Ai Ye
Artemisia princeps
Synonyms: Artemisia parvula, Artemisia indica var. maximowiczii, Artemisia vulgaris var. maximowiczii
☯ TCM Properties
Warms the channels, warms the womb, stops bleeding and calms the fetus; Disperses Cold and alleviates pain; Eliminates Dampness and stops itching; Resolves Phlegm and stops cough and asthma
Western Herbalism Properties
Gallery
Botanical Description
Artemisia princeps is a robust perennial herb in the daisy family (Asteraceae), growing 60-120 cm tall from creeping rhizomes. Stems are erect, branched, angular, and covered in white woolly hairs. Leaves are alternate, deeply pinnately lobed with 3-5 lobes per side, dark green above and densely white-woolly beneath. The characteristic gray-white underside is a key identifying feature. Numerous tiny, tubular, brownish flower heads are borne in dense racemose panicles. The plant has a characteristic strong, spicy-aromatic fragrance due to volatile oils including cineole and camphor.
Roadsides, hillsides, riverbanks, fields, and disturbed habitats; native to East Asia (China, Japan, Korea), widely distributed throughout eastern Asia and cultivated in many regions.
Artemisia princeps is common throughout East Asia and is widely cultivated both as a food herb and medicinal plant. It is considered a common weed in many areas. No conservation concerns.
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Ai Ye (mugwort leaf, artemisia leaf) is a warm, bitter-pungent herb with a strong warming action on the lower burner and Chong and Ren vessels. It is used for cold-type menstrual disorders including painful menstruation, excessive menstrual bleeding from deficiency cold, and threatened miscarriage from uterine cold. Externally, it is the primary substance used in moxibustion therapy — burned over acupuncture points to warm channels and dispel cold. It also treats itching skin conditions when used as a wash.
Chemistry & External Identifiers
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.