The so-called motherwort, as the alpine motherwort is also called in the vernacular, ranks in the genus of umbelliferae (herbaceous plants). Already in ancient times, the plant got the name because it was often taken for suffering from women’s diseases. A medicinal herb that in Grisons is even included in the daily alpine prayer.
Occurrence and cultivation of the alpine motherwort.
The so-called motherwort, as the Alpine motherwort is also called in the vernacular, ranks in the genus of umbellifers (herbaceous plants). Alpine motherwort is a hardy perennial that grows between 10 and 50 centimeters tall. The flowers of the plant are white to pink and smell strong and spicy. It is an ancient medicinal plant and a valuable cattle fodder, growing in meadows in the Alpine region, as well as in the mountains of southern and central Europe. Motherwort grows best on fresh soils, pastures and snow valleys (shallow depressions and hollows in high mountains). The leaves of the plant are triangular and pinnate with two or three hairs. The umbels (inflorescence) have no bracts. The aromatic scent of the flowers, reminiscent of fennel or lovage, can be clearly smelled in the meadows between June and August. In autumn, the flowers of alpine motherwort develop the seeds, which are about six millimeters long and three millimeters thick.
Effect and use
Collected are the flowers of the Alpine motherwort between May and September. The plant contains essential oils, monoterpenes (components of essential oils that prevent cancer and lower cholesterol), fats, vitamins, minerals and protein. Usable parts of the plant are the fresh leaves, the seeds and the root stem. The main use specializes in the digestive tract and female reproductive organs. Thus, the medicinal herb is said to relieve flatulence and colic, as it has a mild warming effect in the intestines. In case of lack of appetite, it has an appetite stimulating effect. During menstrual disorders, it has a diuretic and antispasmodic effect. It is especially recommended after childbirth to increase milk yield. In witchcraft medicine, it was once used for this purpose, which is why it received the name “motherwort”. Other ailments for which the intense aromatic root is used are constipation, liver, kidney and bladder disorders. Due to its aphrodisiac and tonic effect, many elderly people, and people suffering from loss of appetite also take Alpine motherwort. It also alleviates cardiac insufficiency and lung congestion. In the form of teas and tinctures, the plant parts are used in medicinal medicine. The leaves have an appetizing effect and they promote digestion. In crushed form they are used against skin diseases or gout pain. For digestive problems, the leaves are dried and then poured over hot, no longer boiling water. After brewing for ten minutes, the tea is drunk. It is also possible to pour hot water on the seed, which is taken off as soon as it is ripe, and let it infuse for 20 minutes. The decoction of the seeds is effective against migraine, lack of appetite and bladder problems.
Importance for health, treatment and prevention.
To prepare a tincture, the root of alpine motherwort in a sealable jar, pour double grain or spirit of wine until all parts of the plant are covered. The mixture is left to infuse, sealed, for 2 to 6 weeks. After straining, pour into a dark bottle to protect the tincture from brightness. Between 10 and 15 drops of the tincture can be taken daily. It can be diluted with water, of course. External application of alpine motherwort in the form of tea or the diluted tincture is possible in the form of compresses or baths. With this type of application, skin diseases are alleviated. To apply the tincture like an ointment, it can be mixed with beeswax. If the root is to be used in medicinal medicine, there should be one hundred percent certainty that it is indeed the alpine motherwort. There are similar plants in nature, but they are poisonous. The occurrence of the motherwort has become rare due to many wild collections. It takes up to seven years for a plant to grow large enough. After digging, the root is cleaned, cut and dried well in the airy shade.It is stored in a closed container so that the essential oils do not volatilize. Decoction of the root helps primarily with digestive problems. Alpine motherwort is not only used in natural medicine. It is also a component of herbal schnapps and liqueurs. The main ingredient in these products is the root; thus, the Bärwurzlikör is also made from the root of the Alpine motherwort. Usually the liquor is drunk after a meal. It tastes very good and also has a health-promoting effect due to its deflating and purifying properties. In the kitchen, the fresh leaves, which can be compared to fresh parsley, are used in the refinement of dishes because of their essential oils. It is used to refine soups, salads and cheese, and the seeds are also used as a spice. Taking alpine motherwort in the form of teas or other products mentioned have no side effects when taken in moderate doses. Taken in larger quantities, it can cause headaches. In general, there is no group of people for whom therapy with alpine motherwort is harmful. In any case, consultation with a physician or pharmacist is recommended. Especially if persistent discomfort or secondary diseases occur.
