Nurturing the Wild Heart

 A Chinese Motherwort (Leonurus japonicus) that I had the honor of growing in Sims, NC in 2015. Notice the sharp spikes around the flowers.  In continuing with the theme of summer heart herbs I wanted to talk about Motherwort. The Latin name for the most commonly used species of Motherwort is Leonurus cardiaca or Lion Hearted. It's many names speaks of its many uses. Motherwort is a superb heart tonic. It is a cardiac nervine which means it relaxes the heart and helps it deal with side effects of stress like high blood pressure and palpitations from anxiety. It has been said that there is no better herb for strengthening and gladdening the heart. A beautiful female lion we saw at the Buffalo Zoo in 2009 Along with the heart, Motherwort is particularly good for women troubles. It brings blood flow to the uterus so it is excellent for bringing on stuck moontimes helping with cramps and spotty flow. Due to Motherwort's ability to bring on menses it is not safe to use...

When I was learning how to make herbal pills I had an idea that came together deliciously! Made with two of my favorite adaptogens and chocolate so there is a lot to love!  So adaptogens are herbs that help us deal with the stresses of life. Stress from working too hard or too long, stressful moments life throws our way, stress of illness, stress of loss...for ANY stress these herbs will come in handy! They help us cope, maintain wellness, and keep moving. I make these for my dad who works swing shift in his 60s and he swears by them! So does my mom since he stops falling asleep all the time and they can actually go do things on his days off. He is the one who loving calls them "Cocoa Dirts" because that is what he thinks they taste like. My own husband loves them too and will pass them out at work on a hard day. Herbal pills are messy fun to make! Here is my recipe: COCOA DIRTS 1 oz. Ashwagandha powder 1 oz. Eleuthro powder aka Siberian Ginseng 2.5 o...