Motherwort
information
  Source:
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 (return
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