Motherwort: The Gentle Heart of Menopause Support

When it comes to navigating the ups and downs of the menopausal transition, Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is a herb that deserves more attention. Its very name hints at its long-standing role as a nurturing ally for women. Commonly known as “mother’s little helper”, Motherwort has been treasured for its ability to ease the stress and tension of weary mothers and to support women throughout all stages of life — from menarche to menopause.

Folkloric uses of Motherwort emphasised it as a calming and relaxing herbal agent, with tonic effects on the hormonal, nervous, and cardiac systems. While often considered a woman’s herb, Motherwort’s gifts extend beyond the reproductive system. It is also an acclaimed cardiotonic, known for strengthening and calming the heart, as reflected in its Latin name cardiaca. 

A Brief History of Motherwort

Motherwort has been revered across cultures for centuries. In European herbal traditions, it was planted in monastery gardens and prescribed to ease “hysteria,” anxiety, and menstrual irregularities. The English name “mother’s herb” reflects its use for reproductive health and emotional support during life’s transitions — whether puberty, childbirth, or menopause.

Its reputation as a heart herb is equally strong. The Latin name Leonurus cardiaca — meaning “lion’s heart” — symbolises both its strengthening effect on the physical heart and its ability to bring courage and calm in times of emotional upheaval.

 “Drink Motherwort tea and live to be a source of continuous astonishment and frustration to wanting heirs.”
— Old country saying

This old saying reflects the high regard in which Motherwort was held — not only as a supporter of heart health, but as a plant believed to promote long life and resilience!

Motherwort’s Modern Uses in Menopause

In today’s practice, Motherwort remains a valuable ally for women navigating the challenges of perimenopause and menopause. It is particularly suited to those who:

• Experience stress-related palpitations or a racing heart
• Struggle with anxiety, irritability, or emotional overwhelm
• Have difficulty sleeping or winding down
• Feel tension, both physically and emotionally

Motherwort acts as a nervine (supporting the nervous system), a cardiotonic (strengthening and calming the heart), and a gentle antispasmodic (soothing tension in muscles, including the uterus). Its bitter taste also hints at mild digestive and liver supportive properties — important for hormonal metabolism during menopause.

In cases of hyperthyroidism, Motherwort works by helping to bring balance to the thyroid and ease common symptoms such as heart palpitations, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, and sleeplessness. Importantly, Motherwort may help regulate an overactive thyroid without depressing normal thyroid function. 

Safety, Contraindications, and Drug Interactions

Motherwort is generally well tolerated when used appropriately.

• Use with caution in women with endometriosis or fibroids, as it may increase vascularisation to the uterus.

• Use with caution during heavy menstrual bleeding as it may exacerbate this.

• Use caution when combining with central nervous system depressants (such as benzodiazepines) as Motherwort may enhance sedative effects.

• Exercise caution with blood-thinning medications due to mild anticoagulant properties.

In Summary

Motherwort truly lives up to its reputation as “mother’s little helper”. Whether calming a racing heart, easing frazzled nerves, supporting thyroid balance, or offering gentle care through hormonal transitions, it provides a nurturing touch to women under stress. In menopause, its unique blend of nervine, cardiotonic, and mild hormonal-balancing actions makes it a herb well worth considering.

Looking for natural solutions to support your menopause journey? Book a discovery call to learn how personalised herbal therapy can help you thrive through midlife.