Can I eat mugwort leaves during my menstrual period?

Women can generally consume mugwort leaves during their menstrual period, but should pay attention to moderate intake.

Mugwort leaves have the effects of warming the meridians to dispel cold and promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis. However, due to their warm nature, they may affect individuals differently depending on their body constitution. For women with a cold-deficient constitution, who often experience cold hands and feet and dysmenorrhea, moderate consumption of mugwort leaves during menstruation can help alleviate menstrual pain, promote blood circulation, and warm the uterus. However, excessive intake should be avoided to prevent internal heat accumulation.

Mugwort leaves can be used to treat symptoms such as cold pain in the lower abdomen, cold limbs, and dysmenorrhea caused by cold uterus. For women suffering from dysmenorrhea due to cold uterus, moderate use of mugwort leaves can help relieve pain. Its blood-activating and stasis-resolving effects aid in smooth menstrual blood discharge, reducing blood stagnation and the occurrence of dysmenorrhea. Although mugwort leaves offer certain benefits during menstruation, excessive consumption may cause adverse reactions such as heatiness. Therefore, it is recommended that women consume mugwort leaves in moderation during their menstrual period.

During menstruation, women should also ensure adequate iron intake, control caffeine consumption, increase protein intake, and reduce consumption of high-salt foods to maintain overall health.