Leonurus cardiaca (Motherwort)

Family: Labiatae

Part Used: Herba

Active Constituents:

Alkaloids (leonurine, stachydrine), bitter glycoside (leonurin), iridoids, tannins, volatile oils,

Vitamins (A & C)

Medicinal Actions:

Anti-spasmodic, cardiac tonic, emmenagogue, nervine, sedative, mild uterine stimulant, uterine tonic

Medicinal Uses:

Leonurus has a hypotensive action due to its effect as a vasodilator. It is a gentle cardiotonic and is especially indicated for cardiac disorders of nervous origin like tachycardia secondary to anxiety. It is especially indicated for pregnant women with fear, palpitations and/or shortness of breath. It is diffusive in its action, exerting a relaxing effect with a slight stimulating edge. It is the main herb for treating palpitations caused by the peri-menopause.

Leonurus has long been used as a female tonic. It will increase uterine contractions while reducing anxiety and spasm in the muscle. It is antiseptic to the mucous membranes of the digestive or genito-urinary tract. The vasodilator effect will increase circulation to the pelvis or the intestines. Leonurus is most indicated for use in patients who feel anxious, restless, have pelvic and lumbar discomfort and experience general weakness. It relieves stagnation in the pelvis, especially suppressed discharges. It is specifically indicated for treatment of headache, insomnia, vertigo, pelvic complaints, anxiety attacks and high stress. It is also useful in treatment of hyperthyroidism in combination with Lycopus and Melissa. It has some mild galactagogue effects.

As a warm preparation, it relieves pelvic congestion and has an anti-spasmodic effect on the uterus. In cold preparations, it is a digestive tonic to the stomach, and promotes suppressed menses that is secondary to pelvic weakness. It also relieves pelvic pain.

Pharmacy:

Infusion: 1 tsp/cup QD to BID

Tincture (1:5): 4-6 ml TID

Fluid Extract (1:1): 2-3 ml TID

Capsules: 250 mg, 1-2 caps TID