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Motherwort

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Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca herb illustration

Photo: H. Zell · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Source

Motherwort

Leonurus cardiaca

Family: Labiatae  |  Parts Used: Leaves

Motherwort is a bitter, warming herb used for both heart and reproductive support. It addresses anxiety, insomnia, and arteriosclerosis while stimulating delayed menstruation and easing menopausal symptoms. Its key alkaloids and bitter glycosides act as a cardiac tonic and antispasmodic, making it one of the more versatile herbs for women's circulatory and hormonal health.

Reproductive Circulatory Nervous Western TCM

Traditional Uses

  • Stimulates delayed menstruation
  • Eases menopausal symptoms
  • Supports heart and circulatory health
  • Addresses arteriosclerosis
  • Reduces anxiety and insomnia
  • Promotes overall circulation

Properties

Key Constituents

Preparations & Dosage

  • Infusion: 1 oz dried herb per quart water; drink 1-3 cups daily.
  • Tincture: 15-30 drops daily.

TCM Profile: Bitter, spicy, slightly cold.

Historical Note: Ancient Chinese records indicate that courtesans used motherwort daily to prevent pregnancy and to guard against venereal disease.

Cautions

  • Avoid during pregnancy. Motherwort is a strong uterine stimulant.
  • May interact with thyroid medications, sedatives, blood thinners, and heart medications.
  • May cause increased bleeding; discontinue use before surgery.
  • May lower blood pressure and heart rate.
  • May cause photosensitivity.

Habitat & Growing Conditions

Native to southeastern Europe and central Asia. Now a common naturalized plant in North America, growing in zones 3-8. Prefers moist soil with full sun to partial shade.

Related Articles

Sources & Research

The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, p158

The New Holistic Herbal, David Hoffmann, p215

Published Research:

Leonurus cardiaca L. (motherwort): a review of its phytochemistry and pharmacology | Phytotherapy Research (2013)

Leonurus cardiaca L. as a Source of Bioactive Compounds: An Update of the European Medicines Agency Assessment Report | BioMed Research International (2019)

Phytochemical Profile and Biological Activities of Crude and Purified Leonurus cardiaca Extracts | Plants (2021)

Phytochemical and Psychotropic Research of Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca L.) Modified Dry Extracts | Plants (2021)

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you are under the care of a health care provider or taking prescription medication, check with your provider before using any herbal supplement.

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