Evidence supporting the use of: Chinese Motherwort
For the health condition: Amenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Chinese Motherwort (Leonurus japonicus) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for various gynecological conditions, including amenorrhea (the absence of menstruation). In TCM, Chinese Motherwort is believed to invigorate blood circulation, regulate menstruation, and remove blood stasis—concepts fundamental to traditional approaches to treating menstrual disorders. Historical texts and TCM formularies frequently reference its use for promoting menstrual flow and addressing conditions like amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, and postpartum abdominal pain.
However, scientific validation for these traditional uses is limited. While a few preclinical studies suggest that Leonurus japonicus may have uterotonic and circulatory effects, high-quality clinical trials supporting its efficacy for amenorrhea specifically are lacking. Most available studies are either in vitro, animal-based, or focused on broader reproductive health rather than amenorrhea alone. There is insufficient robust evidence from randomized controlled trials to fully validate its effectiveness for this indication by modern scientific standards.
In summary, the use of Chinese Motherwort for amenorrhea is primarily justified by traditional usage in Chinese medicine, with some pharmacological rationale but a lack of strong clinical evidence. Its role in TCM persists, but those seeking scientifically validated treatments for amenorrhea should consider evidence-based options alongside, or in place of, traditional herbal remedies.
Other ingredients used for Amenorrhea
ashwagandhachaste tree
chasteberry
dong quai root
fennel
fenugreek
ginger
ginseng
licorice root
maca
motherwort
rhodiola
vitamin B6
vitamin D
wild yam
shen-chu
anise
blessed thistle
dioscorea
shepherd's purse
Angelica
Achyranthes
Alchemilla
Aletris
Aerva lanata
Anemone
Asteracea
Agnuside
Ashoka
Abuta
Blue Cohosh
Bethroot
Ba Ji Tian
Cohosh
Clary sage
Cnidium
Cyathula
Chrysophanics
Dong Quai
Estrogen
False Unicorn Root
Iris
Pennyroyal
Other health conditions supported by Chinese Motherwort
Afterbirth PainAmenorrhea
Anemia
Bleeding (external)
Bleeding (internal)
Blood Clots (prevention of)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cardiovascular Disease
Circulation (poor)
Dysmenorrhea
Edema
Emotional Sensitivity
Fatigue
Fibroids (uterine)
Hypertension
Infertility
Inflammation
Menopause
Menstrual Irregularity
Pain (general remedies for)
Post Partum Weakness
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)
Stress