Motherwort, also known as Herba Leonuri (Yimucao), has been used for centuries to treat conditions related to childbirth. Motherwort has the ability to act as a galactagogue, meaning it promotes a mother's milk flow. It also has been used as a uterine tonic before and after childbirth. The herb contains a chemical called leonurine, which encourages uterine contractions. Motherwort is also claimed to be an emmenagogue, or an agent that promotes menstrual flow. It has been used for centuries to regulate the menstrual cycle and to treat menopausal and menstrual complaints.

Motherwort is also a mild relaxing agent and is often used by herbalists to treat such menopausal complaints as nervousness, insomnia, heart palpitations, and rapid heart rate. The herb may help heart conditions aggravated by nervousness. Because of its ability to improve mental outlook and reduce the effects of stress, some herbalists feel motherwort tea can help minimize the risk of postpartum depression. In such cases, motherwort combines well with linden flower and ginger tinctures.

1. Eases childbirth
Pregnant women are given motherwort in either tea or solution form during the last several days of their pregnancies. Motherwort helps ease the woman’s worried mind as they make huge life changes like childbirth. Apart from eliminating the anxiety associated with childbirth, motherwort tea also relives painful cramps during labor.

2. Reduces menopause symptoms
Studies show motherwort’s effectiveness in lowering symptoms of menopause in women. This herb is usually combined with other beneficial herbs like black cohosh in order to offer this particular health benefit. Consuming motherwort tea is therefore beneficial for alleviating hot flashes as well as calming irritability due to menopause.

Taking motherwort in excess might cause drowsiness and it also leads to enhanced sensitivity to both artificial and natural sunlight for certain individuals. Sunscreen ought to be applied immediately after taking motherwort.

3. Relaxing effects
Motherwort intake has useful effects on an individual’s nerves and it helps sedate them. This is important during times of despair or sadness. The relaxing effect of motherwort also extends to the various muscles in the body such as the heart. Furthermore, the introduction of motherwort tea into your diet aids to treat hypertension caused by depression. Since motherwort also has powerful tranquilizing properties, it may improve mood and happiness.

4. Alleviates menstrual complications
Women can ease their menstrual complications through using motherwort. Clinical herbalists commonly prescribe motherwort for common menstrual complaints like anxiety, cramps, digestive disturbances and mood swings. The natural diuretic effect of motherwort may also be beneficial in alleviating bloating during the monthly cycle.