Names: munmut, Mugwort, Artemisia douglasiana

Native American uses: munmut is a very important plant for the Nisenan people because it has so many uses. It was used as a lining in acorn granaries because it is a bug repellent. Earaches can be relieved by holding a warm poultice behind the affected ear. But one of the most special properties is the smoke. Crushing and burning the dried leaves creates an aromatic and cleansing smoke that is used to keep bad energy away. Many people put this plant under their pillows during sleep to help with dreams. It is an honor to receive the seeds of this plant as a gift.

Bird Uses: Mugwort seeds are eaten by seed eating birds including Song Sparrows, Spotted Towhees, Goldfinches, Red-winged Blackbirds, and Brown-head Cowbirds. Mugwort provides excellent cover in moist places. It’s a favorite nesting place for the Lazuli Bunting and other small birds. Sparrows use mugwort leaves in their nests to decrease the number of parasites in their nests their nests and have healthier chicks.