We recently discussed the plant Centella asiatica and the amazing benefits it has for your skin. But today, we’re discussing a different plant that also has great skin benefits that you might have seen in K- beauty: mugwort! In fact, the Moksha Dear Mugwort Face Mask was included in our Sooni Mask Pouch, Sooni Mini Pouch and Sooni Pouch!

credit: smileherb

Mugwort is a perennial herb that has been around for centuries. It has a variety of species within its genus Artemisia. In Korea, mugwort is called sook (쑥) and is commonly seen in culinary recipes such as soups, rice cakes, teas and more. For so long, it’s been believed that the plant has healing properties, being used as herbal medicine for centuries in many parts of the world. Particularly in Asian countries, it’s commonly used to help relieve menstrual cramps or regular menstruation. It’s also used in Asian acupuncture in a process called moxibustion; the plan is dried and rolled into circular sticks called moxa, which is then ignited and burned close to the acupuncture point. It’s believed that this processed will help with increase blood circulation to the pelvic area to help with menstrual pain. 

While it has a long history as a medicinal herb, its use in skincare is relatively new so in-depth research and studies are ongoing. But it’s becoming quite popular in skin care, particularly in K-beauty lately. So let’s discuss why!

• Fights inflammation 
  Mugwort has great anti-inflammatory properties that can fight irritated and inflamed skin by targeting inflamed tissues. Skin care products with mugwort are great for soothing the irritated skin.
• Vitamin C Content
  Mugwort is also rich in vitamin C, which we know has so many benefits on its own such as boosting collagen production.
• Antioxidants
  If you’re familiar with skin care, you know we’re always talking about antioxidants…they’re so important! Mugwort has antioxidants which fights damage from UV rays.
• Vitamin E content
  Mugwort also contain vitamin E (yay!). Vitamin E is also going to fight the free radicals that cause damage to the skin, strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture to prevent dry skin.
• Anti-bacterial
  It’s believed that mugwort has anti-bacterial properties that prevents the spread of bacteria such as E. coli, Staphococcus aureus, and more.

With all these great benefits, we believe that mugwort is going to be around in skin care for a long time! Have you used the May Sooni Pouch Mugwort Mask or any products incorporating mugwort? Let us know in the comments about your experience!