Beifuß (Artemisia vulgaris)

Mugwort is one of the oldest ritual plants in Europe. The practice of smudging with mugwort dates back to Celtic-Germanic times. It was believed that mugwort could drive away evil spirits. At the summer solstice, the herb is thrown into the fire to get rid of all evil. Since the plant was sacred to the ancient Germans, it was demonized as witch's herb in Christian times. Today, this powerful herb is used for protection and to enhance clairvoyance when smudging.