Motherwort: Uses for Anxiety, Blood Pressure, Period Cramps, and More
Medically reviewed by Allison Herries, RDNMedically reviewed by Allison Herries, RDN
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.
Takeaway
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. When choosing a supplement, look for third-party 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.
Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
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.
Ursolic acid, 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 reduce inflammation and slow the development of heart 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 for anxiety, 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 and sleep disorders. After 28 days of treatment with motherwort, 32% of participants showed a significant improvement in symptoms of anxiety and depression, 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 unplanned weight gain due 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 of low-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 the side effects of menopause in humans. More human trials must be done to better support these claims.
Postpartum Bleeding
Traditionally, motherwort has been used to treat menstrual disorders such as dysmenorrhea (painful periods), amenorrhea (absence of a period), and postpartum bleeding. However, these uses are not well-supported by research.
In one study, an injection of motherwort was found to help reduce blood loss after a surgical delivery, or cesarean 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 less bleeding in the postpartum period.
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.
The best way to prevent side effects is by taking motherwort as directed.
Common Side Effects
For the most part, motherwort is thought to be safe. However, it may trigger certain side effects like:
Stomach irritation
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:
Hives or rash
Watery, red eyes
Abdominal pain
Heart palpitations (fast, fluttering, or pounding heart)
Seek immediate medical attention if you have an allergic reaction to motherwort.
Takeaway
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.
Precautions
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 a bleeding disorder should 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 Facts
Active ingredient(s): Furanic diterpenes, alkaloids, sterols, iridoids, flavonoids, ursolic acid, minerals
Alternate name(s): Leonurus cardiaca, L. cardiaca, yi mu cao, throw-wort, lion's ear, lion's tail
Legal status: Legal, sold over the counter in the United States
Suggested dose: No suggested dosage for motherwort, with side effects occurring at doses over 3 grams per day
Safety considerations: Generally considered safe; may cause upset stomach and other mild side effects
Dosage: How Much Motherwort Should I Take?
Explainer
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 general dosage guidelines 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 possible side effects or toxicity.
Interactions
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 other blood thinners should 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.
Takeaway
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.
Similar Supplements
Other herbs and supplements claim to work similarly to motherwort.
Similar supplements to motherwort include:
Garlic: Aside from flavoring food, garlic may also offer heart-protective benefits. One review found that garlic supplementation may reduce blood pressure and total cholesterol, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.
Chamomile: Typically used as a tea, chamomile may help reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). A long-term study found chamomile to significantly reduce moderate to severe symptoms of GAD.
Red clover: Red clover, a wild herb, may be able to help relieve some symptoms of menopause. One recent review concluded that supplementing with red clover may reduce the frequency of hot flashes in those going through menopause.
Iron: After having a baby, iron is often recommended to help with postpartum bleeding. Iron supplementation (and eating iron-rich foods) in the postpartum period may help prevent anemia caused by blood loss associated with childbirth.
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-leaf tea that 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
Motherwort is an herb that grows worldwide and may offer various health benefits. However, most health claims surrounding motherwort are not well-supported by scientific evidence.
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.
Read the original article on Verywell Health.
