This week, in the 1920s, Oscar Micheaux was an entrepreneur filmmaker in western Virginia. He became a world-renowned director and producer. Also, Kentucky’s poet laureate lives down the road from what has been called the country’s most lethal cryptid. Attempts to spot it have led to deaths. And, we talk soul food with Xavier Oglesby, who’s passing on generations of kitchen wisdom to his niece.
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.
Chuck Kleine
/
WVPB
Motherwort plant tops should be picked when the flowers are in bloom.
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.
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This week, in the 1920s, Oscar Micheaux was an entrepreneur filmmaker in western Virginia. He became a world-renowned director and producer. Also, Kentucky’s poet laureate lives down the road from what has been called the country’s most lethal cryptid. Attempts to spot it have led to deaths. And, we talk soul food with Xavier Oglesby, who’s passing on generations of kitchen wisdom to his niece.
Watch the "America250 Ceremony" at the West Virginia State Capitol Complex on July 4, 2026 at 6 p.m. with West Virginia Public Broadcasting's live video stream.
Standing 230 feet tall on the State Capitol Complex, the America250 Wheel features 45 gondolas - one honoring each American president - and offers riders panoramic views stretching up to 14 miles across Charleston.
