| Motherwort is a member of
the mint family. It's taste is somewhat bitter. In old English, "wort" means
herb. Motherwort is the Mother-herb, Little Mother, or Herb for the
Mother.
As an emmenagogue, Motherwort
aids in stimulating delayed menses and helps calm menstrual cramps. Motherwort
is a uterine stimulant and not recommended during pregnancy, until the last
few days when it may be used to facilitate the birthing.
Motherwort is a strong ally for
menopausal women. Motherwort, when used regularly, calms and soothes. The
"little mother" is not sedating, but strengthens nerves, helping relax tensions.
Motherwort helps ease hotflashes and aids in restoring sleep.
The botanical name, Leonurus cardiaca,
gives us insight into the herb. "Leonurus" may be translated "lion-hearted"
and "cardiaca", of the heart. Motherwort lends us her lion-like strength
and calms rapid heart beat due to anxiety. |
