Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly in European and Chinese systems, to help with nervousness, anxiety, and symptoms related to stress. Historically, herbalists have used motherwort as a calming agent or mild sedative for individuals experiencing palpitations, restlessness, or anxiety, especially when these symptoms are linked to hormonal changes, such as those in menopause or postpartum periods. Folk medicine traditions recommended motherwort in teas or tinctures, often in combination with other calming herbs like valerian or lemon balm, to “strengthen the heart” and “settle the nerves.”

From a scientific perspective, the evidence supporting motherwort’s use for anxiety disorders is limited and generally of low quality. A few animal studies suggest that extracts of motherwort may have mild sedative or anxiolytic effects, potentially due to its alkaloid and flavonoid content, which could modulate neurotransmitter systems. However, there are very few well-designed human clinical trials assessing its efficacy specifically for anxiety disorders. Most available studies are small, non-randomized, or focus on related symptoms (such as palpitations) rather than formal psychiatric diagnoses. As such, the use of motherwort for anxiety is best characterized as primarily traditional, with a modest but unconfirmed evidence base. Anyone considering its use should consult with a healthcare provider, especially given potential interactions with other medications.

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