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Motherwort

益母草 · Yì Mǔ Cǎo

Eases painful periods and supports postpartum recovery

Properties

CoolingCooling botanicalBitter, Pungent

What it does

Motherwort eases painful periods, irregular cycles, and persistent postpartum bleeding. In TCM, it activates blood, regulates menstruation, and helps clear retained lochia. It's also a mild diuretic for edema and a gentle blood-pressure support. The Chinese name Yì Mǔ Cǎo means 'benefit-mother herb.' Three reviews track gynecological effects.

How to take it

Drink

Decoct 9–30g of dried motherwort in water for 25 minutes. Drink 1 cup, 1–2x daily during menstrual irregularities or for short courses postpartum.

Try motherwort tea during dysmenorrhea or postpartum recovery, with practitioner guidance

Safety

  • Skip during pregnancy. Strong blood-moving action
  • May lower blood pressure. Monitor if you take antihypertensives
  • Cumulative use can cause uterine irritation. Don't overdo
  • Skip with severe bleeding disorders or anticoagulants
  • Talk to your doctor before starting, especially if you take medication

Where it comes from

Motherwort (Leonurus japonicus) grows wild across temperate Asia and is one of the most-prescribed women's herbs in TCM. Its flowering tops are harvested in summer. The Western cousin (Leonurus cardiaca) was named for its traditional use in heart palpitations. The Chinese variety is more famous for menstrual and postpartum support. Three systematic reviews track its uses for hypertension and dysmenorrhea.