MOTHERWORT: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiac) is a plant that grows about 1 meter in height. The parts that grow above the ground are used to make medicine.

Motherwort has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It might also help fight bacteria and stimulate the uterus.

People use motherwort to prevent or stop bleeding. It is also used for heart failure, symptoms of menopause, high blood pressure, wound healing, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Effective for

Bleeding. Injecting motherwort into the muscle or uterus might help reduce bleeding from childbirth, caesarian section (c-section), and abortion surgery. But higher quality research is needed to confirm this.

There is interest in using motherwort for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Motherwort is possibly safe when used as an extract in soybean oil for up to 28 days. Side effects might include diarrhea and upset stomach.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Motherwort is possibly safe when used as an extract in soybean oil for up to 28 days. Side effects might include diarrhea and upset stomach.

Pregnancy: Taking motherwort by mouth during pregnancy is likely unsafe. Motherwort can stimulate the uterus and might cause a miscarriage.

Breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if motherwort is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

Sedative medications (CNS depressants) interacts with MOTHERWORT
Motherwort might cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Some medications, called sedatives, can also cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Taking motherwort with sedative medications might cause breathing problems and/or too much sleepiness.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of motherwort might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.

View References

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