What Is Siberian Motherwort?

Appearance

• This plant grows to between 8 and 32 inches high, and has a long stem with thin, hand-like leaves growing up its length. The leaves are 1 to 2 inches long, with toothed margins. Siberian motherwort also produces white, reddish or purplish-red flowers in whorls around the top half of the stem between midsummer and early fall. In some areas, this plant flowers year round.

Habitat

• In its natural range, Siberian motherwort prefers sandy or stony grassland environments and pine forests. The plant grows from seed, and requires full sunlight to germinate properly. This fast-growing herb prefers warm climates. It tolerates frost poorly, meaning home growers may do best with container-grown plants that they can take indoors in winter. Water and fertilize well to produce healthy plants, but avoid growing conditions with poor drainage that can injure the roots.

Uses

• Siberian motherwort has traditionally been used to treat snake and insect bites, regulate the menstrual cycle, and alleviate fever and other illnesses. This plant also acts as a diuretic. It contains a number of alkaloids that cause feelings of euphoria, and has been used as a stimulant and aphrodisiac. Siberian motherwort is part of devotional rites in India, and folk magic in parts of Mexico, notes the website Entheology.

Considerations

• Leonurus sibiricus contains small amounts of several compounds, and produces a mildly narcotic effect. It is sometimes used as a marijuana substitute in parts of Mexico, or mixed with other herbal smoking blends in a rolled cigarette. When used as a drug, this plant may be called marihuanilla. Since its effects are very mild, use of this plant is not illegal in the United States.