Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Lamiaceae
• Common Names: Motherwort, Lion’s Tail, Heartwort
• Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, flowers)

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Description

Leonurus cardiaca is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, now naturalized in North America. It has a long history of use for cardiovascular, nervous system, and reproductive health. Known as a calming herb, motherwort is particularly beneficial for stress-related heart conditions and menstrual imbalances.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional European herbalism for heart health and anxiety relief.
• Employed as a uterine tonic to regulate menstruation and ease cramps.
• Historically used to reduce heart palpitations and nervous tension.
• Applied for postpartum recovery and hormonal balance.

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Constituents

• Alkaloids (leonurine)
• Flavonoids
• Iridoids
• Tannins
• Bitter principles
• Essential oils

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Actions

• Nervine
• Cardiotonic
• Uterine tonic
• Antispasmodic
• Hypotensive
• Bitter tonic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Heart and Circulatory Health:
Motherwort is known for its ability to calm heart palpitations, lower blood pressure, and support overall heart function.

2. Nervous System Support:
Acts as a nervine to reduce stress, anxiety, and emotional tension.

3. Menstrual and Reproductive Health:
Used to regulate menstrual cycles, ease menstrual cramps, and support postpartum recovery.

4. Antispasmodic Benefits:
Helps relieve muscle tension, digestive cramping, and uterine spasms.

5. Digestive and Liver Support:
As a bitter tonic, it stimulates digestion and liver function.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried herb per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied externally for inflammation and cramps.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy: Not recommended as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
• Low Blood Pressure: Use with caution as it may lower blood pressure further.
• Blood-Thinning Medications: Consult a healthcare provider before use if on anticoagulants.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and relaxing; used for heart health, nervous system balance, and hormonal regulation.
• Traditional European Medicine: Valued for its ability to ease heart palpitations and emotional distress.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Vata, but excessive use may aggravate Kapha.

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Combinations

• For Heart Health: Combine with hawthorn and lemon balm.
• For Stress and Anxiety: Combine with valerian and passionflower.
• For Menstrual Support: Combine with raspberry leaf and cramp bark.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Aerial parts are collected in mid to late summer when in bloom.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried leaves and flowers in airtight containers away from light and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Leonurus cardiaca’s cardioprotective, nervine, and uterine tonic properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Motherwort remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for cardiovascular health, nervous system support, and reproductive well-being.