Motherwort

Scientific Name: Leonurus cardiaca

Plant Family: Lamiaceae, mint family

Part Used: Leaves, flowering tops

Actions:  Emmenagogue, parturient, uterine antispasmodic, anxiolytic, nervine, anodyne, bitter, diuretic, hypotensive, antiplatelet and cardiac tonic

Energetics: Drying and cooling

Preparations:  Due to its bitterness, mostly used as a tincture or vinegar

Cautions: Do not use if hypothyroid. Avoid during pregnancy until delivery

Medical Uses: Anxiety, hyperthyroidism, strengthens labour contractions