On this week's premiere broadcast of Mountain Stage, you'll hear performances from Bettye LaVette, Kim Richey, Keller Williams, The Langan Band, and Megan Jean’s Secret Family. This episode was recorded live at the Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium in Athens, Ohio.
Motherwort’s name is derived from the plant’s abilities to make a positive impact on women’s health. This plant is mostly known for the way it reduces stress and anxiety, but it is also used for hot flashes, anxiety associated with menopause and menstrual pain. People used to think it protected against evil spirits in 15th century Europe, probably because of its ability to reduce stress. Motherwort also is said to benefit the heart at an emotional level and could be the reasoning behind its scientific name, Leonurus cardiaca, which means “lion heart.” Motherwort does contain toxins that can cause photosensitivity if ingested. The plant is usually only used as a tea or a tincture, and it is preferable to make these medicinal extracts from fresh tops as opposed to dry leaves.
Tinctures are the preferred method as the tea is bitter. Suggested dosage of Motherwort herb tincture is 2 to 4 ml, three times a day. Though, some herbalists prescribe it as needed.
Motherwort should not be taken if you are pregnant.
This plant is a medicinal, and like all wild-crafted medicine, you should consult an herbalist, a doctor or do the proper research to decide if the herb is safe and right for you.
EDIBLE MOUNTAIN – How To Make Motherwort Tincture
Edible Mountain is a bite-sized, digital series from WVPB that showcases some of Appalachia’s overlooked and underappreciated products of the forest while highlighting their mostly forgotten uses.
Former legislator and public servant Bob Ashley was remembered by former colleagues including Gov. Jim Justice and Sen. Joe Manchin this week after he passed away at the age of 70.
Of the state’s 15 largest cities, only Morgantown and Bridgeport gained population from July 1, 2022, to July 1, 2023, according to new U.S. Census data.
West Virginia Public Broadcasting (WVPB) has received four awards in the 30th annual Communicator Awards. This year’s Communicator Award winners were selected from a pool of over 3,000 submissions from around the world by the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts (AIVA).