Argy Wormwood Leaf
艾叶 · Ài Yè
Warms your body and eases period pain naturally
Properties
WarmingWarming botanicalPungent, Bitter
What it does
Mugwort is traditionally used for period cramps, heavy bleeding, and cold belly pain. In TCM, many menstrual problems come from cold settling in your body and slowing your circulation. Mugwort warms your system and is traditionally used to stop abnormal bleeding. It's best known as the herb burned during moxibustion, a warming therapy where dried mugwort is held near the skin to relieve pain.
How to take it
Steep 3–5g of dried Mugwort leaves in hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink warm, ideally in the days before your period for cramp relief.
Try a premade mugwort tea bag first to see how your body responds
Safety
- Ài Yè is considered slightly toxic in TCM. Stick to recommended amounts
- Skip this one if you're pregnant. It strongly moves blood and can stimulate the uterus
- If using moxa sticks, keep the flame away from skin and stop if you feel burning
- Talk to your doctor before starting, especially if you take medication
Where it comes from
Every year during the Dragon Boat Festival, families across China hang bundles of fresh mugwort above their doors, a tradition going back over 2,000 years. Its most famous role is as moxa: the dried herb burned near the skin during moxibustion, recorded in texts from the Warring States period (475–221 BCE). Seven systematic reviews now study moxibustion for conditions from knee pain to breech presentation, making it one of TCM's most actively researched therapies.