Motherwort, also known as Lion's Ear, is a plant you might have seen but which few people know the functions of. It is a perennial herbaceous plant with a tall, straight and hollow stem covered with trichomes. It has several clusters of flowers, arranged in the bosoms of the upper leaves. It can be encountered everywhere - in plains, grassy fields and many backyards.
The above ground parts of the plant are picked for medicinal use. Make a concoction of it by pouring 1 2/3 cups (400 ml) of boiling water over 2 tablespoons of the herb. Let it soak for 2 hours. Drink 2/5 cup (100 mL) of it 3 times daily before meals.
One of the main functions of motherwort has to do with it relieving headaches, as well as fatigue. It also has a soothing effect on smooth muscles, making it healthy for the heart.
In most cases, motherwort is combined with other herbs, since it is extremely potent. In traditional medicine, it is applied against anemia, lights forms of Graves' disease, climacteric disorders, functional disorders of the central nervous system.
It has the ability to regulate heart function and menstruation and if necessary, expand blood vessels. Taking motherwort has a diuretic effect, it decreases artery pressure and also has an anticonvulsant action.
Most of its properties are due to the leucorin contained within it. Drugs made from it bear the same name - "leucorin".
It also reduces artery pressure, which is why it is beneficial for hypertension, cardiac neurosis, angina, cardiosclerosis, cardiomyopathy, chest pain and other heart diseases.
There are numerous folk medicine recipes containing motherwort. It is used against malaria, infertility, urinary problems, even tuberculosis.
Besides taking it internally, motherwort can be applied topically. It is successfully used for applying herbal compresses to wounds and burns.
Because of its powerful effects, dosage of the herb must be regulated and in accordance with recommendations. Taking a larger dose leads to sleepiness, frequent urination, reduced pulse and hypotension.
Before use, consult with a doctor.
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