Codonopsis (Codonopsis pilosula) vs Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

Codonopsis (Codonopsis pilosula)

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

About

Codonopsis is a small twining perennial growing to 5 feet with oval leaves and pendulous green and purple bell-shaped flowers marked with purple in summer. Native to northeastern China and growing throughout the region, especially in the Shanxi and Szechuan provinces, it is propagated from seed in spring or autumn, and the root is harvested in autumn once the aerial parts have died down. Codonopsis holds a central place in Chinese herbal medicine.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is a perennial herb up to about 5 ft (1.5 m), featuring toothed, palm-shaped leaves and clusters of pink, double-lipped flowers.

Safety & precautions

Ask a qualified professional before medicinal use.

Pregnancy & Excessive Menstrual Bleeding: Avoid, as motherwort can stimulate uterine contractions and aggravate heavy bleeding. Medication Interactions: May impact blood pressure or heart medications; consult a professional.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.