Motherwort is literally mother’s herb, a name the plant acquired because of its historical use by anxious mothers. The plant is large, easy to grow, and quite striking -- but prickly. The leaves are most often used in herbal teas.

Motherwort has been used in European medicine as a tonic herb for women's health and to strengthen the nervous system, particularly in cases of anxiety, restlessness, or overstimulation.* It was valued by the eclectics for its ability to uplift the heart, likely owing to its value in addressing depression and supporting mood.* For women's health, motherwort acts as an emmenagogue, supporting a regular and comfortable menstrual cycle, and it has a history of use for treating fevers.*