Motherwort
Leonurus cardiaca
PLANT NAME
Motherwort
COMMON NAMES
Lion's Tail, Throw-wort, Lion's Ear
BOTANICAL NAME
Leonurus cardiaca
IDENTIFICATION
A perennial herb in the mint family with a square stem. The leaves are deeply lobed (often three-lobed) and pale green. Small, hairy, pink to pale purple flowers grow in whorls around the leaf axils.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers).
CULINARY USES
Very bitter, so it is rarely used for culinary purposes, though it has been used to flavor certain traditional ales.
TRADITIONAL USES
Traditionally highly regarded as a calming herb for the nervous system and to support heart health (hence 'cardiaca'). It was frequently used by women to soothe menstrual cramps, support emotional balance during menopause, and ease tension.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Native to Central Asia and Southeastern Europe but naturalized widely. Prefers well-drained soil in sun to partial shade. The aerial parts are harvested while the plant is in bloom.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Always consult your doctor. Motherwort should not be used during pregnancy as it can stimulate uterine contractions. Use with caution if taking heart medications or blood thinners.