrual flow. Ethnobotanical records and oral histories document these uses, especially among tribes such as the Navajo, Lakota, and Ute. The plant was valued not only for its potential antispasmodic properties but also for its reputed ability to regulate menses and alleviate associated symptoms.

However, scientific validation for these uses is limited. While some related species of Artemisia have demonstrated antispasmodic or anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory studies, specific research on Artemisia ludoviciana for menstrual cramps is lacking. Thus, its use for menstrual cramps is primarily justified by tradition rather than by robust scientific evidence. The overall evidence rating is moderate (2/5), reflecting the strength of its historical use but the paucity of clinical or pharmacological studies supporting its efficacy for this specific indication.

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Products containing Western Mugwort

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