Motherwort is one of those plants that has somehow found its way into native medical lore in every corner of the Earth…from Russia to Romania …from America to Asia.
The genus name Leonurus is derived from a Latin word, leo meaning ‘lions’ and a Greek word oura, meaning ‘tail’, in reference to the leaf’s shaggy shape – like a lion’s tail. The species name, cardiaca is from the Greek word kardiaca, meaning ‘heart’.
The Japanese consider Motherwort tea to be a drink benefiting longevity, thus the expression, “Drink motherwort to the despair of your heirs”. The Japanese have a Motherwort festival on the ninth day of the ninth month called Kikousouki. During this time Motherwort flowers are eaten in rice and added to saki.
Inhibits blood platelet aggregation and lowers blood lipid levels;
Lowers high blood pressure and calms arrhythmias;
Calms palpitations and normalizes heart function in general;
Aids in treating thyroid hyper function;
Helps relieve pain during childbirth;
Stimulates the uterus to contract after delivery, thus helping to prevent infection.
Calms the central nervous system.