SyneraBotanica
Materia Medica

Lamiaceae

Motherwort

Leonurus cardiaca

A bitter, heart-steadying mint for anxiety felt in the chest — palpitations, flutters and the emotional intensity of life transitions.

Also known as
Lion's tail, Yi mu cao (L. japonicus)
Parts used
Aerial parts
Taste
Bitter
Energetics
Cooling · Drying
Sourcing
Cultivated

Actions

Cardiac nervineAnxiolyticEmmenagogueHypotensive (mild)Spasmolytic

Traditional use

Its species name cardiaca reflects its centuries-long role as a heart herb. Culpeper said 'there is no better herb to drive melancholy vapours from the heart'.

Also a women's herb for delayed menstruation, menstrual cramps and menopausal palpitations.

Research

  • Reduces anxiety-related palpitations and mild hypertension

    Traditional

    Long clinical tradition, including inclusion in the German Commission E monographs for nervous cardiac complaints; controlled trials are limited.

  • Cardioprotective activity of leonurine

    Preclinical

    Animal studies show reduced ischemic injury and antioxidant effects.

Key constituents

Leonurine
Alkaloid with uterotonic and cardioprotective activity in animal models.
Iridoids, flavonoids, diterpenes
Contribute to bitter and spasmolytic effects.

Sourcing notes

Easily cultivated perennial; harvest in early flower.

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