What is motherwort?
Also called lion’s tail, motherwort is an upright, prickly bush with dark green leaves and furry purple or pink flowers (1). It’s native to Asia and Southeastern Europe but can now be found worldwide. In the United States, it’s considered an invasive species (2).
Where does motherwort grow in the US?
Motherwort can be found in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8. It grows almost anywhere, from woodlands and fields to riverbanks and roadsides. The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles.
How do you grow motherwort?
Another easy way to contain motherwort is by growing it in containers. Because of motherwort’s rapid growth and spreading habits, this plant can quickly get out of hand. Motherwort is considered invasive in the United States 1. If you would like to grow this herbaceous perennial, be sure you have measures in place to prevent unwanted spread.
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Where does motherwort grow?
Motherwort herb growing commonly occurs in neglected gardens, open woods, floodplains, riverbanks, meadows, fields, riverbanks, and along roadsides; really just about anywhere.
Does motherwort grow wild?
A spiky, weedy, clumping perennial herb that can reach up to five feet tall, motherwort is often found growing wild, especially in wet areas such as floodplains and riverbanks, or along streams. It is also a common weed along roadsides and in neglected gardens.
Is motherwort native to North America?
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)is a perennial, herbaceous plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It was introduced from Europe, with original populations stemming from Asia. It was brought to North America as a medicinal herb, used particularly for ailments of the heart and nervous system.
Who should not take motherwort?
Among those who should not take motherwort: People with bleeding disorders or those taking blood thinners such as Coumadin (warfarin), due to motherwort's anti-platelet activity. Those taking sedative medications. People planning to undergo surgery (avoid taking it within two weeks of your procedure)
Is motherwort safe to eat?
Motherwort is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth appropriately. Side effects include diarrhea, stomach irritation, uterine bleeding, sleepiness, and allergic reactions. Contact with the skin can cause rashes and increased sensitivity to the sun.
Can motherwort be eaten raw?
it can also help ease heart conditions, anxiety, depression and digestive issues. You can also eat them raw if you want but their bitterness can be overwhelming so I usually don't recommend this method unless you're desperate!
How does motherwort make you feel?
Motherwort might cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Some medications, called sedatives, can also cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Taking motherwort with sedative medications might cause breathing problems and/or too much sleepiness.
Is motherwort the same as mugwort?
Motherwort and mugwort plants are similar in appearance, but distinct characteristics set them apart. Mugwort leaves are white-woolly and almost silvery on the underside, while motherwort leaves may be slightly hairy and will be the same color on top and bottom.
Does motherwort contain estrogen?
Motherwort is an herb with weak estrogen-like actions similar to soy. In one trial, a formula containing licorice, burdock, dong quai, wild yam, and motherwort reduced menopause symptoms.
Can you take motherwort daily?
A dose of tincture 10 – 20 drops taken several times a day can lower blood pressure and strengthen electrical activity in the heart. Daily use may help new blood vessels grow to the heart. Susun Weed also recommends motherwort as a pain reliever and useful in your herbal first-aid kit.
How does motherwort affect the heart?
May lower heart rate and blood pressure One traditional use of motherwort is to help reduce rapid or irregular heart rate caused by stress or anxiety. In test-tube and animal studies, motherwort extract exhibited antiarrhythmic effects, suggesting that it could help lower elevated heart rate.
Is motherwort good for hair growth?
Motherwort aqueous infusion or alcoholic tincture are often added to creams and masks for sensitive skin. Moreover, the plant is very beneficial for hair health and can be used as part of masks and hair-conditioners. It improves hair growth, strengthens it and reduces hair fat.
Is motherwort an invasive species?
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is considered an invasive plant in the state of Wisconsin. It's a perennial herb in the mint family. Motherwort likes shade to partial sun and moist, acidic soil. It grows straight, and the type I'm familiar with is about 20 inches tall and compact.
Is motherwort herb invasive?
Because of its vigorous growing habits, motherwort can quickly overtake a garden. It is considered invasive in the United States.
How do you forage motherwort?
Motherwort should be harvested when in full bloom. Harvest the aerial parts—leaves, flowers, and stems can be used. I use the stem only on the upper portions of the plant, where it is fairly small and supple. On the lower portions, I remove the leaves to use in tea or tinctures, and discard the stem outdoors.
Are mugwort and motherwort the same?
Motherwort and mugwort plants are similar in appearance, but distinct characteristics set them apart. Mugwort leaves are white-woolly and almost silvery on the underside, while motherwort leaves may be slightly hairy and will be the same color on top and bottom.
Where does Motherwort grow?
Motherwort ( Leonurus cardiaca ), commonly known as lion’s tail, belongs to the mint family. This plant normally grows 4 to 5 feet on areas where soils have been previously used for growing other plants or on those artificially placed-over soils. It also grows wildly on riverbanks and floodplains. This plant prefers partial exposure to sunlight and moist and fertile soil. In some countries, this plant is propagated for its medicinal properties and uses.
What is the shape of motherwort?
It stands on an erect or straight orientation, crowned with dark green and a sort of compound leaves, resembling that of a maple leaf. The leaves grow opposite from one another on the stem.
What Parts Of The Plant Are Used In Remedies?
The whole herb can be used for all the discussed health problems. This means that its roots, upper or young stems, flowers, and leaves are used for the purpose of treating disorders and ailments. Normally, the top third of the herb is cut for use while it is still soft and supple. Anyone can opt to choose the method of infusion, decoction, or tincture to extract the juice containing the precious antioxidant substances and compounds from the herb.
What is motherwort used for?
Motherwort is a popular choice for treating a variety of women’s disorders relating to the reproductive system. Pregnant women can use this to help relieve labor pain, which is usually sustained during premature delivery. It is also used to soothe post-natal depression among women. When used before a woman’s menstruation schedule, it relieves menstrual cramps and helps achieve a more regular menstruation schedule.
How many times a day can you drink motherwort tea?
You may drink motherwort tea up to three times a day.
How does Motherwort propagate?
Motherwort propagates easily by seeding or through its rhizomes.
How many lobes does a motherwort have?
While other mint plant families may have unlobed margins and rounded tips, Motherwort leaves normally have 3 to 5 lobes. It somehow resembles 5 separate normal leaves fused together, each with pointed tips.
Where is Motherwort native to?
Native to central Eurasia, the hearty herb has now spread to North America, both as a garden plant and as an invasive weed. In herbal medicine, its leaves and flowers are used. Motherwort is also available in dietary supplement form.
What Is Motherwort Used For?
In addition to being a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, motherwort contains leonurine, a compound found to promote the relaxation of blood vessel walls in preliminar y studies. 2 Interestingly, it's this same substance that's been shown to encourage uterine contractions, lending support to its traditional use in childbirth and as a promoter of menstruation.
Why is motherwort called lion's tail?
(It's also known as lion's tail because it's thought to resemble the tip of a lion's tail.)
Does motherwort taste good?
Unlike many other herbs in the mint family, motherwort doesn't smell or taste good and is classified as a bitter herb. Still, some consume it in tea form, sometimes with a flavoring like sugar, honey, or lemon to disguise its unpleasant taste. 7
Does motherwort help with contractions?
In addition to being a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, motherwort contains leonurine, a compound found to promote the relaxation of blood vessel walls in preliminary studies. 2 Interestingly, it's this same substance that's been shown to encourage uterine contractions, lending support to its traditional use in childbirth and as a promoter of menstruation.
Is Motherwort good for menstrual cycles?
Possible Side Effects. Contraindications. Motherwort ( Leonurus cardiaca) is an herb in the mint family. It is used as a remedy for female reproductive disorders . For instance, it's purported to help regulate menstrual periods, especially when someone is anxious or tense.
Is motherwort safe for pregnant women?
Keep in mind, too, that dietary supplements haven't been tested for safety ...
What is motherwort herb?
Motherwort is a perennial plant that is best known as an herb that helps the heart and women’s disorders. Early Greeks gave pregnant women motherwort who suffered anxiety. The Latin name is derived from the Greek: leon for lion and ouros for tail. The name cardiac comes from kardiaca, meaning heart.
How big does Motherwort grow?
Motherwort can grow up to heights of almost 2 metres and can be as wide as 1 metre.
What color are motherwort leaves?
The leaves are dark green on the top and pale below. They are deeply lobed into three and are somewhat oak-shaped. Some people may have a slight reaction (itching) to the motherwort leaf if they break it up.
When do motherworts bloom?
They bloom late June to early September.
What Is Motherwort Used For?from verywellhealth.com
In addition to being a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, motherwort contains leonurine, a compound found to promote the relaxation of blood vessel walls in preliminar y studies. 2 Interestingly, it's this same substance that's been shown to encourage uterine contractions, lending support to its traditional use in childbirth and as a promoter of menstruation.
Why is motherwort called lion's tail?from verywellhealth.com
(It's also known as lion's tail because it's thought to resemble the tip of a lion's tail.)
Does motherwort help with postpartum bleeding?from healthline.com
May reduce postpartum blood loss. Early research suggests that treatment with motherwort and oxytocin may significantly reduce the risk of postpartum blood loss, compared with oxytocin alone ( 17 ).
Does motherwort help with hyperthyroidism?from healthline.com
Despite limited research, some European countries have approved the use of motherwort to support heart health and help treat hyperthyroidism, stress, and anxiety ( 10 ).
Does motherwort affect heart rate?from healthline.com
Given that motherwort has the potential to affect heart rate and rhythm, those on heart rate medications, such as beta-blockers, and people with low blood pressure should consult their healthcare provider before trying this supplement ( 19 ).
Can you take motherwort with other medications?from verywellhealth.com
As motherwort affects heart rate and rhythm, it should not be taken with other medication without discussing it first with your doctor. Among those who should not take motherwort: People with bleeding disorders or those taking blood thinners such as Coumadin (warfarin), due to motherwort's anti-platelet activity.
Does motherwort taste good?from verywellhealth.com
Unlike many other herbs in the mint family, motherwort doesn't smell or taste good and is classified as a bitter herb. Still, some consume it in tea form, sometimes with a flavoring like sugar, honey, or lemon to disguise its unpleasant taste. 7
Where is Motherwort from?
Leonurus cardiaca. Above: Motherwort in Oak Savanna in Madison, Wisconsin. (6/27/19). Motherwort is originally from Central Asia and southeastern Europe, and is now found worldwide, spread largely due to its use as a herbal remedy. Motherwort has a squarish stem which is clad in short hairs and is often purplish.
What color are motherwort flowers?
The calyx of each flower is bell-shaped and has five lobes. The flowers are pink to lavender in color.
What is the name of the flower with white hairs?
The upper flower lip extends out and its outer surface densely covered in long, white hairs. Other names include: throw-wort and lion's tail. Leonurus: from the Greek leon for "lion" and oura, "a tail.". Above: Motherwort in Oak Savanna in Madison, Wisconsin on June 27, 2019.
Where does motherwort grow?from gardeningknowhow.com
Image by Hana Richterova. Originating from Eurasia, motherwort herb ( Leonurus cardiaca) is now naturalized throughout southern Canada and east of the Rocky Mountains and more commonly deemed a weed with a rapid spreading habitat. Motherwort herb growing commonly occurs in neglected gardens, open woods, floodplains, riverbanks, meadows, fields, ...
What Is Motherwort Used For?from healthline.com
In addition to being a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, motherwort contains leonurine, a compound found to promote the relaxation of blood vessel walls in preliminar y studies. 2 Interestingly, it's this same substance that's been shown to encourage uterine contractions, lending support to its traditional use in childbirth and as a promoter of menstruation.
Why is motherwort called lion's tail?from verywellhealth.com
(It's also known as lion's tail because it's thought to resemble the tip of a lion's tail.)
How much Leonurus is safe?from restorativemedicine.org
Leonurus capsules will usually contain between 200 and 500 mg of dried herb, and this herb is generally considered safe at high doses up to 2 g/day.
How tall is Motherwort?from gardeningknowhow.com
Motherwort herb growing in the wild appears as a sturdy stemmed perennial of up to 5 feet (1.5 m.) tall with pink to pale purple clustered flowers of six to 15 axils, or spaces between the leaf and stem, and prickly sepals. Like other members of the mint family, the foliage, when crushed, has a distinct odor.
What are the compounds in Leonurus?from restorativemedicine.org
In addition to these ubiquitous compounds, Leonurus contains iridoid glycosides such as leonuride and the alkaloids leonurine, leonurinine, and stachydrine, 1,2,3,4,5 all credited with medicinal effects.
Can motherwort grow in a garden?from gardeningknowhow.com
Once the herb has laid roots, continued growth of the motherwort colony is guaranteed, and then some! Last warning, motherwort herb is a prolific and unbridled easy-to-grow plant with a propensity to take over the garden – so gardener beware.
Where do motherworts appear?
They appear at the leaf axils. They are the labiate flowers of the mint family but have a rather furry appearance so that at first glance, motherwort looks like a tall plant with bits of fluff tucked into its leaf axils.
What is Motherwort associated with?
Motherwort is associated with Frigga (Freya, Frige, Fricka, Frija) and Ogun. It corresponds to the energy of Leo , Venus, and the element of Water.
Why is Motherwort called Motherwort?
Motherwort was first used by the Greeks to soothe the anxiety of pregnant women. This use continued and spread and gave the herb its common name. The botanical name, Leonurus cardiaca also comes from the greek. Leon =lion, ouros =tail and kardiaca refers to the heart.
What does motherwort mean?
Its association with longevity was widespread throughout Europe and Asia. Traditional herbals suggest motherwort for “hysterical” conditions and “melancholy”. In the Victorian language of flowers, motherwort symbolized concealed love.
Why do we drink motherwort tea?
Serve motherwort tea in moments of family crisis. It helps sooth the physical symptoms of stress (and panic) so that you can focus on solving the problem.
How hot does it have to be for Motherwort to germinate?
Motherwort likes a sunny spot, but will tolerate some shade and will germinate once temperatures reach 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Is motherwort good for pregnant women?
It is also used for counter-magic and associated with immortality and spiritual healing. It is a protective herb, especially in spells designed to protect pregnant women and their unborn children. Some recommend smoking motherwort to promote astral projection, but smoking too much can cause respiratory arrest.
What Is Motherwort?
A spiky, weedy, clumping perennial herb that can reach up to five feet tall, motherwort is often found growing wild, especially in wet areas such as floodplains and riverbanks, or along streams. It is also a common weed along roadsides and in neglected gardens.
What does the name Motherwort mean?
The uppermost leaves are oblong with one pair of coarse teeth. Motherwort’s botanical name Leonurus cardiaca means “lionhearted. ”. This may be related to the plant’s reputation for bringing strength during times of emotional stress. The flower spike is also thought to bear resemblance to a lion’s tail.
What is the flower spike of Motherwort?
The flower spike is also thought to bear resemblance to a lion’s tail. Motherwort has long been used in herbal medicine and as an ornamental plant , and it attracts bees and other pollinators to the garden.
How to get rid of mites on leaves?
You can treat leaves with a solution of soapy water to get rid of the mites. Just add 2 tablespoons of a mild biodegradable liquid soap to a gallon of water, and spray off the undersides of the leaves to remove the mites.
Where did the herb sage originate?
Cultivation and History. This herb likely originated in central and northern Asia, spreading to western Europe by sometime around the 17th century. Believed to have been brought to North America in the 19th century by colonists, and has now naturalized widely throughout the continent.
Can Motherwort be grown from seed?
Motherwort is easy to grow from seed or transplants, or by division. This hardy perennial can grow in many different conditions, but for best results, look for a spot with well draining soil, and amend beds or containers with compost before planting.
What Is Motherwort Used for?
Selection & Preparation
- Unlike many other herbs in the mint family, motherwort doesn't smell or taste good and is classified as a bitter herb. Still, some consume it in tea form, sometimes with a flavoring like sugar, honey, or lemon to disguise its unpleasant taste.7 A tea can be prepared by steeping one to two teaspoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes. Three cups of the …
Possible Side Effects
- Motherwort may trigger a number of side effects, such as:7 1. Diarrhea 2. Drowsiness 3. Sedation 4. Altered heart rate and rhythm 5. Low blood pressure 6. Uterine bleeding and contractions In addition, when applied to the skin, motherwort may increase sensitivity to the sun and boost the likelihood of sun damage.
Contraindications
- As motherwort affects heart rate and rhythm, it should not be taken with other medication without discussing it first with your healthcare provider. Among those who should not take motherwort: 1. People with bleeding disorders or those taking blood thinners such as Coumadin (warfarin), due to motherwort's anti-platelet activity 2. Those taking sedative medications 3. People planning to …