Tigress Botanicals

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca), whose very name means “lion-hearted,” has long been cherished as both a medicine and a spiritual ally. Known as a plant of courage, protection, and maternal comfort, motherwort bridges the worlds of body, mind, and spirit. It offers calm to the heart, nurturance to the spirit, and resilience to those walking through life’s challenges.

🌸 Spiritual Meaning of Motherwort

Spiritually, motherwort is tied to the Divine Feminine, maternal energy, and nurturing care. It symbolizes strength, courage, and protection for the heart and spirit. Traditionally, healers have used it in rituals to:

•Anchor the spirit during times of grief, stress, or transition

•Build emotional boundaries and shield from negativity

•Foster inner peace and help release trauma carried in the ancestral line

Many call it a herb of the “lion-hearted,” as it inspires bravery and stability in adversity while still holding a loving, gentle energy.

💚 Physical & Emotional Healing

Motherwort is a nervine—a herb that soothes the nervous system—and has been valued for centuries for its ability to:

•Calm heart palpitations and anxiety

•Support the cardiovascular and nervous systems

•Relieve stress and emotional overwhelm

•Ease cramps and tension in the body

Culpeper, the famous herbalist, wrote:

“There is no better herb to take melancholy vapours from the heart, and to strengthen it.”

✨ If you want to experience motherwort’s medicine yourself, you can try it as a Motherwort Tincture or sip on Motherwort Tea. Both are simple, accessible ways to invite this heart-centered plant into your daily wellness ritual.

🐝 Motherwort & Nature’s Rhythm

This spiky-topped mint family plant is a pollinator favorite. When in full bloom, bees can be heard buzzing busily among its flowers, drawn to its nectar and medicine. The aerial parts are harvested in the growing season, offering a slightly bitter taste that works beautifully in teas and tinctures.

🌍 Historical & Cultural Uses

Middle Ages: Used to calm the nerves and ward off evil spirits.

Eclectic Physicians (19th century): Prescribed for women’s reproductive and emotional health.

Traditional Chinese Medicine: Known for its affinity with the heart (Xin) and blood, supporting circulation and calming the spirit.

Native American Tribes: Valued for its role in women’s health and nervous system balance.

🦁 The Lion-Hearted Energy

The Latin name Leonurus cardiaca literally translates to “lion-hearted.” This name captures its essence: a herb that strengthens us to be brave and courageous, while still nurturing us like a loving mother. It helps us hold both strength and softness, embodying resilience without losing tenderness.

As one herbalist beautifully said:

“Motherwort awakens and supports the heart space, reminding us of the home within. Her medicine warms and embraces us, similar to a loving hug.”

🌿 How to Use Motherwort

Tea: A gentle way to soothe the nervous system. Best combined with oats, marshmallow, or licorice for balance.

Tincture: 15–40 drops, 1–4 times daily, for acute stress or heart support.

Ritual Use: Burn or carry motherwort for protection, grounding, and courage.

⚠️ Note: Avoid during pregnancy, as motherwort can stimulate uterine contractions.

✨ Closing Thoughts

Motherwort is more than just a herb—it is an ally of courage, comfort, and protection. Whether taken as tincture to calm the heart, brewed into tea for nervous system support, or invoked in ritual for strength, this lion-hearted plant reminds us that healing and bravery can coexist.

As we walk through life’s wounds, transitions, and uncertainties, motherwort whispers:

“Be brave, dear heart. You are held, you are strong, and you are never alone.”