MOTHERWORT
Leonurus cardiaca
COMMON NAMES: Lion’s tail, lion’s ear, throwwort.
FEATURES: There are about ten Eurasian species of this plant, three of them having been introduced into
North America from Europe. The genus is of the mint family (Labiatae). Motherwort is an exotic
perennial found growing in pastures and fields, with pink or white flowers in dense auxiliary whorls,
from May to September. The upper lip of the corolla is shaggy; the calyx has stiff teeth. The rigid stem
grows up to 5 feet, bearing some resemblance to horehound but has much longer and darker leaves.
MEDICINAL PARTS: Tops, leaves.
SOLVENTS: Water, alcohol.
BODILY INFLUENCE: Antispasmodic, emmenagogue, nervine, laxative.
USES: Motherwort has been employed from time immemorial as a domestic remedy in infusion
preparations. It is especially strengthening to the heart when problem is of a palpitation nature. A valuable
bitter tonic for almost all conditions of the stomach. Being a true nervine it is excellent for suppressed
menstruation and other female trouble, hysteria, urinary cramps, albumin in the urine, and scanty muddy
urine of typhoid. The long-established hidden talent of Leonurus has yet to be scientifically explained.
Experience shows it has also given matchless benefits in rheumatism, sciatica, neuritis, sleeplessness,
convulsion, delirium, and chest colds. Motherwort seems to seek out and eliminate unwanted congested
material that is causing discomfort. S. Clymer, in Nature’s Healing Agents, suggests Leonurus in small
doses for prevention of prenatal kidney complications, especially albumin in the urine. Also an agent for
unsuspected worms. Combines well with all herbs and is used for liver affections in combinations.
DOSE: Of the decoction, 1–2 wineglassfuls every 2–3 hours; of the extract, 3–5 grains.