Motherwort

Motherwort is a member of the mint family that earned its common name because it was once a favorite herb among midwives.

The leaves of this herb is characterized by a very bitter flavor and a hairy texture, which likely explains why motherwort is also known as Lion's Ear and Lion's Tail.

This herb is often used in tea blends, but due to the presence of cardiac alkaloids, internal use is not recommended during pregnancy or in conjunction with pharmaceutical medications that act on the heart.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is said to benefit the heart and the menstrual cycle. Some of its uses include reducing the risk of heart disease, treating heart palpitations, reducing anxiety, and treating high blood pressure. Motherwort is also believed to help ease symptoms of menopause. 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).