Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)
Photo: Bff · CC BY-SA 3.0
- Circulatory
- 2 conditions
- Licensed photo
Overview
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. As both a nervine and a cardiac remedy, motherwort is traditionally prescribed for stress-related heart palpitations, mild hypertension, and female reproductive concerns.
Traditional uses & properties
Cardiac Tonic & Hypotensive: Eases strain on the heart, lowers mild hypertension, reduces palpitations, and helps prevent heart disease. Nervine & Sedative: Quells anxiety and stress, particularly in those with heart-related nervousness. Emmenagogue & Menstrual Aid: Promotes menstruation and relieves cramps in cases of scant flow or uterine weakness. Cooling & Drying: Commonly used for “hot” conditions with nervous irritability and tension.
Traditional preparations
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person.
Make and infusion and take 2-4 ounces 1-4 times daily.
Safety & precautions
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.
Drug & food interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Originally from central Asia, motherwort is naturalized in Europe and North America. It commonly grows in woodlands, roadsides, and open areas. The aerial parts are harvested in summer when flowering.
Traditionally used for
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Frequently asked questions
What is Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) as follows: Cardiac Tonic & Hypotensive: Eases strain on the heart, lowers mild hypertension, reduces palpitations, and helps prevent heart disease. Nervine & Sedative: Quells anxiety and stress, particularly in those with heart-related nervousness. Emmenagogue & Menstrual Aid: Promotes menstruation and relieves cramps in cases of scant flow or uterine weakness. Cooling & Drying: Commonly used for “hot” conditions with nervous irritability and tension.
How is Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) prepared?
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person. High Blood Pressure: Make and infusion and take 2-4 ounces 1-4 times daily.
What safety cautions apply to Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)?
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.
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