MOTHERWORT

Motherwort - Leonurus cardiaca

 It is used as a mild sedative for menstrual pain and cramping and helping to regulate the cycle. For older women, it is often used for menopausal conditions that result in hot flashes, mood changes and sleep problems. Even though the name references mothers, it is not to be used by pregnant women.

Secondly, the botanical name Leonurus cardiaca also says so much about this plant. Leonurus translates to lion, and cardiaca translates to useful for the heart. So together it means lion-hearted.

Motherwort strengthens the heart, especially when the heart is impacted due to tension, stress and anxiety. These can lead to hypertension and irregular heartbeat. If hypertension and irregular heartbeat are caused by some other underlying condition, then it is wise to consult an experienced practitioner.

Even when the heart is not involved, motherwort still makes a useful remedy for stress and anxiety. Often this can be brought about due to some fearful event. The use of motherwort for fear alludes to its lion-heartedness, bringing about courage to change. Even though motherwort seems like a women’s herb, it can definitely be used by men for this purpose as well.

When you put all of motherwort’s virtues together, you have the ultimate remedy for women experiencing hot flashes with nervous heart palpitations. This is why it is so well known as a menopausal remedy.

There are no known contraindications, side effects or drug interactions.

The herb and herbal tea are extremely bitter tasting and certainly not enjoyable as a tea. It is best to take as a tincture. Motherwort can commonly be found in the wild.

Directions:

Take 1/2 to 1 teaspoon up to twice a day.

Motherwort should not be given to children under age 2, do not take it if you are pregnant.