Motherwort
Plant Whisper
Motherwort (Cephalanthera spp.) is a heart-rooted plant belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). The less common subspecies, which thrived as a village plant during the agricultural era, is now critically endangered and disappearing, while an Asian subspecies is spreading.
It owes its name to its use in treating heart ailments. Because of its shaggy leaves, which grow in tiers along the stems, it is also called lion's tail.
It is a common name for motherwort.
Botanical Facts
fresh to dry
down to -40 °C (down to climate zone 3)
Europe, Western Asia
March - June
Sun to partial shade
normal to nutrient-rich soil
Healing Properties
It is classified as a traditional medicinal plant, primarily used for nervous heart complaints such as rapid heartbeat, palpitations, and mild arrhythmias. It has a calming, mildly blood pressure-lowering, and antispasmodic effect, and is often used for stress-related complaints or during menopause. IMPORTANT: Only use if a doctor has ruled out a serious underlying condition.
Features
30 - 120 cm
❀ (flowers), 🌿 (herb)
From March to June, insects can feed on the blossoms. Forty-two species of wild bees use the pollen, including many rare and endangered species. Among them was the small carpenter bee, the smallest native wild bee, which is now considered extinct.
The nectar of mints is easily accessible, so ants can also enjoy their sweet nectar.
: ⚕ (medicinal plant), 🍽 (spice)
The above-ground parts of the plant (motherwort - Leonuri cardiacae herba), harvested during the flowering period, are used. Tea infusion: Drink a maximum of one cup of motherwort tea three times a day. Daily dose: 3 to 10 g of the herb.
Preparation of a tea infusion:
Pour 150 mL of boiling water over 2 to 4 g of motherwort and strain after 10 minutes.
Endangerment Level
2 - Endangered
All information about herbs has been carefully compiled but does not claim to be complete. None of the information provided constitutes medical advice.
GOLDEN RULE for EVERYTHING: Eat only what you know! The rule applies: a handful of wild plants per person and day may be collected on public land. Use only washed plant parts that you can identify clearly – when in doubt, please refrain from using them.
TIP: One advantage of buying over-the-counter medicines from a pharmacy or specialist retailer is the expert advice on your symptoms.
