Healing Motherwort Benefits
Motherwort, or Leonurus cardiaca, is a potent herb that specifically benefits problems with the heart related to anxiety and nervousness. It has been used as a traditional remedy all over the world, from North America to Eastern Europe to parts of Asia. The dried flowers and leaves make a fragrant, bitter tea. The medicinal properties are also potent in tincture form. Motherwort benefits are due to the active phytochemicals of the plant:
- Glycosides, such as leonurin and leonuridine
- Alkaloids
- Volatile oil
- Tannins
- Flavonoids
- Phenolic acids
Its can act as a sedative and nervine herb, calming the nervous system and promoting sleep. It is an emmenagogue, helpful for common female problems such as menopausal symptoms and delayed menstruation. It is also a cardiac and a hepatic, nurturing both the heart and the liver.
The Mother Herb
Like many herbs, motherwort is named for its medicinal purpose. It has several specific actions which benefit mothers, and women in general. During pregnancy it can be used to treat false labor pains, and to bring about a sense of peace during labor because of its sedating qualities. As there is potential for stimulation of uterine contractions, don’t take this herb while pregnant unless specifically directed to by your doctor. For menstruation, it can stimulate a delayed cycle and be used for most menstrual disorders. It is also very beneficial for alleviating stress, tension and anxiety that is related to or worsening the symptoms of PMS and menopause.
Leonurus Cardiaca the Heart Tonic
The Latin name for this herb correlates with the plant’s beneficial properties for the heart. It is often used as a general heart tonic, especially where psychological distress and heart issues are related. For example, rapid heart beat and tension to the heart because of stress, phobias, and even anger benefit from motherwort. It also improves circulation and lowers blood pressure. People who frequently take this herb talk of its uplifting effect on the heart. As with any potent cardiac, it is important to talk to your doctor before self-prescribing this herb if you have any serious heart problems such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
Brewing Tea
To make a cup of motherwort tea, use one to two teaspoons of the dried herb. Infuse in one cup of boiling water for ten minutes. Drink daily as desired, but no more than three cups per day. The taste is extremely bitter, so it may take time to get used to. As the aroma and flavor is powerful, it is difficult to mask with other herbs. Blending with peppermint however does make a more enjoyable tea. Another option is to take the herbal tincture. One dose is a dropperful of the herbal tincture. Take directly, or add to a cup of juice, water, or tea.
The benefits of motherwort are very unique, and also wonderfully potent. While this herb can be beneficial for many people, it should be used with care. Talk to a doctor before use if pregnant, if you have existing heart conditions, or if you are on any type of medication.
References
Balch, Phyllis, CNC. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition.” (The Penguin Group, 2006).
Hoffmann, David. “The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies.” (Element Books, 1996).
“Motherwort.” (Ageless) https://www.ageless.co.za/herb-motherwort.htm
Photo Credit
photo by: Ilona Loser (CC/Wiki) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Leonurus\_cardiaca.jpg
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