Ai Ye (Mugwort Leaf) – Artemisia argyi
Artemisia argyi; Folium Artemisiae Argyi
Ai Ye (Artemisia argyi), commonly known as Mugwort Leaf, is a traditional herb with a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Bitter, acrid, and warm in nature, it has been valued within classical herbal traditions for its role in supporting Spleen, Liver, and Kidney channel balance according to traditional principles. Ai Ye is also well known among acupuncturists for its use in moxibustion.
In classical Chinese herbal medicine, Ai Ye is commonly included in formulas designed to support channel warming and balance according to traditional TCM frameworks.
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we offer carefully sourced premium Ai Ye bulk herb selected for quality, potency, and traditional authenticity.
Our herbs are ideal for:
• Herbal practitioners
• Acupuncturists and moxibustion practice
• Custom herbal formulas
• Decoctions and teas
Traditional Uses of Ai Ye in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ai Ye is classified as a warming herb that enters the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney channels. Traditionally, it is used to:
• Warm the channels and support Spleen, Liver, and Kidney balance in classical herbal theory
• Support the body's response to cold and damp patterns according to traditional principles
• Regulate and harmonize according to classical TCM frameworks
• Serve as the primary herb in moxibustion practice
In classical herbal theory, Ai Ye enters the Spleen, Liver, and Kidney channels, where it is traditionally used to restore balance when cold and deficiency patterns arise.
Herbs Often Used With Ai Ye
Ai Ye is frequently combined with other herbs in traditional Chinese formulas, including:
• E Jiao (Donkey Hide Gelatin) – nourishes blood and yin in classical contexts
• Dang Gui (Chinese Angelica Root) – nourishes and invigorates blood in traditional theory
• Bai Shao (White Peony) – nourishes Liver blood and supports yin
• Gan Cao (Licorice Root) – harmonizes formulas and supports the Spleen channel
These herbs are commonly used together to create balanced formulas supporting channel warming and blood nourishment according to classical principles.
Ai Ye and Moxibustion
Ai Ye is the primary herb used in moxibustion, a classical TCM practice in which dried mugwort is burned near or on acupuncture points to warm channels and support qi flow according to traditional principles. Moxa made from Ai Ye has been used in East Asian medicine for thousands of years and remains a foundational tool in acupuncture practice today.
Premium Quality Ai Ye
High-quality Ai Ye should display several identifiable characteristics:
• Dark green, intact whole or cut leaves
• Strong, characteristic pungent aroma
• Free of impurities and debris
• Properly dried with no signs of moisture damage
At Plum Dragon Herbs, our herbs are carefully selected and properly processed to preserve their traditional qualities.
Origin and Harvesting
Artemisia argyi is native to China and other parts of East Asia. It is a perennial herb that grows up to approximately one meter tall, with narrow green leaves and small yellow-white flowers. It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained, moist soil. The medicinal portion used in Chinese herbal medicine is the dried leaf.
Traditionally:
• Leaves are harvested before flowering in late spring to early summer
• Dried and cut or processed for herbal use
• Prepared for use in decoctions, formulas, or moxibustion
How Ai Ye is Traditionally Used
Ai Ye may be prepared in several traditional ways.
Decoction
Simmer 3–9 grams in approximately 500 ml of water for 30 minutes.
Tea
Steep 3–6 grams of dried leaf in hot water for 10–15 minutes.
Moxibustion
Dried Ai Ye is processed into moxa for use in traditional moxibustion practice under the guidance of a qualified acupuncturist or TCM practitioner.
Culinary Use
Ai Ye is used in traditional East Asian cuisine, including soups, broths, and rice cakes, where it contributes a distinctive bitter and aromatic flavor.
Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for dosage and individualized guidance.
Safety and Precautions
This herb should be used appropriately according to individual constitution.
Use caution if:
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Taking medications, including blood thinners or blood pressure medications
• Having a known sensitivity to plants in the Asteraceae family, which includes chamomile and ragweed
• Using without professional guidance
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products.
Additional Information
Botanical Name: Artemisia argyi
Common Names: Ai Ye, Mugwort Leaf, Folium Artemisiae Argyi
Flavor: Bitter, acrid
Temperature: Warm
Channels Entered:
• Spleen
• Liver
• Kidney
Contraindications:
Use with caution during pregnancy. Avoid in cases of known sensitivity to the Asteraceae plant family. Traditional use should be guided by constitution and formula context.
Why Choose Plum Dragon Herbs?
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we specialize in authentic Chinese medicinal herbs sourced for quality and potency. Our herbs are selected and processed according to traditional standards to support the needs of practitioners, herbalists, acupuncturists, martial artists, and enthusiasts alike.
Experience the tradition and quality of authentic Chinese herbs from Plum Dragon Herbs.
Important Disclaimer
The information provided on this page reflects traditional herbal knowledge and historical use within Chinese medicine and is intended for educational purposes only.
Plum Dragon Herbs products are raw botanical materials and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
