Botanical name: Leonurus cardiaca
© Martin Wall
Parts used and where grown
Motherwort came from central Eurasia originally, but has spread to all temperate areas of
the world, primarily as a garden plant but also as an escaped weed. A similar plant,
Leonurus heterophyllus, is used in China. The Chinese name for motherwort is yi mu cao,
meaning “benefit mother herb.” The leaves and flowers of this mint family plant
are used as medicine. In Chinese herbal medicine, the seeds are also employed.
Motherwort has been used
in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual
health concern for complete information):
Historical or traditional use (may
or may not be supported by scientific studies)
The use of motherwort is practically the same in European folk medicine and traditional
Chinese herbal medicine. It was widely used to regulate menses and to treat associated
conditions.1 It was also considered a helpful diuretic and heart-strengthening herb
by herbalists in both cultures, particularly to alleviate heart palpitations associated with
anxiety attacks.2 Europeans used
motherwort as a sedative as well.3
Active constituents
The identities of the active constituents of motherwort are not entirely clear, though they
likely include compounds in its volatile oil and the alkaloids. Little research has been done
on motherwort in the West. Animal research performed in China suggests that motherwort
alkaloids can calm the central nervous system and stimulate the uterus to
contract.4 A report suggests that preliminary human trials have found that Chinese
motherwort stimulates uterine contraction after delivery and may alleviate glomerulonephritis
(kidney disease secondary to infection).5 However, insufficient details were
provided to assess the quality or results of these studies.
How much is usually taken?
A tea can be prepared by steeping approximately 3/4 teaspoon (4.5 grams) of the cut herb in
1/2–3/4 cups (150 ml) of water.6 Three cups (750 ml) of the tea may be
consumed daily. Alternatively, a tincture, 1/2–3/4 teaspoon (2–4 ml) three times
per day, can be taken.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
One source suggests that a single application of motherwort extract (concentration not
reported) in excess of 3 grams may cause
diarrhea, uterine bleeding, and stomach irritation.7 It should be avoided in pregnancy as large amounts may cause uterine
contraction and potential miscarriage.8
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions
with motherwort.
References:1. Foster S. Herbal Renaissance. Layton UT: Gibbs Smith
Publisher, 1993, 151–2.
2. Weiss RF. Meuss AR (trans). Herbal Medicine. Gothenberg,
Sweden: Ab Arcanum and Beaconsfield: Beaconsfield Publishers Ltd, 1985, 186–7.
3. Weiss RF. Meuss AR (trans). Herbal Medicine. Gothenberg,
Sweden: Ab Arcanum and Beaconsfield: Beaconsfield Publishers Ltd, 1985, 186–7.
4. Bensky D, Gamble A, Kaptchuk T. Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia
Medica, rev ed. Seattle: Eastland Press, 1993, 273–4.
5. Bensky D, Gamble A, Kaptchuk T. Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia
Medica, rev ed. Seattle: Eastland Press, 1993, 273–4.
6. Blumenthal M (ed). Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E
Monographs. Newton, MA: Integrative Medical Communications, 2000, 267–9.
7. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A (eds). American Herbal
Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997,
68–9.
8. Bensky D, Gamble A, Kaptchuk T. Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia
Medica, rev ed. Seattle: Eastland Press, 1993, 273–4.