Motherwort

Leonurus cardiaca

Latin Name: Leonurus cardiaca

Herb Class/Action: Nervine, cardiotonic, circulatory support tonic

Parts Used: Aerial parts in flowers, leaves

Flavors: Bitter

Energetics: Slightly cooling, drying

Traditional Benefits: Heart support, stress support, mood support, musculoskeletal support, supports women’s cycles

“Like a big hug from mom,” Motherwort greets us as if the love of nature itself could be encompassed into an herb—warm, supportive, calming, and reliable. This cardiovascular supportive nervine helps to support emotional balance, all while aiding and maintaining physical heart health in the face of occasional stress.*

If Mother Nature could wrap you in a warm, firm, soothing hug during times of stress or melancholy, she’d do just that. Instead, she’s given us the flowering herb Motherwort, which is like a weighted blanket for your soul. 

Often prepared as tea or consumed in capsule/tincture form, Motherwort’s flowers and leaves have profound effects on the mind and soul—and, subsequently, the physical heart. In the Greek and Roman Empires and Ancient China, Motherwort’s traditional uses include helping to support stress and occasional anxiousness, and aid the cardiovascular system.

A salvation for those of us who need a little help unwinding sometimes, this herbal ally supports us during times where we’re feeling blue. As a bitter member of the mint family, Motherwort is indicated for someone who tends to ‘check out’ when they feel  overwhelmed. “The bitter flavor brings us back into our bodies.” – Jim McDonald

Overall, Motherwort, helps one find peace and comfort within the mind, body, and soul. In addition to helping with stress and emotional discomfort, Motherwort may be useful for support with menstrual-related issues—including PMS and hormone balance support. Because it may help move and balance one’s flow, it’s not recommended during pregnancy or while experiencing heaving menstrual bleeding. 

Motherwort is sometimes known as Lion’s Heart—as its Latin name comes from the Greek words for
lion (leon) and heart (cardiaca).

See Literature

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Check these powerful stress clearing organic ingredients

Rhodiola rosesa

Schisandra chinensis

Withania somnifera

Eleutherococcus senticosus

Zingiber officinalis

Rhodiola rosea is a clinically backed adaptogen that helps regulate the HPA axis and cortisol levels, protecting your body from the effects of chronic stress. It boosts cellular energy, supports neurotransmitter balance, and enhances focus and resilience—so you stay clear, calm, and energised under pressure.

Read more in our encylopedia

Schisandra chinensis enhances both phase I and phase II liver detoxification pathways to eliminate any toxin in your body effectively. Its potent lignans boost glutathione levels and protect liver cells from oxidative stress—supporting clean energy, mental clarity, and a more resilient response to daily toxic load.

Read more in our encylopedia

Better known under the name Ashwagandha, is a neuroendocrine tonic traditionally used to calm the nervous system and restore vitality. It helps regulate cortisol, enhances GABA signalling, and supports thyroid and immune function—promoting deep, restorative calm, sharper focus, and long-term stress resilience.

Read more in our encylopedia

Eleutherococcus senticosus is a powerhouse that strengthens your stress response and supports long-term energy without overstimulation.  It enhances oxygen uptake, mitochondrial function, and cognitive performance—helping maintain stamina, focus, and physiological balance during periods of mental and physical demand

Read more in our encylopedia

Zingiber officinale enhances the bioavailability of herbal compounds by stimulating hepatic enzyme activity, increasing bile secretion, and improving gastrointestinal motility—optimising nutrient absorption and the therapeutic efficacy of botanical formulations.

Read more in our encylopedia