Chinese Motherwort

Botanical

What is it

Chinese motherwort (Leonurus japonicus, also known as yi mu cao) is a herbaceous plant in the mint family used in traditional Chinese medicine, primarily for women's reproductive complaints and as a general circulatory tonic. Siberian motherwort (Leonurus sibiricus) is a closely related species often used interchangeably.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Postpartum bleeding and menstrual disorders (traditional use)

Mixed Evidence

Small Chinese-language trials and traditional use support its application after childbirth and for irregular menses, but most studies are low quality, often use combination formulas, and reviews note inconsistent findings.

Cardiovascular support

Mixed Evidence

Preclinical work on leonurine suggests vasodilatory and antiplatelet effects. No high-quality human trials support cardiovascular benefit claims.

How it works

The plant contains alkaloids (notably leonurine and stachydrine), iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, and diterpenes. Leonurine in particular shows uterotonic, vasodilatory, and antiplatelet activity in preclinical models. These actions are the proposed mechanisms behind its traditional use for menstrual irregularity, postpartum recovery, and cardiovascular complaints. Human clinical evidence is limited. A handful of small Chinese-language trials have examined motherwort preparations for postpartum bleeding and menstrual disorders, but methodological quality is generally low and most products tested are combination formulas.

Dosage

No established RDA. Traditional dosing of dried herb is 9-30 g per day as a decoction. Capsules and standardized extracts vary widely; follow product labeling. There is no defined upper limit.

When and how to take it

Taken orally with or without food in 2-3 divided daily doses in traditional practice. No evidence-based time-of-day preference exists.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried herb decoction

Traditional preparation, usually combined with other herbs in TCM formulas.

Active alkaloids and iridoids are extracted into hot water; absorption profiles are not well characterized.

Liquid extract or capsules

More convenient but quality control varies.

Concentration of leonurine varies widely across products.

Safety

Generally well tolerated at traditional doses. Side effects can include diarrhea, mild uterine cramping, and skin reactions. High doses have caused dizziness and palpitations in some reports.

Who should be cautious

Contraindicated in pregnancy because of uterotonic effects (it can stimulate uterine contractions). Avoid in heavy menstrual bleeding. Use caution if you have a bleeding disorder, are on blood thinners, or have low blood pressure. Stop at least 2 weeks before surgery.

Interactions

May add to the effects of anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or antihypertensive medications. Theoretical interaction with cardiac glycosides. Use caution with anything that affects bleeding or blood pressure.

Frequently asked questions

Is motherwort safe in pregnancy?⌄

No. Chinese motherwort can stimulate uterine contractions and is traditionally contraindicated in pregnancy.

Is Chinese motherwort the same as the motherwort used in Western herbalism?⌄

Western herbal motherwort is usually Leonurus cardiaca, a different species in the same genus with overlapping but distinct uses.

References

Chinese Motherwort on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Chinese Motherwort on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Chinese Motherwort (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.