Motherwort – Leonurus cardiaca
Motherwort has been known since ancient times. However, its positive effect on the heart was not recognised until the Middle Ages. But like so many natural remedies, the plant was forgotten and only recently rediscovered by English doctors.
A strong partner for the heart
Fields of application
The important ingredients of the motherwort plant are bitter substances, essential oils, tannins, flavonoids, cardiac glycosides and small amounts of alkaloids. Motherwort is used primarily for nervous tension and nervous heart complaints such as heart palpitations, provided that a serious illness has been ruled out. The medicinal plant is also used to treat menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and anxiety. Wind, stomach and intestinal disorders can also be alleviated with motherwort.
Botanical characteristics
Motherwort is native to most of Europe, Asia and North America. The plant, which has a short rootstock, forms several erect, branchy stems. Its leaves are stalked, palmately divided and three-lobed at the top. When the pale red labellum flowers bloom in July and August, the plant's herb is harvested for use in medicinal products.