Infertility is an inability to get pregnant after six months to a year of trying. Women who have repeated miscarriages may also be infertile. Motherwort, or Leonurus cardiaca, is a traditional herbal remedy that can be used to help support the health of the female reproductive system and to enhance the ability to conceive. Because there are many factors connected with infertility, couples who have problems with pregnancy should get a diagnostic work up for both partners.
Causes of Infertility
Infertility may have a single cause in one of the partners, or it could be the result of a combination of factors. The cause of female infertility can be difficult to diagnose, but various health issues have been commonly found to be associated with infertility. These include irregular or absent menses, very painful periods, uterine fibroids and endometriosis. Stress, hormonal imbalances and blockages within the reproductive system may also play a role in fertility problems.
Mode of Action
The 1976 issue of the "American Journal of Chinese Medicine" and the 1977 issue of "Planta Medica" both reported on studies of motherwort's active ingredient leonurine. The researchers theorize that it acts as a uterine stimulant, strengthening and increasing blood flow and nutrients to the uterus. In addition, Germany's Commission E, which evaluates and regulates herbal medicines, has authorized motherwort's use for anxiety and stress symptoms, based on its calmative effect on the nervous system.
Reproductive Results
Motherwort will not make a woman suddenly ovulate or become pregnant. It is instead designed to be used as a reproductive tonic, an enhancement to reproductive functioning. It can be used to increase the likelihood of conception when used with other methods to help to boost fertility. Through working towards the improvement of reproductive health, conception may occur in three to six months. Motherwort should be taken as a tincture, since the tea tastes terrible and is not very effective.
Warning
Side effects of an excess of motherwort include diarrhea and stomach irritation. Uterine bleeding may sometimes occur. Large amounts of motherwort may cause the onset of premature labor or bring on a possible miscarriage. Women with heart or thyroid disorders should also consult a physician before using motherwort. Because of its anticoagulant effects, motherwort should be avoided by those with clotting disorders. For best results, check with a healthcare provider before taking herbs to enhance reproductive capacities.
References
- Herbalpedia: Motherwort
- Langone Medical Center: Motherwort
- Natural Fertility Info: Improving Uterine Health for Fertility, Conception and Implantation
- "American Journal of Chinese Medicine"; Isolation of the Uterotonic Principle from Leonurus artemisia, the Chinese Motherwort; Y.C. Kong, et al.; 1976
- "Planta Medica"; The Structure and Biological Effect of Leonurine; H.W. Yeung, et al.; 1977
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