Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsUsesSide EffectsPrecautionsDosageToxicityInteractionsHow to StoreSimilar SupplementsSources & What to Look For
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Uses
Side Effects
Precautions
Dosage
Toxicity
Interactions
How to Store
Similar Supplements
Sources & What to Look For
Motherwort(Leonurus cardiaca)is a perennial herb traditionally used to treat anxiety, high blood pressure, symptoms of menstruation and menopause, and more.Very few scientific studies, though, have focused on the treatment effects of motherwort in humans. Those that have are promising, but more research is needed to ensure its effectiveness.
Still, motherwort is widely thought to be safe, especially when brewed as a loose-leaf tea. Motherwort extracts and essential oils are also thought to be safe. However, mild diarrhea, uterine bleeding, and stomach irritation have been associated with the herb’s use. Side effects and precautions should be discussed with a healthcare professional before using motherwort.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
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Benefits of Motherwort
Motherwort has long been used in several systems of traditional medicine, such as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, few scientific studies have tested the herb’s health effects. Still, some preliminary research shows that motherwort may offer potential benefits.
Below is a look at several key findings from research on motherwort.
Heart Health
Preliminary research shows that motherwort may contain heart-protective properties.
One lab study concluded that the antioxidants in motherwort may help protect the heart from damage.
Ursolicacid, one of the active ingredients in motherwort, has also been linked to potential heart health benefits. In animal and lab studies, ursolic acid has been shown to reduceinflammationand slow the development ofheart disease.
Unfortunately, these positive results have yet to be replicated in humans. And although much can be learned from animal and lab studies, human trials are necessary before motherwort can be definitively recommended for heart health.
Anxiety
Despite being touted as a remedy foranxiety, few scientific studies have looked at whether motherwort can help.
A small study from 2011 included 50 people with high blood pressure and accompanying anxiety andsleep disorders. After 28 days of treatment with motherwort, 32% of participants showed a significant improvement in symptoms of anxiety anddepression, while 48% of participants showed moderate improvements in these symptoms. Interestingly, there was also an improvement in blood pressure.
Since this small study, little research has been conducted on motherwort for anxiety. Updated and larger-scale studies are needed to understand whether there is a relationship between motherwort and anxiety.
Menopause
Motherwort may help people who are in menopause prevent unplannedweight gaindue to changing hormones.
According to one study on menopausal mice, motherwort supplementation for six weeks resulted in lower body weight. The mice were also found to have lower levels oflow-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol(considered “bad” cholesterol), as well as decreased fat in their livers.
However, as with many other potential uses of motherwort, there is little to no scientific evidence that motherwort can decrease theside effects of menopausein humans. More human trials must be done to better support these claims.
Postpartum Bleeding
In one study, an injection of motherwort was found to help reduce blood loss after a surgical delivery, orcesarean section(C-section), when combined with the hormone oxytocin. In the study, some women were given oxytocin alone or in combination with motherwort after receiving a C-section. Those in the motherwort group saw lessbleedingin the postpartum period.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
What Are the Side Effects of Motherwort?
Although rare, it’s possible to experience side effects when taking motherwort. These side effects may be mild or severe.
Common Side Effects
For the most part, motherwort is thought to be safe. However, it may trigger certain side effects like:
Motherwort side effects tend to be mild and should disappear once you stop using the herb. Talk with your healthcare provider if side effects persist.
Severe Side Effects
Although research is lacking on motherwort, it is mostly considered a safe herb. Yet, it is possible to be allergic to motherwort, and an allergic reaction can be serious.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
Seek immediate medical attention if you have an allergic reaction to motherwort.
Since so few studies have tested motherwort’s health effects in humans, it’s unknown whether this herb is safe for long-term or regular use or how it might interact with medications or other supplements.
Motherwort may not be suitable for everyone.
People who are pregnant should avoid using motherwort. This is because the herb is believed to stimulate the uterus.
There is currently not enough information to know if motherwort is safe to use while nursing. If you are breastfeeding, talk with your healthcare provider before taking motherwort.
Anyone with ableeding disordershould also take precautions before using motherwort, as the herb may cause bleeding.
Motherwort may have sedative effects that could cause sleepiness.For this reason, people taking other sedative medications should avoid using motherwort.
It’s also important to note that using motherwort in place of standard care for the treatment of any health condition may be harmful to your health. Please seek advice from your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.
Supplement FactsActive ingredient(s):Furanic diterpenes, alkaloids, sterols, iridoids, flavonoids, ursolic acid, mineralsAlternate name(s):Leonurus cardiaca, L. cardiaca,yi mu cao,throw-wort, lion’s ear, lion’s tailLegal status:Legal, sold over the counter in the United StatesSuggested dose:No suggested dosage for motherwort, with side effects occurring at doses over 3 grams per daySafety considerations:Generally considered safe; may cause upset stomach and other mild side effects
Supplement Facts
Active ingredient(s):Furanic diterpenes, alkaloids, sterols, iridoids, flavonoids, ursolic acid, mineralsAlternate name(s):Leonurus cardiaca, L. cardiaca,yi mu cao,throw-wort, lion’s ear, lion’s tailLegal status:Legal, sold over the counter in the United StatesSuggested dose:No suggested dosage for motherwort, with side effects occurring at doses over 3 grams per daySafety considerations:Generally considered safe; may cause upset stomach and other mild side effects
Dosage: How Much Motherwort Should I Take?
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
Not enough research exists to make generaldosageguidelines for motherwort.
Some research suggests that side effects may become more likely if you take more than 3 grams of motherwort daily.However, this information is not well-supported.
To play it safe, follow the dosage recommendations listed on the packaging of the motherwort supplement you choose. You can also talk with your healthcare provider about the right dosage for you.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Motherwort?
Motherwort is not considered toxic, but you may experience side effects if you take a high dose.
According to some reports, side effects (like upset stomach and diarrhea) are more likely in doses larger than 3 grams of motherwort per day.
It should be noted, however, that more research is needed on any potential toxic effects of motherwort. There is not enough safety information on the herb.
Be sure to use motherwort only as directed to avoid any possibleside effectsor toxicity.
Like many herbs, motherwort may interact with various medications, foods, and other supplements. Do not take motherwort with medications without discussing it with your healthcare provider.
Active ingredients in motherwort, including terpenes, are known to interact with Jantoven (warfarin), a commonly used blood thinner.People on warfarin and otherblood thinnersshould consult with their healthcare provider as it may not be safe to use motherwort.
Motherwort may have sedative properties, which means people taking prescription sedatives or depressants should avoid using the herb.Taking two sedatives at once may cause excessive drowsiness.
Carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel before purchasing a new supplement. This will ensure you know which ingredients and how much of each ingredient is included in the supplement. Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.
How to Store Motherwort
To maintain proper shelf life, store supplements properly.
Keep motherwort in a cool, dry place and keep it out of direct sunlight. Typically, motherwort does not need to be refrigerated, but be sure to follow storage directions as recommended on the product label.
Motherwort supplements should be discarded once they reach their expiration date.
Other herbs and supplements claim to work similarly to motherwort.
Similar supplements to motherwort include:
Always talk with your healthcare provider before trying a new supplement. It’s typically recommended to avoid taking more than one supplement or herb for the same reason.
Sources of Motherwort and What to Look For
It’s important to know what to look for when choosing sources including supplements and food.
Food Sources of Motherwort
Motherwort is not naturally found in foods.
As an herb, motherwort can be found as a loose-leafteathat can be brewed with hot or cold water and consumed as a beverage. Otherwise, motherwort is mostly used as a supplement.
Motherwort Supplements
You can find motherwort in many forms, including capsules, tablets, extracts, tinctures, and teas. Motherwort is available on its own but is sometimes combined with other herbs and ingredients to make other supplements.
Many natural foods stores, drugstores, and stores specializing in dietary supplements sell these motherwort products. You can also purchase motherwort supplements online.
It’s worth mentioning that motherwort is said to have an unpleasant smell and taste.
Motherwort is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Some capsules may use gelatin from cows or pigs; however, vegan capsules are available.
Summary
And, although it is generally considered safe, side effects and drug interactions are possible when using motherwort. Talk with your healthcare provider if you’re interested in taking this supplement.
15 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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