Leonurus cardiaca - Motherwort

Leonurus cardiaca, generally known as a motherwort or lion tail, is a multi -year herbaceous plant from the family of the Lamiaceae. This plant has its origin in Eurasia and has been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of heart diseases, especially nervous heart problems for centuries. Leonurus cardiaca is not only remarkable because of its medical properties, but also because of its robust nature and the ability to thrive in various habitats.

Morphology

Leonurus cardiaca is a strong, multi -year plant that can reach a height of 50 to 150 centimeters. The plant has an upright, square stem that is often reddish and can be sparsely hairy or smooth. The stem is very branched and bears the opposite leaves.

The leaves of the plant are deeply cut, hand -shaped and serrated, which gives them a characteristic, almost spring -like look. They are dark green on the top and lighter on the underside, although they are also slightly hairy. The lower leaves are usually larger and wider, while the upper leaves become smaller and narrower.

Leonurus cardiaca flourishes from June to September and develops small, pink to purple flowers, which are arranged in sham quirles along the upper parts of the stem. The flowers have a tube -shaped shape with a two -lipped structure, typical of the lip bloomers. The upper lip is curved and hairy, while the lower lip is divided in three, the middle segment is larger and often decorated with dark spots. After flowering, the plant forms small, brown nuts as fruits.

Distribution and habitat

Leonurus cardiaca is native to the moderate zones of Eurasia, including Europe and Asia. The plant prefers moderate climates and grows in a variety of habitats. It is often found on the edges of the path, in Brachland, on banks and in rubble. Motherwort thrives particularly well in nutrient -rich, loamy soils, but prefers locations with good water supply and sufficient sunlight.

The plant has also spread through its adaptability in other parts of the world, including North America, where it is often viewed as an invasive way. Despite its robustness, Leonurus cardiaca prefers locations with good soil structure and can grow in dense stocks that protect the soil from erosion and serve as a habitat for a variety of insect species.

Medical importance

Leonurus cardiaca has a long tradition in folk medicine, especially in the treatment of heart problems, which is also expressed in his german name "Echtes Herzgespann". The most important pharmacologically active ingredients of the plant are iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, bitter substances, essential oils and alkaloids. These compounds are responsible for the calming, blood pressure -lowering and heartworthy effects of the plant.

In traditional medicine, motherwort is used primarily to treat nervous heart problems, cardiac arrhythmias and anxiety. It is assumed that the plant soothes the central nervous system and at the same time strengthens the heart, which makes it particularly helpful for stress -related heart problems. In addition, Leonurus cardiaca is also used for menstrual complaints, menopause complaints and to promote pain.

In modern phytotherapy, motherwort is often used in the form of teas, tinctures or extracts. The plant is also used in homeopathy, where it is used in a strongly diluted form to treat cardiovascular problems. It is important to note that although Leonurus cardiaca is considered to be relatively safe, the application during pregnancy and lactation as well as in patients with certain cardiovascular diseases should only be carried out under medical supervision.

Ecological meaning

Leonurus cardiaca also plays a role in her natural habitat. The plant is a valuable source of food for bees and other pollinators that are attracted by their nectar -rich flowers. In addition, the dense stocks of Herz team offer living space and protection for various types of insects, which in turn serve as a source of food for birds and other animals.

In gardens, Herz team can be used as an ornamental plant or as part of a natural garden, especially in herb gardens. The plant is relatively easy to care for and, due to its robustness and adaptability, can thrive even in difficult locations.