Common Motherwort Leonurus Cardiaca Motherwort Herb Extract.

  seminal trace...Motherwort Herb Extract.10:1.Herba Leonuri.leonurine and stachydrene....

 


 Botanical Info of Motherwort Herb:
 Constituents and Phytochemicals:
 Archeology of Motherwort:
 Description,Uses and Effects:
 Common Indications:
 Remedies,Functions and Combinations:
 Medicinal Action and Uses:
 Therapeutics and Pharmacology:
 Administration and Application Guide:
 Research Update:Motherwort or Leonurus Cardiaca


   Botanical Info of Motherwort Herb:

 Motherwort (Herba Leonuri )
 Botanical name: Leonurus Cardiaca L. (Lamiaceae) ,Leonurus artemisia
 Family: N.O. Labiatae
 English name:Motherwort Herb
 Common Names:Motherwort, common motherwort, lion's tail, lion's tart, lion's ear, throwwort,Yi mu cao,Roman motherwort, throw-wort,Agripalma, Aslankuyrugu, Common Motherwort, Hartgespan, Motherwort
 Habitat: Throughout Europe and occasionally in Britain.
 Collection: The stalks should be gathered at the time of flowering, which is between June and September.
 Part Used: Aerial parts.
 Plant Type: Perennial
 Where To Plant: Full Sun to Partly Shady
 Flowering time: Late summer. The plant blossoms in August. It has rather a pungent odour and a very bitter taste. It is a dull green, the leaves paler below, pubescent, especially on the angles of the stem and the underside of the leaves, the hairs varying much in length and abundance.
 The name of the genus, Leonurus, in Greek signifies a Lion's tail, from some fancied resemblance in the plant.
 Astrology: Venus owns this herb and it is under Leo.

  Botanical Description: This is an erect perennial, 60-120cm high, with prominent coarsely-toothed 5-7-lobed leaves. Whorls of white to pink flowers arise in the upper leaf axils; the calyx and later the seed case are notable for the border of prickly teeth. Leonurus grows in waste places and hedgerows throughout northern temperate regions and is common in Britain.
 

  Parts used and where grown:

 Motherwort came from central Eurasia originally, but has spread to all temperate areas of the world, primarily as a garden plant but also as an escaped weed. A similar plant, Leonurus heterophyllus, is used in China. The Chinese name for motherwort is yi mu cao, meaning "benefit mother herb." The leaves and flowers of this mint family plant are used as medicine. In Chinese herbal medicine, the seeds are also employed

 Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is a perennial plant native to Europe and temperate parts of central Asia. It has been introduced into North America and now grows wild there. A different species, called Chinese motherwort (Leonurus heterophyllus), is used by Chinese herbalists in many of the same ways as Leonurus cardiaca is used in the West.

 Motherwort grows mainly in poor soil or on wastelands, although it is sometimes cultivated in gardens. The plant grows to about 3 ft (1 m) tall. It has a stem that is often red-violet in color and hairy. The hairy, palm-shaped leaves are a dull green, with the upper surface darker than the under surface. The small flowers range from white to pink to red depending on the plant. Flowers and leaves are dried and used medicinally. The leaves are at their most potent when harvested just after the plant flowers. Motherwort is also the source of a dark green dye. The plant has astringent properties and an unpleasant smell. Other names for motherwort include lion's tail, lion's ear, throw-wort, heartwort, and yi mu cao.

  Motherwort Origin:

 The part above the ground of Leonurus artemisia (Lour.) S. Y. Hu, or Leonurus sibiricus L., an annual or biennial plant, of the family Labiatae. Native to central Europe, Scandinavia, Russia and China, it is now naturalized in Java, Malacca, Malaysia and North America.
 The plant grows to about 1 m by 0.6 m. The scented flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by bees. The plant can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It requires moist soil.
 Motherwort is produced everywhere in China. Harvested when the stem leaves are luxuriant, when the flowers are not out or when the plant has just come into bloom in summer, the herb is cut into lengths and dried in the sun for use when raw or after being decocted into a soft extract.
 Also called Chinese Motherwort and Siberian Motherwort.

 

   Constituents and Phytochemicals:

  Constituents: alkaloids (including leonurine and stachydrene), iridoid glycoside (leonuride), iridoid glycosides (including leonurin and leonuridine), diterpenoids (including leocardin), flavonoids (including rutin, quercetin, hyperoside and apigenin), volatile oil, tannins, vitamin A.

  Phytochemicals:

 Iridoids: leonuride and others not yet identified

 Diterpenes of the labdane type, such as leocardin, a mixture of two epimers of 8[[beta]]-acetoyx-9[[alpha]], l3[[alpha]], l5, l6-bisepoxy-l5-hydroyx-7-oxo-labdan-6[[beta]], l9-olide (This is why shorter names are coined!)

 Flavonoids:rutin, quinqueloside, genkwanin, quercitin, quercetin, isoquercetrin, hyperoside, and apigenin and kaempferol glucosides.

 Caffeic acid 4-rutinoside. 

 Leonurine is the uterotonic principle of Leonurus artemisia. Scientists have developed a simple, high-yield synthetic procedure of 1 that is adaptable to large scale preparation. The synthesis involves the condensation of syringic acid and 4-guanidino-1-butanol hydrochloride in the presence of DDC using 1:1 HMPT-ether as solvent. The synthetic leonurine showed uterotonic activity in vivo and in vitro.

 The uterotonic principle of Leonurus artemisia, a plant leaf, is leonurine. This paper reports the development of a simple, high-yield synthetic procedure of reproducing leonurine that is adaptable to large-scale preparation. The synthetic process includes condensation of syringic acid and 4-guanidino-1-butanol hydrochloride in the presence of dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, using 1:1 hexamethylphosphoric triamide-ethyl ether as solvent. Synthetic leonourine showed uterotonic activity in vitro and in vivo, just like its naturally occurring counterpart.

 Leonurine is easily extracted into water and its derivative compound is hydrochloride monohydrate. Primary uses include (1) Respiratory tract infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and group A hemolytic streptococci. (2) Otitis media due to S. pneumoniae, Hemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis (use monohydrate only), staphylococci, streptococci, and N. catarrhalis. (3) GU infections (including acute prostatitis) due to Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis or Klebsiella species. (4) Bone infections caused by P. mirabilis or staphylococci. (5) Skin and skin structure infections due to staphylococci and streptococci.

 Motherwort contains Stachydrine; Leonurine; Prehispanolone; Hispanolone; Preleoheterin; Leoheterin; Galeopsin; Preleoheterin; Lavadulifolioside; Verbascoside; Leonoside A and B; Humulene; Leosibirin; Leosibiricin; Preliosibirin; Arginine; Leonurine nitrite; 4-guanidino-1-butanol; 1-octylene-3-alcohol; Trans-caryophyllene.
 Inorganic Chemicals:It also contains many trace elements, such as Zn, Cu, Mn, Fe, Ni, Pb, As, Se, Ge, and Rb, among which Fe, Mn, Zn, and Rb are of relatively high content levels.

 

   Archeology of Motherwort:

 Motherwort is also known by the name Lion's Ear. Motherwort originally came from central Eurasia, but has now spread to all temperate areas of the world, primarily as a garden plant, but also as an escaped weed. The leaves and flowers of this mint family plant are used medicinally. In Chinese herbal medicine, the seeds are also employed. The use of Motherwort is practically the same in European folk medicine and traditional Chinese herbal medicine - to regulate menses and to treat associated conditions. The genus name Leonurus is derived from a Latin word "leo", meaning "lions", and a Greek word "oura", meaning "tail", in reference to the leaf's shaggy shape (like a lion's tail). The species name cardiaca is from the Greek word "kardiaca", meaning "heart". A similar plant, Leonurus heterophyllus, is used in China. The Chinese name for this plant is "yi mu cao", meaning benefit mother herb".

 As its Latin name cardiaca suggests, Motherwort has traditionally been used to treat heart conditions. The ancient Greeks and Romans employed Motherwort to treat heart palpitations as well as depression, which they considered a problem of the heart. Centuries later, Europeans would believe Motherwort helpful for "infirmities of the heart", but also considered the herb to have strengthening and stimulating effects on the uterus, using it to bring on a delayed menstrual period, as an aid during labor, and to relax a woman's womb after childbirth. These uses of Motherwort also correspond well with those in traditional Chinese medicine, which employs another Asian variety, Leonurus artemisia, to treat menstrual disorders or to help a woman expel a dead fetus and placenta from her womb. In eastern China, women still drink a syrup made from Motherwort to promote the recovery of the uterus after childbirth; the herb has a strong bitter taste, so visitors to a recovering mother often bring along sugar as a gift. Europeans used Motherwort as a sedative as well, inducing tranquility in times of anxiety, or when there is restlessness during fevers. Germany's Commission E has authorized Motherwort for the treatment of heart disorders caused by anxiety and stress, as well as part of an overall treatment plan for an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). These two uses are linked by the fact that both stress and high levels of thyroid hormone can increase the heart rate. Motherwort is an excellent heart tonic, and research has shown that it is able to calm palpitations, tachycardia and irregular heartbeats. The primary chemical constituents of Motherwort include alkaloids (stachydrine, leonurinine), ursolic acid, flavonoids (quercetin, rutin), bitter glycosides (leonurine, leonuridin), caffeic acid, essential oil, tannins, resin, beta carotene, and potassium.

 Especially valuable for PMS, menstrual pain and delayed menstruation. Gentle sedative. Helps calm the entire nervous system. Strengthens the heart and often prescribed for palpitations.

 These uses of motherwort correspond well with those in traditional Chinese medicine, which employs the Asian variety, Leonurus artemisia, to treat menstrual disorders or to help a woman expel a dead fetus and placenta from her womb. In China, women still drink a syrup made from motherwort to promote the recovery of the uterus after childbirth; the herb has a strong bitter taste, so visitors to a recovering mother often bring along sugar as a gift.

 One component of Motherwort, ursolic acid, appears to possess antiviral and anti-tumor properties. However, a highly preliminary animal study suggests that Motherwort can both inhibit or stimulate the growth of breast tumors. The alkaloid leonurine produces central nervous depressant and hypotensive effects in animals, and stachydrine may also be involved. The glycosides have a short-term ability to lower blood pressure. Chinese research has found that this herb reduces blood platelet aggregation and decreases levels of blood lipids.

 

   Description,Uses and Effects:

 A perennial that grows to 3 to 6 feet in height. Stems are stout, with 2- to 5-inch long petioled. The palmately lobed leaves have sharp teeth. Flowers are white to pink and very hairy.
 It is distinguished from all other British labiates by the leaves, which are deeply and palmately cut into five lobes, or three-pointed segments, and by the prickly calyx-teeth of its flowers. When not in flower, it resembles Mugwort in habit.

 From the perennial root-stock rise the square, stout stems, 2 to 3 feet high, erect and branched, principally below, the angles prominent. The leaves are very closely set, the radical ones on slender, long petioles, ovate, lobed and toothed, those on the stem, 2 to 3 inches long, petioled, wedge-shaped; the lower roundish, palmately five-lobed, the lobes trifid at the apex, the upper three-fid, coarsely serrate, reticulately veined, the veinlets prominent beneath, with slender, curved hairs. The uppermost leaves and bracts are very narrow and entire, or only with a tooth on each side, and bear in their axils numerous whorls of pinkish, or nearly white, sessile flowers, six to fifteen in a whorl. The corollas, though whitish on the outside, are stained with paler or darker purple within. They have rather short tubes and nearly flat upper lips, very hairy above, with long, woolly hairs. The two front stamens are the longest and the anthers are sprinkled with hard, shining dots.

 The plant blossoms in August. It has rather a pungent odour and a very bitter taste. It is a dull green, the leaves paler below, pubescent, especially on the angles of the stem and the underside of the leaves, the hairs varying much in length and abundance.

 The name of the genus, Leonurus, in Greek signifies a Lion's tail, from some fancied resemblance in the plant. Motherwort is also known by the name Lion's Ear. Motherwort originally came from central Eurasia, but has now spread to all temperate areas of the world, primarily as a garden plant, but also as an escaped weed. The leaves and flowers of this mint family plant are used medicinally. In Chinese herbal medicine, the seeds are also employed. The use of Motherwort is practically the same in European folk medicine and traditional Chinese herbal medicine - to regulate menses and to treat associated conditions. The genus name Leonurus is derived from a Latin word "leo", meaning "lions", and a Greek word "oura", meaning "tail", in reference to the leaf's shaggy shape (like a lion's tail). The species name cardiaca is from the Greek word "kardiaca", meaning "heart". A similar plant, Leonurus heterophyllus, is used in China. The Chinese name for this plant is "yi mu cao", meaning benefit mother herb".

  Uses:  The herb is used as a stimulant and emmenagogue. In Europe it has been used to treat heart palpitations and asthma. Currently and historically it was used to improve heart function. Motherwort also works as a sedative and stimulates menstrual flow.

  Properties:   Pungent and bitter in flavour, slightly cold in nature, acting on the heart channel, liver channel and urinary bladder channel. Pungent for dispersing and bitter for purging, the drug has mild actions of promoting blood circulation to regulate menstruation, removing blood stasis to promote the growth of new tissue. Its slight coldness can clear heat. It is applicable in treatment of irregular menstruation due to accumulation of heat in the blood division , postpartum tormina due to blood stasis, and traumatic ecchymosis and pain. Because of its tropism to Urinary Bladder channel, it can subside edema by inducing diuresis and be used to treat edema and difficulty in urination.

  Effects:   Promoting blood circulation to regulate menstruation, subsiding edema by inducing diuresis.

 

  Medicinal virtues:  It makes mothers joyful and settles the womb; that is why it is called Motherwort. It is of use for trembling of the heart, and fainting and swooning. It may be kept in syrup or as a conserve. A spoonful of the powder, drank in wine, helps women in sore travail. It provokes the urine and women's courses, cleanses the chest of cold phlegm and kills worms in the belly. It helps cramps and convulsions.

  Modern uses:  A heart tonic for angina pectoris, it also helps to lower blood pressure. It regulates circulatory disturbances during the menopause, such as palpitations. It is a sedative, inducing tranquillity in simple anxiety or when there is restlessness during fevers. In this it resembles the action of Valerian root. It regulates menstruation, encouraging the monthly flow when it is scanty, and eases painful periods. The herb is collected in late summer and dried. The powdered herb is given as an infusion in doses Of 2 fl OZ (56 ml). Tinctures and liquid extracts are available from herbalists.

 As its Latin name cardiaca suggests, Motherwort has traditionally been used to treat heart conditions. The ancient Greeks and Romans employed Motherwort to treat heart palpitations as well as depression, which they considered a problem of the heart. Centuries later, Europeans would believe Motherwort helpful for "infirmities of the heart", but also considered the herb to have strengthening and stimulating effects on the uterus, using it to bring on a delayed menstrual period, as an aid during labor, and to relax a woman's womb after childbirth.

 These uses of Motherwort also correspond well with those in traditional Chinese medicine, which employs another Asian variety, Leonurus artemisia, to treat menstrual disorders or to help a woman expel a dead fetus and placenta from her womb. In eastern China, women still drink a syrup made from Motherwort to promote the recovery of the uterus after childbirth; the herb has a strong bitter taste, so visitors to a recovering mother often bring along sugar as a gift. Europeans used Motherwort as a sedative as well, inducing tranquility in times of anxiety, or when there is restlessness during fevers.

 Germany's Commission E has authorized Motherwort for the treatment of heart disorders caused by anxiety and stress, as well as part of an overall treatment plan for an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). These two uses are linked by the fact that both stress and high levels of thyroid hormone can increase the heart rate. Motherwort is an excellent heart tonic, and research has shown that it is able to calm palpitations, tachycardia and irregular heartbeats.

 The primary chemical constituents of Motherwort include alkaloids (stachydrine, leonurinine), ursolic acid, flavonoids (quercetin, rutin), bitter glycosides (leonurine, leonuridin), caffeic acid, essential oil, tannins, resin, beta carotene, and potassium. One component of Motherwort, ursolic acid, appears to possess antiviral and anti-tumor properties. However, a highly preliminary animal study suggests that Motherwort can both inhibit or stimulate the growth of breast tumors. The alkaloid leonurine produces central nervous depressant and hypotensive effects in animals, and stachydrine may also be involved. The glycosides have a short-term ability to lower blood pressure. Chinese research has found that this herb reduces blood platelet aggregation and decreases levels of blood lipids
 


  Medicinal General use:

 Motherwort has a long history of traditional uses in many different cultures. The Latin name, cardiaca refers to the heart, and motherwort has traditionally been used to treat heart-related conditions. These include nervous heart complaints such as palpitations, cardiac arrhythmia (irregular beat), and fast heartbeat. It has also been used as a general tonic to strengthen the heart and to treat cardiac insufficiency. Modern herbalists continue to prescribe motherwort for these conditions.

 Diaphoretic, antispasmodic, tonic, nervine, emmenagogue. Motherwort is especially valuable in female weakness and disorders (hence the name), allaying nervous irritability and inducing quiet and passivity of the whole nervous system.
 As a tonic, it acts without producing febrile excitement, and in fevers, attended with nervousness and delirium, it is extremely useful.

 Old writers tell us that there is no better herb for strengthening and gladdening the heart, and that it is good against hysterical complaints, and especially for palpitations of the heart when they arise from hysteric causes, and that when made into a syrup, it will allay inward tremors, faintings, etc. There is no doubt it has proved the truth of their claims in its use as a simple tonic, not only in heart disease, neuralgia and other affections of the heart, but also in spinal disease and in recovery from fevers where other tonics are inadmissable.

 In Macer's Herbal we find 'Motherwort' mentioned as one of the herbs which were considered all-powerful against 'wykked sperytis.'
 The best way of giving it is in the form of a conserve, made from the young tops, says one writer. It may be given in decoctions, or a strong infusion, but is very unpleasant to take that way. The infusion is made from 1 OZ. of herb to a pint of boiling water, taken in wineglassful doses.

 Both alkaloids in motherwort induce uterine contractions, stachydrine doing so particularly at the end of pregnancy when the nature of uterine muscles changes and Braxton-Hicks contractions begin in practice for labour. This stimulating effect is coupled with an appreciable sedative and relaxing effect, contributed by bitter glycosides, useful for anxiety or tension about the coming birth. This combination of relaxant with uterotonic effects gives motherwort a useful role both as a partus preparator and during labour to facilitate the birth. Motherwort has a reputation for preventing miscarriage and relieving false labour pains.

  Mild general sedative, as a calming agent, and as a treatment for epilepsy: Motherwort is also used as a mild general sedative, as a calming agent, and as a treatment for epilepsy. Scientists have isolated many different active compounds in motherwort. Leonurine and stachydine, both found in the herb, have been show to lower blood pressure and calm the central nervous system in studies using laboratory animals and animal hearts. Scientific investigation into the central nervous system and cardiac effects of motherwort is ongoing with mixed results. The German Federal Health Agency's Commission E, established in 1978 to independently review and evaluate scientific literature and case studies pertaining to herb and plant medications, has found that there is adequate evidence to suggest that motherwort is effective in the treatment of certain cardiac conditions.

  Female conditions related to menstruation and childbirth: Motherwort is also used to treat female conditions related to menstruation and childbirth. The herb is often given to stimulate menstruation when it is absent (amenorrhea) or irregular and delayed (dysmenorrhea). At childbirth it is taken to aid labor, and after childbirth it is given to help the uterus relax and return to normal. There appear to be no scientific studies that specifically relate to the effects of motherwort on the reproductive system, so these traditional uses of the herb can be neither confirmed nor denied. Other Western uses of motherwort include as a treatment for asthma, hyperthyroidism, prevent gas, and treat insomnia. It is also used externally as a douche for vaginitis.

  Treat problems of organs including the heart, liver, and kidneys: Chinese herbalists use Chinese motherwort to treat problems of the heart, liver, and kidneys. In addition to the heart and reproductive uses known to Western herbalists, Chinese practitioners use motherwort to treat water retention, in conjunction with other herbs, such as hawthorn, to prevent stroke and to treat certain kinds of eczema. Some Chinese researchers have reported that Chinese motherwort, Leonurus heterophyllus, can prevent blood clots.

  Formula uses: Motherwort is an ingredient in several common Chinese herbal formulas, including leonuris and achyranthes. In a 1999 study published in the Archives of Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, researchers reported that a traditional Chinese remedy of 21 herbs, including motherwort, successfully treated symptoms of chronic nephrotic syndrome and lupus nephritis in an adolescent girl. The results were promising enough that studies are ongoing to test the effectiveness of these herbs in people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

  Conditions affecting women: Motherwort may be best known for its use in conditions affecting women. It is known to contain chemicals that affect the uterus in several ways, including the promotion of menstrual blood flow. It has been used to start delayed periods and, if taken on a continual basis, it may help abnormal menstrual cycles to become more regular. Due to antispasmodic effects, motherwort may also help to restore uterine muscle tone after the birth of a baby. It may also have relaxing effects on the nervous system, making it potentially useful for relieving both the physical and emotional symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and menopause.

  Treat irregular heartbeat: Motherwort has also been used to treat irregular heartbeat. Although the exact reasons for this possible effect are not known, it is believed that chemicals in motherwort may cause blood vessels to relax and also may exert a regulating effect on the heartbeat. In laboratory studies, motherwort has reduced blood pressure and slowed heartbeats that are too fast. It may be particularly effective when heart rhythm speeds up due to nervousness.

 Motherwort has other cardio - tonic properties, making it beneficial to the heart. Motherwort strengthens the heart, especially useful during pregnancy and childbirth when more stress is imposed on the heart. Motherwort may also be used for irregularities such as arrhythmias and palpitations which are associated with anxiety and tension. The glycosides have been observed to have a short-term ability to lower blood pressure.

  Treat itching and relieve eye conditions: In Asia, plants that are closely related to motherwort have been used in topical preparations to treat itching. Motherwort has also been used topically to relieve eye conditions and as an injection to prevent blood clots. No injectable forms of motherwort are available in the United States. Additionally, products for use in the eye should be made under sterile conditions that are not generally found in the home. Eye preparations should come only from reputable commercial sources.

 

   Common Indications:

 The names of this plant show its range of uses. Motherwort shows its relevance to menstrual and uterine conditions whilst`cardiaca' indicates its use in heart and circulation treatments. It is valuable in the stimulation of delayed or suppressed menstruation, especially where there is anxiety or tension involved. It is a useful relaxing tonic for aiding in menopausal changes. It may be use to ease false labor pains. It is an excellent tonic for the heart, strengthening without straining. It is considered to be a specific in cases of tachycardia (heart palpitations), especially when brought about by anxiety and other such causes. It may be used in all heart conditions that are associated with anxiety and tension. Chinese research referred to in Potters Cyclopedia found that it both reduced blood platelet aggregation and decreased levels of blood lipids.

 Priest & Priest tell us that it is "diffuse, stimulating and relaxing, an antispasmodic nervine: indicated for reflex conditions affecting cardiac function, and as a simple cardiac tonic. It also influences pre-menstrual nerve tension and muscular rigidity." They give the following specific indications: anaemic nervousness and insomnia; palpitations, cardiac weakness after infections; neurosis; hyperthyroid cardiac reactions; P.M.S., congestive amenorrhoea or dysmenorrhoea.

 Ellingwood considered it specific for "suppressed lochia from any cause, amenorrhoea from cold; dysmenorrhoea, with morbid nervous excitability and hysteria." He says it may be used with value in cases of: delirium tremens, typhoid state in fevers, chronic disease with wakefulness, restlessness, disturbed sleep, spinal irritation, neuralgia of the stomach and head, feeble digestion, general debility, chorea, convulsions, nervousness from irregular menstruation, palpitation of the heart, pain in the pelvic and lumbar regions in females.

 

  1. For treatment of irregular menstruation caused by stasis in the blood division of women, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea: it is usually used in combination with Radix Angelicae Sinesis, Rhizoma Ligustici Chuanxiong, Rhizoma Cyperi, Flos, Carthami, and other herbs having the effect of relieving blood stasis to regulate menstruation; For treatment of postpartum tormina due to blood stasis, it can be used together with Pollen Typhae, Faeces Trogopterorum, Radix Angelicae Sinensis, Rhizoma Ligustici chuanxiong, and other drugs with the action of relieving blood stasis and pain; For treatment of pain and ecchymosis due to fraccma, it can be used in combination with Resina Olibani, Myrrha, Squama Manitis, and other drugs with the action of relieving pain and blood stasis, promoting tissue regeneration.

  2. For treatment of edema, difficulty in urination with stagnant heat: it is usually used in combination with Rhizoma Imperatae, Semen Plantaginis, Cortex Mori Radicis, Poria, Radix Scutellariae to subsided edema by inducing diuresis and clearing away stagnant heat.

 Besides, it can also be used to treat skin sore and carbuncle caused by noxious heat, by its effect of clearing away heat and toxins.

  3. To treat amenorrhea (abnormal absence or suppression of menses), dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) and obstructed menstruation due to blood stasis, postpartum abdominal pain due to blood stasis and qi stagnation, etc.:
 So bitter as to be purging and so pungent as to be dispersing and mainly entering the blood system, this herb is good at promoting blood circulation by removing blood stasis and regulating menstruation, so it is a major herb for menstruation and child delivery in gynecology and it is also known as the "mother-benefiting herb".
  a) Amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea and obstructed menstruation due to blood stasis, postpartum abdominal pain due to blood stasis and qi stagnation, etc.:
 This herb can be decocted alone into a soft extract, e.g., Yimucao Liujingao or Yimucao Gao. It is also often used in combination with Chinese angelica, chuanxiong (Rhizoma Ligustici Chuanxiong), herbaceous peony unpeeled root (Radix Paeoniae Rubra), etc., in order to strengthen the effects of promoting blood circulation and regulating menstruation, e.g., Yimu Wan in the book 'The Collection of Proven Effective Recipes'.
  b) Postpartum hemorrhage:
 In modern times, this herb has given better effects when it has been used in combination with purslane (Herba Portulacae).

 

  4. Top treat edema and dysuria (difficult or painful discharge of urine):
 This herb can not only induce diuresis to relieve edema, but also promote blood circulation by removing blood stasis. It is especially applicable to edema with water retention and blood stasis obstructing each other.
  a) Edema and dysuria:
 It can be used alone or in combination with cogongrass rhizome (Rhizoma Imperatae), shiny bugleweed (Herba Lycopi), etc.
  b) Nephritis (acute or chronic inflammation of the kidney caused by infection):
 In modern times, this herb has been effective on the treatment of nephritis.

  5. Miscellaneous:
 This herb can clear away heat and toxic substances and subdue swelling.
  a) Traumatic injuries, boils, carbuncles and pyogenic infections and skin pruritus and eruption:
 This herb can also be used for traumatic injuries, boils, carbuncles and pyogenic infections and skin pruritus and eruption.
  b) Cardiovascular Diseases:
 In modern times, it has been reported that this herb has been effective in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases such as coronary disease, etc.

 

   Remedies,Functions and Combinations:

 Nervine, emmenagogue, anti-spasmodic, hepatic, cardiac tonic, hypotensive.

 Motherwort is used for menstrual and uterine conditions as well as in heart and circulation treatments. It is valuable in the stimulation of delayed or suppressed menstruation, especially where there is anxiety or tension involved. It is a good relaxing tonic for aiding in menopausal changes. Eases false labor pains.

 An excellent tonic for the heart, strengthening without straining. It is considered to be a specific in cases of tachycardia (heart palpitations), especially when brought about by anxiety and other such causes. It may be used in all heart conditions that are associated with anxiety and tension. Chinese research referred to in Potters Cyclopedia found that it both reduced blood platelet aggregation and decreased levels of blood lipids.

  Combinations:  May be freely combined in any prescription, especially with Hawthorn.Leonurus can be combined with Ballota for false labour pains.

 A remedy for the heart and nerves and often prescribed for palpitations, motherwort strengthens heart function, especially in conditions where the heart is weak. A gentle sedative and antispasmodic, it promotes relaxation rather than drowsiness. However, it does stimulate the muscles of the uterus, and is especially suitable for delayed menstruation, menstrual pain, and premenstrual tension (especially if shock or distress is a factor). Motherwort should not be used if menstrual bleeding is heavy.

 Extracts of the plant are sedative, reduce muscle spasms, regulate blood pressure and rapid heartbeat, and tone the heart. Tests show that it treats heart disease effectively by reducing cholesterol levels. Motherwort contracts the uterus after birth and helps calm anxious new mothers. It also treats menstrual irregularities and the symptoms of menopause.

  Heart Disease:  Motherwort relaxes heart cells, which lends support to its ancient use in calming palpitations. Other studies show it hleps prevent internal blood clots that trigger heart attacks. Russian researchers suggest Motherwort contains chemicals that reduce blood pressure. Consult your doctor if you wish to try Motherwort for heart conditions. You may wish to read more about this organ and foods to eat. Heart

  Tranquilizer:   Has mild sedative action similar to Valerian making it affective against insomnia and anxiety.

  Women's Health:   Contains a chemical leonurine that encourages uterine contractions, supporting its use in childbirth and promoting menstruation.
  Aerial Parts Infusion  Use as a tonic for menopausal syndrome, anxiety and heart weaknesses, or for menstrual pain. Add 2 - 3 cloves and drink during labor. Take after childbirth to help restore the uterus and reduce the risk of postpartum bleeding.
  Aerial Parts Syrup   The infusion is traditionally made into a syrup to disguise the flavor. Use in similar ways.
  Aerial Parts Tincture  Use as the infusion. Prescribed with herbs such as hawthorn as a heart tonic.
  Aerial Parts Douche  Use the infusion or diluted tincture for vaginal infections and discharges.
  Seeds Decoction   Use for menstrual problems.
  Seeds Eyewash  Use a weak decoction for conjunctivitis; or sore or tired eyes.
 


   Medicinal Action and Uses:

 Actions: Nervine, emmenagogue, anti-spasmodic, hepatic, cardiac tonic, hypotensive,sedative, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, mildly hypotensive, cardiac tonic, gentle uterine stimulant, mild stimulant to the womb, relaxant, carminative, diaphoretic

 Diaphoretic, antispasmodic, tonic, nervine, emmenagogue. Motherwort is especially valuable in female weakness and disorders (hence the name), allaying nervous irritability and inducing quiet and passivity of the whole nervous system.

 As a tonic, it acts without producing febrile excitement, and in fevers, attended with nervousness and delirium, it is extremely useful.

 Old writers tell us that there is no better herb for strengthening and gladdening the heart, and that it is good against hysterical complaints, and especially for palpitations of the heart when they arise from hysteric causes, and that when made into a syrup, it will allay inward tremors, faintings, etc. There is no doubt it has proved the truth of their claims in its use as a simple tonic, not only in heart disease, neuralgia and other affections of the heart, but also in spinal disease and in recovery from fevers where other tonics are inadmissable.

 In Macer's Herbal we find 'Motherwort' mentioned as one of the herbs which were considered all-powerful against 'wykked sperytis.

 The best way of giving it is in the form of a conserve, made from the young tops, says one writer. It may be given in decoctions, or a strong infusion, but is very unpleasant to take that way. The infusion is made from 1 OZ. of herb to a pint of boiling water, taken in wineglassful doses.

  Medicinal virtues:   It makes mothers joyful and settles the womb; that is why it is called Motherwort. It is of use for trembling of the heart, and fainting and swooning. It may be kept in syrup or as a conserve. A spoonful of the powder, drank in wine, helps women in sore travail. It provokes the urine and women's courses, cleanses the chest of cold phlegm and kills worms in the belly. It helps cramps and convulsions.

  Modern uses:  A heart tonic for angina pectoris, it also helps to lower blood pressure. It regulates circulatory disturbances during the menopause, such as palpitations. It is a sedative, inducing tranquillity in simple anxiety or when there is restlessness during fevers. In this it resembles the action of Valerian root. It regulates menstruation, encouraging the monthly flow when it is scanty, and eases painful periods. The herb is collected in late summer and dried. The powdered herb is given as an infusion in doses Of 2 fl OZ (56 ml). Tinctures and liquid extracts are available from herbalists.


   Therapeutics and Pharmacology:

 Leonurus is an excellent heart tonic, and research has shown that it is able to calm palpitations, tachycardia and irregular heartbeats. It is a specific remedy for tachycardia caused by anxiety, and may be used in all heart conditions associated with anxiety and tension. Treatment should normally be continued for several months. The alkaloid leonurine produces central nervous depressant and hypotensive effects in animals, and stachydrine may also be involved. The glycosides have a short-term ability to lower blood pressure.

 Leonurus is valuable in the stimulation of suppressed or delayed menstruation, and to ease dysmenorrhoea, especially where there is anxiety or tension involved. It may be used to ease false labour pains, and the infusion, taken after childbirth, will help restore the uterus and reduce the risk of post-partum bleeding. The alkaloids encourage and ease uterine contractions. It is also helpful during the menopause. The infusion or diluted tincture may be used as a douche for vaginal infections and discharges. Other indications include diarrhoea. In Germany the plant is used as an adjuvant in treatment of an overactive thyroid gland.
 

  Action of Mode of How it works in the Body:Mechanism

 As its history indicates, motherwort is a remedy for the cardiovascular system, particularly where there are palpitations and when they are aggravated by nervous tension or stress. Its actions are antispasmodic and sedative, helping to regulate the heart, and also acting as a tonic to strengthen weakness of the heart. Motherwort can be used where there is high blood pressure. In addition, in the reproductive system, motherwort helps to bring on a delayed period by stimulating the uterine muscles. Motherwort is also used where there is premenstrual syndrome, especially in early menopause. In Chinese herbalism, its use in the reproductive system extends from irregular periods and premenstrual pain, to a treatment for infertility and immobile abdominal masses. The Chinese properties are acrid, bitter, and slightly cold.

  Effects on the uterus:

 Yi Mu Cao decoction has an excitatory effect on isolated uteruses of mice.Yi Mu Cao injection significantly strengthens the contracting force of myometrium.Oral administration of Yi Mu Huan Hong Dan (a formula with Yi Mu Cao as its main ingredient) promotes uterine development in mice. It can enhance the body's nonspecific immune function, and has significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.Water-based extract of Yi Mu Cao can promote the contraction of isolated human myometrium.

  Anti-coagulant effect:

 Administered to rabbits at 16-48mg/kg, Yi Mu Cao injection can reduce the subjects blood viscosity and fibrinogen. The heffect is strongest at the 12-hour mark after administration.Tiao Jing Yi Mu Pian (consisting of Yi Mu Cao and Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae) can decrease the wet weight of blood platelet thrombus in rats, reduce platelet concentration in mice, and extend bleeding time and blood-coagulation time in mice.

  Effects on the cardiovascular system:

 Yi Mu Cao can significantly improve the ultrastructure of cardiac muscles, decrease the accumulation of calcium in cardiac muscle cells and reduce the content of CPK.Both intra-arterial or intravenous injection can significantly decrease the resistance in cerebral blood vessels and increase the blood flow in the coronary artery.

  Effects on the kidney:

 The damage to the epithelial cells of the proximal convoluted tubule in rats with acute renal failure caused by gentamicin is gradually aggravated as the medicating time extends. However, the extent of damage in the Yi Mu Cao group is significantly less than that in the gentamicin group, indicating that Yi Mu Cao has some effect of preventing and treating gentamicin-induced acute renal failure in rats.Similarly, experiments show that Yi Mu Cao has some effect of preventing and treating acute incipient renal tubular necrosis.

  Promoting immune functions:

 Prehispanolone, an active ingredient of Yi Mu Cao, has a relatively strong effect of promoting hyperplasia on T-lymphocytes activated by Con A, and can strengthen cells immune functions.


   Administration and Application Guide:

  Dosage and Administration:

 10-30g; 60g when used alone.10-15 g., 30 g. for large dosage. 10-15g of the decoction is orally taken.
 Dried herb: 2-4g or by infusion
 Liquid Extract: 1:1 in 25% alcohol, 2-4ml
 Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto 1-2 teaspoonfuls of the dried herb and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.
 Tincture: 1:5 in 45% alcohol, 2-6ml; 1:5 in 25% alcohol, 4-10ml;take 1-4ml of the tincture three times a day.
 Decoct in water or boil it down into a soft extract or include it in pills for oral administration.
 Take an infusion, 200 ml (8 fl oz), twice daily. For the tincture, take 2 ml (40 drops), three times a day. The Chinese dosage is 9 - 60 g (1/2 - 3 oz).
 For external use, mash an adequate amount of this herb for external application or decoct it in water for external rinsing.

 A tea may be prepared by soaking about 2,000 mg to 3,000 mg (2 grams to 3 grams or about 1/4 to 1/2 of a teaspoon) of dried motherwort in about 5 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes. The solid particles should be strained out and the somewhat bitter-tasting tea may be sweetened or flavored with other herbals such as ginger before drinking it. Usual recommendations are to drink one cup of motherwort tea three times a day.
 Motherwort is available commercially as an extract or in capsules and tablets. Frequently, it is sold in combination with other herbals as "Women's" or "Menopause" Formulas.


  Preparations:

 Motherwort is normally prepared by adding about 1 tsp of leaves to 1 cup (8 oz or 250 ml) of boiling water. The resulting infusion is taken twice a day. This infusion has a bitter and unpleasant taste. Honey, lemon, or other flavorings may be added to make its taste more acceptable. Motherwort is also available as a tincture. The normal dose is 1 ml (39 drops) three times a day.

  Precautions:

 Pregnant women should not take motherwort because of its effects on the uterus. Women who have heavy menstrual flow should also avoid motherwort. Anyone who has a heart disorder or who is taking any medication for a heart condition should consult a doctor before taking motherwort. People who are taking medication for thyroid disorders should also consult a doctor before using this herb.

 Patients suffering from blood deprivation due to yin deficiency, profuse menstruation or platycoria should avoid this herb. Parched Yi Mu Cao can be used to remove blood stasis and stop bleeding. However, the total alkaloids (active ingredient) of parched Yi Mu Cao will be lost by 36%.


  Safety: No information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.

  Caution:

 Leonurus is a uterine stimulant and so should be avoided in pregnancy, although it may be used during labour. Stachydrine has the effect of hastening childbirth. Chinese research on L. heterophyllus has shown that decoctions of the plant are as effective as ergotamine in causing the uterus to contract after delivery. Contact with the plant may cause dermatitis in susceptible individuals.
 Avoid use during pregnancy. Due to its actions on the uterus, motherwort could cause a miscarriage. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid taking it.
 Motherwort may reduce levels of thyroid hormone in individuals with overactive thyroid glands. Individuals who have thyroid conditions (low or high thyroid levels, Grave's disease, Hashimoto's thyrotoxicosis, and others) should not take motherwort because it may interfere with treatment.

  Side effects:Are there any side effects or interactions?

 Motherwort has a long history of use without any negative side effects being reported when the herb is taken internally as an infusion or tincture. However, some people break out in a rash when handling motherwort leaves.
 One source suggests that a single application of motherwort extract (concentration not reported) in excess of 3 grams may cause diarrhea, uterine bleeding, and stomach irritation.7 It should be avoided in pregnancy as large amounts may cause uterine contraction and potential miscarriage
 Motherwort may cause drowsiness.
 In single doses of 3,000 mg (3 grams) or more, motherwort has been associated with diarrhea and stomach irritation.
 Taking motherwort has increased sensitivity to natural and artificial sunlight for some individuals. Sunscreen should be used while motherwort is taken.Taking motherwort should be avoided by pregnant and breast-feeding women and individuals with thyroid conditions.


  Interactions:

 There has been little scientific study of the interaction of motherwort and pharmaceuticals. As noted above, however, people who are taking medications for heart, thyroid, or other serious medical conditions should consult a doctor before taking motherwort. The herb has been used in herbal mixtures for centuries without any known herbal interactions.

  Interactions with Prescription Drugs:

 When motherwort is used with prescription drugs that promote sleepiness, the effects of the drug may be exaggerated, resulting in sedation or mental impairment. Prescription drugs that can cause sleepiness include:

 Anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, and valproic acid
 Barbiturates such as phenobarbital
 Benzodiazepines such as alprazolam and diazepam
 Drugs for insomnia such as zaleplon and zolpidem
 Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline, amoxapine, doxepin, and nortriptyline

 Motherwort has an effect on the heart that is similar to the effect of digoxin, a drug used to increase the force of heartbeats and decrease the rate of heartbeats. If motherwort and digoxin are taken together, heartbeats may become too forceful or too slow, possibly causing dangerous changes in heart rhythm.

  Interactions with Non-prescription Drugs:

 The sleep-producing effects of over-the-counter products containing diphenhydramine can be enhanced by taking motherwort at the same time. Diphenhydramine is contained in many non-prescription sleeping pills as well as in some cough and cold products, therefore caution should be used when taking these medications with motherwort because excessive drowsiness may result.

  Interactions with Herbal Products:

 Motherwort may cause excessive sedation if it is taken with other potentially sedating herbs such as:

 Catnip,Hops,Kava,St. John's Wort,Valerian

 If motherwort is taken at the same time as other herbs that also affect the heart, potentially dangerous changes in heart function may result. Some herbal products with heart effects are:

 European Mistletoe,Ginger (in large doses),Hawthorn,Panax Ginseng,Pleurisy Root,Squill


  Interactions with Foods:

 No interactions between motherwort and foods have been reported, but drinking alcohol at the same time as using motherwort by mouth may result in increased drowsiness.

  Additional Comments:   An important herb since Roman times, the name Leonurus is derived from a Greek word meaning lion's tail, describing the shaggy shape of the leaves. The ancient Greeks used motherwort to relieve anxiety in new mothers. Early herbals recommend the plant for 'wykked sperytis'. Culpeper said, 'There is no better herb to drive melancholy vapours from the heart, to strengthen it and make the mind cheerful, blithe and merry. Chinese herbalists use the related species L. heterophyllus mainly for menstrual disorders, raised blood pressure, heart disease and conjunctivitis. The aerial parts (yi mu cao) are also used for eczema and sores, while the seeds (chong wei zi) are used for menstrual irregularities, and as a circulatory stimulant. They are also believed to act specifically on the liver, and are therefore especially effective on the eyes to 'brighten the vision'. A weak decoction of the seeds may be used in conjunctivitis, or sore and tired eyes.
 

  Safety and Toxicity:

 Motherwort Raw Herb:LD50.Mice.IV.31.9g/kg.
 Motherwort alkaloids:Intravenous injection.Mice.LD.50.lethal dose,50 percent death.525~609.4 mg/kg.
 Motherwort alkaloids:Hypodermic Injection.Rabbit.30mg/kg.2 weeks.No toxici effects on food intake,defecate and body weight.


  Scientific References:

  1.Common Motherwort Leonurus Cardiaca Motherwort Herb Extract.