Motherwort Herb Extract
Also known as: Leonurus japonicus, Motherwort, Lion's Tail, Lion's Ear, Leonurus cardiaca
Overview
Motherwort is an herbal supplement derived from the aerial parts of plants in the *Leonurus* genus, primarily *Leonurus cardiaca* and *Leonurus japonicus*. It has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for addressing gynecological and cardiovascular conditions. The active ingredients, including alkaloids like leonurine and stachydrine, are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. Motherwort is primarily used to prevent postpartum and postabortion hemorrhage and to manage heart conditions such as irregular heartbeat and anxiety-related heart symptoms. Research suggests that motherwort may stimulate uterine contractions and improve hemostatic outcomes. It is available in various forms, including injections, teas, and extracts. While research on motherwort injection is moderately mature, the overall quality of evidence is often rated as low due to methodological limitations in studies.
Benefits
Motherwort, particularly in injection form, has demonstrated benefits in reducing blood loss following abortion or cesarean section when used in conjunction with oxytocin. Meta-analyses indicate a significant reduction in blood loss within 2 and 24 hours post-procedure. Studies also suggest a reduced risk of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and a shorter duration of blood loss. For instance, one meta-analysis reported a reduced risk of PPH events (RR 0.29, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.39) and lower blood loss (MD -55.06 ml, 95% CI -84.06 to -26.06 within 2 hours). Additionally, motherwort may aid in quicker recovery of normal menstruation after abortion and improve endometrial thickness. Beyond its gynecological applications, motherwort exhibits antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties, potentially offering broader health benefits. The evidence quality, however, is generally low, necessitating cautious interpretation of these findings.
How it works
Motherwort's mechanism of action primarily involves stimulating contractions of uterine smooth muscle through its active alkaloids, such as leonurine and stachydrine. This action promotes hemostasis by facilitating uterine contraction and constricting uterine spiral vessels, thereby reducing bleeding. Motherwort interacts directly with the uterine smooth muscle, enhancing its contractility. Additionally, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to systemic effects. When administered via injection, motherwort ensures direct delivery to target tissues, bypassing potential absorption issues associated with oral administration. This targeted action makes it effective in managing postpartum and postabortion hemorrhage.
Side effects
Motherwort injection is generally considered safe when administered as directed, although the quality of evidence supporting its safety is low. Reported adverse events in studies have been infrequent and generally mild. Due to limited data, common and uncommon side effects are not well-documented. Caution is advised when combining motherwort with other uterotonic agents, although no significant interactions with oxytocin have been reported. Contraindications are not well-established, but it should be used under medical supervision, particularly in pregnant or postpartum women. The safety of motherwort in populations beyond women undergoing cesarean section or abortion is not well-studied. Further research is needed to fully characterize its safety profile and potential adverse effects.
Dosage
The optimal dosage of motherwort is not clearly established, and it is typically administered in clinical settings via injection. Studies often use motherwort injection in conjunction with intravenous oxytocin during or immediately after cesarean section or abortion to prevent hemorrhage. There is no established maximum safe dose, and it is generally used as directed by healthcare providers. The intramuscular or intravenous routes ensure direct delivery to the target tissues. Due to the lack of comprehensive data, it is crucial to adhere to medical guidance when using motherwort, especially in injectable forms. More research is needed to define specific dosage ranges and safety thresholds.
FAQs
Is motherwort injection safe?
Motherwort injection is generally considered safe when used as directed by healthcare providers, but more high-quality evidence is needed to confirm its long-term safety.
When should motherwort injection be administered?
It should be administered during or immediately after cesarean section or abortion under medical supervision to prevent hemorrhage.
What are the expected results of using motherwort injection?
It can significantly reduce blood loss and the risk of postpartum hemorrhage when used in conjunction with standard medical care.
Can motherwort replace standard medical care?
No, it is not a substitute for standard medical care and should be used under the guidance of healthcare providers.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.916665/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of nine trials (1,675 participants) found that motherwort injection combined with oxytocin reduced blood loss and the duration of blood loss compared to oxytocin alone in women with induced abortion. However, the quality of evidence was rated as very low to low due to methodological limitations, according to the GRADE methodology.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.859495/full – This active-controlled, propensity-score matched cohort study examined the effects of motherwort injection versus intramuscular oxytocin for preventing postpartum hemorrhage in women undergoing cesarean section. The study found that motherwort injection added to IV oxytocin reduced the risk of postpartum hemorrhage compared to IM oxytocin. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to examine robustness, but the study had limitations due to the real-world setting.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24841965/ – This study investigates the chemical composition and anti-inflammatory effects of Leonurus japonicus. It identifies several compounds and demonstrates their potential to inhibit inflammatory responses, suggesting a possible mechanism for the herb's traditional uses in treating inflammatory conditions.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2019/1803876 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 37 RCTs (7,887 participants) assessed the use of motherwort injection for preventing postpartum hemorrhage in women with vaginal delivery. The study found that motherwort injection combined with oxytocin reduced blood loss and PPH events compared to oxytocin alone, but the included trials had moderate to high risk of bias, and the GRADE methodology rated the evidence as very low to low quality.
- https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/motherwort.htm – This resource provides general information on motherwort, including its uses, potential benefits, and safety considerations. It highlights that motherwort has been traditionally used for heart conditions, anxiety, and menstrual problems, but emphasizes the need for more scientific evidence to support these uses.