Motherwort (Leonurus cardiac) is a herb in the mint family. Other common names include throw-wort, lion’s ear, and lion’s tail.
A spiky, clumping perennial herb that can reach up to five feet tall,with dark green leaves and furry purple or pink flowers. Motherwort is often found growing wild, especially in wet areas such as floodplains and riverbanks, or along streams. It is a perennial plant that is best known as a herb that helps the heart and women’s disorders.
Motherwort Medicinal Benefits
It is primarily used as a tea or tincture for its potential medicinal properties.
- Motherwort is used for heart conditions, including heart failure, irregular heartbeat, fast heartbeat, and heart symptoms due to anxiety.
- It is also used for the absence of menstrual periods, intestinal gas (flatulence), and over-active thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
CAUTION: High quantities can cause nausea and taking motherwort may have an adverse interaction with other medications. Do not use motherwort during pregnancy.
Growing Motherwort
- It is necessary to cold stratify seeds prior to planting. To cold stratify seeds, soak for 12-24 hours and then put them in a plastic bag filled with sand and peat. Seal the bag and place it in the refrigerator for 10 days, checking regularly for moisture and spritzing lightly if the mix becomes dry.
- Once the Motherwort seeds have been stratified, they can be sown directly into the garden.
- Broadcast seeds in late spring and cover with a very thin 1/8-inch layer of soil.
- They should take about a week to sprout, and strong seedlings can be thinned to 2-3 feet apart.
- You can also choose to sow seeds directly in the garden in late autumn.
- Motherwort grows well in any type of light. You can plant it wherever you have room, whether your chosen location is in full sun or in shade.
- It is also adaptable to most soil types, though moist, rich soil with a slightly alkaline pH of 7.7 is ideal.
- Water young plants every few days, until they are well established. Once established, it is hardy and drought tolerant
- To avoid unwanted spread, try growing it in containers or raised beds.
Medical Disclaimer
Information is for educational and informational purposes only and may not be construed as medical advice. The information is not intended to replace medical advice or treatment offered by healthcare professionals.