Herbal Supplements For A Healthier Life

Botanical & Identity

Botanical Name

Leonurus cardiaca

Common Names

Motherwort, Lion’s Tail, Heartwort

Plant Family

Lamiaceae (Mint family)

Part Used

Aerial parts (leaf, flower, stem)

Taste Profile

Bitter, pungent, slightly cooling

Energetics

Cooling, drying, calming
Motherwort

Summary & Classification

Short Summary

Motherwort is a classic herb for calming the heart and mind. It regulates heartbeat, eases anxiety, supports healthy blood pressure, and assists with female reproductive challenges such as menstrual cramps, PMS, and postpartum recovery.

Herb Actions

nervine tonic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, hypotensive

Herbal Category

nervous system tonic, women’s health, cardiovascular support

Medicine System

western, traditional european medicine

Active Ingredients

Alkaloids (leonurine)
,
flavonoids
,
iridoid glycosides
,
tannins
,
bitter principles
.

Chemistry & Effectiveness

Active Ingredients

Mechanism of Action

Leonurine exerts a regulatory effect on cardiac muscle, calming palpitations and irregular heartbeat. Bitter principles promote digestion and ease nervous tension. Mild uterine stimulation helps regulate menstrual flow.

Modern Applications

Used for heart palpitations (especially stress-induced), mild hypertension, PMS, painful menstruation, postpartum anxiety, menopausal irritability, and general anxiety.

Traditional Uses & Preparation

Traditional Uses

Historically used by midwives and herbalists for emotional and physical support in childbirth, postpartum recovery, heart conditions, and female reproductive health

Preparation & Usage

Taken as tincture, infusion (tea), or dried herb in capsules. Tincture is most commonly used for quick action on the heart and nerves.

Recommended Dosage

Tincture: 2–5 ml up to 3x daily. Tea: 1–2 tsp dried herb per cup, steeped 10–15 minutes. Capsules: 400–800 mg, 1–2x daily.

Safety & Warnings

Contraindications

Avoid in early pregnancy due to mild uterine-stimulating effects. Safe postpartum.

Drug Interactions

May enhance effects of cardiac glycosides (like digoxin) — monitor if combining.

Pregnancy & Lactation

safe

Side Effects

Rare: mild nausea or gastrointestinal upset in sensitive individuals. Bitter taste may be intense for some.

Scientific & Source Info

Scientific References

– Yarnell, E. (2003). Botanical cardiology: Motherwort for nervous heart conditions. – Blumenthal, M. (2000). Motherwort monograph in The Complete German Commission E Monographs.

Sourcing Notes

Use organically grown, freshly dried aerial parts for maximum potency. Leonurine content diminishes rapidly after poor drying or long storage — freshness is key.

Product Linkage

Used In Products

Menopause capsules

Menopause 120’s

R440.00