Sources - Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) - is perennial plant that is native to Europe and the warmer parts of Asia, however, like many plants it as been introduced to North America. The herb grows to heights of 2-3 feet with a long red stem supporting green leaves highlighted by small pink to red flower. Both the leaves and the flowers are used for medicinal purposes.

Traditional uses:
Motherwort has a long history, the Latin name cardiaca refers to heart. The herb has been used traditionally for regulating menses and treating symptoms of the cardiovascular system including cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart rate), tachycardia (fast heart rate), and cardiac insufficiency.

Modern day uses:
Today physicians and herbal specialist prescribe Motherwort for the following:

• Mild sedative
• Side effects of epilepsy including seizures and convulsions
• Menstruation complications including amenorrhea (absent menstruation) and dysmenorrhea (delayed menstruation)
• Uterine relaxant following childbirth
• Vaginitis
• Hyperthyroidism

Precautions and/or adverse effects:
Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult with their physician particularly if they are taking prescription or over-the-counter-medications or supplements. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding and children should also consult with there physician prior to taking any new supplements. More specifically, secondary to its potential to stimulate contractions in the uterus women should not take the herb if they are pregnant. In addition, Motherwort has to compounds, Leonurine and Stachydine that have shown to lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients, therefore, individuals who are taking hypertensive medications should use caution in that combining Motherwort may cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Please note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. The information should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is appropriate, safe, or effective for each individuals use. Individuals should consult their healthcare professional prior taking any new product.