What are the benefits, effects, and contraindications of motherwort?
Jul 15, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the effects and benefits of Leonurus (Yi Mu Cao) include anticoagulation and beautifying the skin. Contraindications include avoidance by pregnant women and individuals with excessive menstrual bleeding. Leonurus can inhibit platelet aggregation, platelet thrombus formation, fibrin thrombus formation, and red blood cell aggregation. It also shows significant inhibitory effects on elevated platelet aggregation activity caused by extensive burns.
Generally, the benefits and effects of motherwort (Leonurus japonicus) include anticoagulation, beautifying the skin, and protecting the brain. Contraindications include avoiding use during pregnancy, in individuals with excessive menstrual bleeding, and long-term or high-dose usage. Specific details are as follows:
I. Benefits
1. Anticoagulant effect
Motherwort inhibits platelet aggregation, platelet thrombus formation, fibrin thrombus formation, and red blood cell aggregation. It also significantly suppresses elevated platelet aggregation activity caused by extensive burns.
2. Skin beautification
Motherwort promotes blood circulation and regulates menstruation, while also tonifying qi and blood. Regular, moderate use plays an important role in skin beautification, making the skin smoother, softer, more elastic, reducing wrinkles, and improving overall complexion.
3. Brain protection
The alkaloids in motherwort can reduce oxygen consumption in brain cells, enhance neuronal activity, prevent neuronal death, and thus protect the brain.
II. Contraindications
1. Contraindicated in pregnancy
Although motherwort is widely used for gynecological conditions, pregnant women should avoid its use to prevent potential adverse effects on the fetus.
2. Excessive menstrual bleeding
While motherwort is effective in regulating menstrual disorders, individuals experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding should avoid excessive use, as it may exacerbate bleeding symptoms.
3. Not for long-term or high-dose use
High doses or prolonged use of motherwort may lead to drug accumulation, impair metabolic and physiological functions, and cause adverse reactions such as allergies or cardiac arrest.
In addition to the above benefits, motherwort may also enhance immunity and protect kidney function. Individuals with allergic tendencies should use motherwort cautiously. Patients experiencing discomfort should seek medical attention promptly and follow professional medical guidance for proper treatment to support recovery.
