Leonurus cardiaca, which is more commonly known as motherwort, has, as its scientific name suggests, been used in alternative medicine as a treatment for heart conditions, including irregular heartbeat caused by anxiety. Alternative practitioners use the leaves, flowers and seeds of this member of the mint family for medicinal purposes. Heart arrhythmias can have serious causes; do not take motherwort for anxiety, heart arrhythmias or any other condition without your physician's approval.
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Germany's regulatory agency for supplemental drugs, Commission E, has approved motherwort for irregular heart rhythms caused by anxiety. However, clinical testing has not established the effectiveness of this herb to treat irregular heartbeat. Alkaloids in the herb may calm the nervous system, according to Health Notes. Leonurine and stachydine, two components of motherwort, may reduce blood pressure and soothe the central nervous system. The herb also contains ursolic acid, which may have antiviral and antitumor properties, although these potential benefits have not undergone rigorous testing.
Studies
Few Western studies have looked at the benefit of motherwort for treating anxiety, heart palpitations or any other condition. A Russian study reported in the November-December 2006 issue of "Eksperimental'naia i klinicheskaia farmakologiia" compared the effectiveness of motherwort with melatonin for improving thresholds of retinal brightness sensitivity and improving emotional states in people with anxiety. While melatonin improved symptoms, changes were less noticeable with motherwort.
Risks
Motherwort can cause uterine contractions that could lead to miscarriage or premature labor. Do not take motherwort if you're pregnant. If you have heavy menstrual periods, motherwort could increase bleeding. Doses over 3 g can cause diarrhea, uterine bleeding and stomach irritation. Touching motherwort can also give you a rash.
Doses
Commission E recommends a dose of dried motherwort 4.5 g, or around 1 tsp., taken daily. You can also steep motherwort in hot water to make a tea. Motherwort tastes bitter; add honey or lemon to improve the taste. Alternatively, take between one-half to three-quarters of a tsp. of tincture of motherwort three times a day, or 39 drops per day.
References
- NYU Langone Medical Center; Motherwort; February 2011
- Health Notes; Motherwort; January 2009
- "Eksperimental Naia i Klinicheskaia Farmakologija"; Effects of Melatonin and Motherwort Tincture on the Emotional State and Visual Functions in Anxious Subjects; K. Ovanesov, et al.; November-December 2006
- Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine: Motherwort
