Leonurus cardiaca
Motherwort
Lamiaceae
At a Glance
- Common name
- Motherwort
- Scientific name
- Leonurus cardiaca
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Region
- Europe
- Plant part
- Aerial parts
- Caffeine
- Caffeine Free
- Evidence
- Insufficient
- Safety review
- Safety information on file
Safety & Cautions
Safety information on fileBotanical Description
An erect perennial 50-150 cm tall with deeply lobed palmate leaves and small pink-lilac tubular two-lipped flowers arranged in whorls up the stems; the aerial parts are the part used.
Also known as: Lion's Tail, Yi Mu Cao, Throw-wort
Historical Background
Motherwort (yi mu cao, 'mother herb') has been treasured in European, Chinese, and Ayurvedic traditions for centuries for women's and heart-nervine comfort. Its airy whorled flowers and lobed leaves earned it a place as a gentle calming herb for times of tension.
Earliest recorded uses: European and Chinese medicine for centuries; named for its traditional use for women's and heart comfort.
Traditional preparations:
- Aerial-part infusion
- Women's calming blend
- Heart-nervine tea with lemon balm
Traditional Uses
These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.
Traditional European Herbalism
Women's, heart-nervine, and calming herb.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Blood-invigorating and women's nervine herb.
Modern Herbalism
Calming nervine for tension (avoid in pregnancy).
Flavor & Aroma
Aroma: Herbal, slightly bitter, green, earthy
Tea Preparation
Modern Evidence
Motherwort has a tradition for women's and heart-nervine comfort. Clinical evidence is insufficient; preclinical work shows possible calming and cardiovascular effects, but it is not a treatment for anxiety, heart disease, menopause, or any condition, and should be avoided in pregnancy.
Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.
Related Herbs
Entry last updated August 4, 2026