Motherwort Medicine
By Anne Calzada Herbalist
What is growing by your doorstep? Motherwort happens to be growing by mine! She is a volunteer, as I did not plant her there. Thank you Motherwort! Motherwort is big heart medicine. Motherwort is also a very powerful plant ally for women from the beginning of our menstruation until the end of our cycle. The Latin name for Motherwort is Leonarus cardiaca. She is a member of the Lamiaceae family. Motherwort is antispasmodic, cooling, analgesic, diuretic, antifungal, nervine, diaphoretic, drying, emmenagogue, circulatory stimulant.
Motherwort is a calming sedative for a rapid heartbeat, palpitations, anxiety, grief, sadness and stress. A Mother's friend, it is useful during times of stress and burden. It will calm your heart emotionally.
Taking a bath with Motherwort is soul soothing and stress reducing experience. You can use the whole plant, make a tea, flower essence or even add tincture drops to your soak.
Look at the Latin name. Leonarus cardiaca is indicative of the
cardiovascular system. Motherwort is known to stimulate your blood flow, so women who are experiencing amenorrhea may have relief using this herb. Avoid use during pregnancy because of this. It has been used by experienced midwives during labor. Motherwort tones the uterus. It can break up clots and therefore help to relive cramps during menstruation. It promotes contractions. Knowing that Motherwort can break up clots, it may be helpful for for people with varicose veins, just keeping the blood flowing properly.
Motherwort is an ally for menopausal women as well. Women who experience stress, insomnia, tension, hot flashes, palpitations and mood swings. It can help you take the edge off.
Herbalists make medicine with Motherwort as a tincture mostly. It is a bitter plant for tea, but is effective water medicine. Some women use it as an infusion. Some have burned it as a smudge. Cleansing lower vibrations and celebrating the feminine energy. Motherwort has spines growing on it and the flowers are beautiful. It is a protective plant both physically and psychically. That is why it came to grow at my doorstep as a volunteer. Offering protection and honor at the home energetically. Herbs choose you!
Motherwort Vinegar
Put a cup of dried or fresh Motherwort in a quart jar. Pour apple cider vinegar over it. Let it sit for a Moon cycle. Strain and use this mineral rich vinegar as a food and medicine.
Motherwort Herbal Bundle
Harvest your fresh Motherwort and add herbs like Lavender, Yarrow, Lilacs, Roses, Mugwort, Sagebrush, Sage etc... to make a bundle. You can dry this bundle for a smudge or you can use the fresh bundle for a bath soak.
Motherwort/Lemon Balm Tea
1/2 tsp of each herb
Add to a cup and pour boiling water over the herbs, allow to steep. Strain and drink and or add to your bath. Use as a footbath too!
Blessings,
Anne
