What part of the motherwort is used for tea?

December 23, 2025 •

2 min read

Historically used in Europe and Asia for its calming properties, the motherwort plant has long been a staple in herbal medicine. For those seeking to brew their own herbal infusions, knowing what part of the motherwort is used for tea is the first step toward a successful remedy.

Quick Summary

The aerial parts of the motherwort plant, specifically the leaves, flowers, and tender stems, are used for making tea. For optimal potency, they are best harvested during the plant's full bloom and can be used fresh or dried.

Key Points

Leaves and Flowers are Used: The aerial parts of the motherwort plant, specifically the leaves and flowers, are the primary parts used for brewing tea.
Harvest in Full Bloom: For the highest concentration of active compounds, harvest the leaves and flowers when the motherwort plant is in full bloom during the summer.
Use Fresh or Dried: Both fresh and dried motherwort can be used, though dried material is more concentrated and requires less per serving.
Proper Steeping Temperature: To preserve delicate compounds, use hot (not boiling) water and steep the tea for 5–15 minutes.
Watch for Bitterness: Motherwort tea has a naturally bitter flavor; add honey, lemon, or other herbs like mint to improve the taste.
Consult Healthcare Providers: Due to its uterine and cardiac effects, pregnant women and individuals with heart conditions or on blood thinners should avoid motherwort or consult a professional first.

Using the Aerial Parts of Motherwort

For motherwort tea, the aerial parts of the plant, including leaves, flowers, and tender stems, are traditionally used. These parts are favored for their concentration of beneficial compounds. The root is not typically used for tea.

The Importance of Proper Harvesting

Harvesting is crucial for quality. Collect aerial parts during full bloom in early to midsummer.

Technique: Snip the top third of the plant with clean shears.
Handling: Wear gloves due to spiny calyxes.
Drying: Hang small bundles in a dry, ventilated area out of direct sun, or use a dehydrator.
Storage: Store dried herbs in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.

Comparison of Motherwort Preparations

Motherwort can be used in teas or tinctures. The table below outlines key differences:


Feature	Herbal Infusion (Tea)	Herbal Tincture
Preparation	Steep dried leaves and flowers in hot water for 5–15 minutes.	Soak fresh or dried herbs in high-proof alcohol for 4–6 weeks.
Parts Used	Primarily leaves and flowers.	Can use leaves, flowers, and stems.
Concentration	Less concentrated.	Highly concentrated.
Taste	Bitter, pungent, earthy.	Intense, concentrated bitter taste.
Storage	Consume within 48 hours.	Viable for several years.
Quickness	More immediate calming effect.	Slower, more systemic effects.

The Brewing Process for Motherwort Tea

Brewing motherwort tea is straightforward, focusing on water temperature and managing bitterness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Measure: Use 1–2 teaspoons of dried herbs per cup; use about three times more if fresh.
Heat Water: Heat water to just below boiling (around 180°F/82°C).
Steep: Pour hot water over herbs, cover, and steep for 5 to 15 minutes to prevent aromatic oils from escaping.
Strain and Serve: Strain the herbs. Sweeten with honey or add lemon or mint to counter the bitterness.

Important Considerations and Safety

Motherwort is generally safe, but pregnant women should avoid it due to uterine stimulation. Those with heart conditions or on blood thinners should consult a doctor due to potential interactions. Rare side effects include stomach irritation and diarrhea in high doses.

Conclusion

To make motherwort tea, use the aerial parts – leaves, flowers, and tender stems – harvested during full bloom for optimal potency. Proper harvesting and brewing are key to an effective tea. Always be aware of potential effects and consult a healthcare provider if you have underlying conditions or are pregnant. Further research into traditional and modern herbalism can enhance your understanding.

Additional Considerations for Motherwort

Potential Benefits

Heart Health: Traditional use includes supporting cardiovascular health and addressing heart palpitations linked to nervous tension.
Nervine: May help calm nerves, anxiety, and irritability.
Women's Health: Historically used for menstrual discomfort, postpartum recovery, and menopause support.

Potential Interactions

Blood Thinners: Avoid with medications like warfarin as motherwort may increase their effect.
Heart Medications: Do not combine with other heart medications without medical advice.
Sedatives: Combining motherwort with other sedatives can cause excessive sleepiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to harvest motherwort is when the plant is in full bloom, typically occurring from June through August. This is when the leaves and flowers contain the highest concentration of medicinal compounds.

Yes, the more tender, upper portions of the motherwort stems can be used, along with the leaves and flowers. The lower, tougher parts of the stem are generally discarded or used for stronger preparations like tinctures.

Yes, motherwort tea is known for its distinctively bitter and pungent taste. To make it more palatable, many people add honey, lemon, or other complementary herbs such as peppermint.

For a standard infusion, you should steep motherwort tea in hot (but not boiling) water for 5 to 15 minutes. Covering the cup while steeping helps trap the volatile oils.

No, it is not safe to drink motherwort tea during pregnancy. Motherwort can stimulate the uterus and should be avoided unless under the direct guidance of a healthcare professional, specifically for use near or after labor.

To dry motherwort, hang small bunches of the harvested aerial parts in a dry, dark, well-ventilated area. Once fully dry, store the herbs in an airtight glass jar away from light and heat. Use within one year for best potency.

Yes, motherwort has been traditionally used to support the heart, particularly in cases of heart palpitations associated with anxiety and nervous tension. However, if you have a heart condition, you must consult a doctor before use, as it can interact with other medications.