- Lamiaceae
- Aerial parts
- Central Asia · naturalised in Europe
- Dried herb
Motherwort
Leonurus cardiaca
Select sizeThe plant
Motherwort is a mint-family plant with divided leaves and small pinkish flowers along its stems.
What's in it
Iridoids and flavonoids are groups of natural plant compounds. Bitter substances give the herb its strong taste.
Leonurine
An alkaloid named for the genus, largely specific to it.
Stachydrine
A betaine alkaloid, abundant in the aerial parts.
Iridoid glycosides
Including leonuride. A source of the bitterness.
Rosmarinic acid
The polyphenol shared across the mint family.
How it works
Calm tradition: Motherwort has traditionally been used for nervous tension—a feeling of being keyed up or unsettled. Heart awareness: Its history includes nervous awareness of the heartbeat after serious causes have been excluded. This helps explain the heart reference in its botanical name.
In the tradition
Used in European herbal practice and traditional women’s formulas.
The botanical name cardiaca refers to the heart.
- 1Steep 1–2 tsp dried motherwort in 250ml hot water for 5–10 mins.
- 2Drink 1–2 cups daily, or as needed for palpitations or menstrual support.
- 3Intensely bitter flavour — pairs well with lemon balm, hawthorn, or honey to balance.
- 4Best taken consistently over several weeks for hormonal benefits.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Best used within 12–18 months.
- Avoid during pregnancy.
- Palpitations require assessment; check heart medicines, blood thinners and breastfeeding.
- On sedatives or anti-anxiety medication: may enhance effects.
- Hypothyroidism: check with your doctor.
A food supplement, not a substitute for a varied diet. Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
Common questions
How do I prepare motherwort?
Motherwort is steeped as an infusion. Steep 1–2 tsp dried motherwort in 250ml hot water for 5–10 mins. Full directions are in the How to use panel above. See also: Infusion vs decoction.
What is motherwort?
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) belongs to the Lamiaceae family; the aerial parts are used. Origin: Central Asia, naturalised in Europe. A traditional bitter herb associated with calm and women’s wellbeing.
How should I store dried motherwort?
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Best used within 12–18 months.
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