Introduction
Real motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca), also known as lion’s tail, is a well-tried medicinal plant with a long history in traditional European medicine. Its healing properties were first documented in ancient Greece and Rome. Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder described the plant in their writings and praised its calming and heart-strengthening effects. In medieval monastic medicine, motherwort was also used primarily for heart complaints and nervous conditions.
Real motherwort: dosage and forms of administration
Real motherwort can be taken in various forms:
- Tea: The dried leaves and flowers are used for this. To make a cup of tea, pour 250 ml of boiling water over a teaspoon of dried herb and allow to steep for about 10 minutes. The recommended daily dose is two to three cups.
- Tincture: a concentrated alcoholic solution made from fresh or dried plant parts. The usual dosage is 20 to 30 drops three times a day.
- Capsules/tablets: These contain standardized extracts and the dosage is based on the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 300 to 500 mg per day.
- Liquid extract: The dosage is similar to that of the tincture, usually 1 to 2 ml three times a day.
Diseases that can be cured by real motherwort
Real motherwort is traditionally used to treat a wide range of conditions:
- Cardiovascular complaints: in particular, heart neuroses, cardiac arrhythmia and high blood pressure. It strengthens the heart and improves blood circulation.
- Nervousness and stress: Thanks to its calming effect, motherwort helps with nervous restlessness, anxiety and sleep disorders.
- Menopausal symptoms: women in the menopause benefit from the relaxing and balancing effect on the hormonal system.
- Menstrual cramps: It relieves menstrual pain and regulates an irregular cycle.
Effect on the body
The effect of motherwort is based on a combination of various ingredients, including alkaloids, bitter substances, flavonoids and essential oils. These substances work together to strengthen the heart, dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure. They also have a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. The relaxing effect on the body’s smooth muscles helps with menstrual cramps and cramps.
Real motherwort: recommended times and conditions for taking it
Motherwort should preferably be taken at times of increased nervous tension or at the first signs of cardiovascular problems. It can also be useful to take it regularly during the menopause and for menstrual problems. It is recommended that the medication be taken over several weeks to achieve the best possible effect.
Contraindications and precautions
Taking motherwort is not suitable for everyone:
- Pregnant women should avoid the herb, as it can trigger labor.
- Breastfeeding mothers should consult a doctor before taking it.
- People with low blood pressure should be careful, as the effect on the heart can further lower blood pressure.
- Patients taking heart medication should only take this product under medical supervision to avoid interactions.
Additional dietary supplements and medicinal plants
The following dietary supplements and medicinal plants can be taken in addition to support the effect of Herzgesund:
- Magnesium: Supports heart health and relieves muscle cramps.
- Valerian: Calms and helps with sleep disorders.
- Hawthorn: also strengthens the heart and improves blood circulation.
- Lavender: Promotes relaxation and can relieve anxiety.
Nutrients in food
Certain foods can support heart function:
- Green leafy vegetables: Contain magnesium and other important nutrients that promote heart health.
- Nuts and seeds: Rich in magnesium and healthy fats that strengthen the heart.
- Oily fish: Provides omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties and improve heart health.
Real motherwort: side effects and overdose
Although real motherwort is generally well tolerated, the following side effects may occur in rare cases:
- Gastrointestinal complaints: such as nausea or diarrhea.
- Skin reactions: Allergic reactions of the skin are rare but possible.
Overdosing can lead to more serious problems:
Severe drop in blood pressure: can lead to dizziness and fainting.
Heart problems: such as cardiac arrhythmia, which must be treated by a doctor.
Use in naturopathy
In naturopathy, real motherwort is often used as an ingredient in herbal mixtures for heart and nerve health. It is found in many traditional recipes and is often used in combination with other soothing and heart-strengthening plants such as hawthorn and valerian. In herbal medicine, it is considered a valuable remedy for the holistic treatment of heart and nerve disorders.
Conclusion
All in all, motherwort is a versatile and effective medicinal plant that can provide relief for many health complaints. Its calming and heart-strengthening properties make it an important component of naturopathy, especially for cardiovascular problems and nervous conditions. In the right dosage and taking into account the individual’s state of health, motherwort can be a valuable addition to promote well-being.
