Yi Mu Cao
Leonurus cardiaca
Synonyms: Leonurus neglectus, Leonurus trilobatus, Leonurus cardiaca var. rotundifolia, Leonurus crispus, Leonurus cardiaca var. hirtella, Leonurus aconitifolius, Leonurus illyricus, Cardiaca stachys, Cardiaca trilobata, Leonurus cardiaca var. capitatus, Cardiaca vulgaris, Leonurus cardiaca var. intermedius, Leonurus cardiaca var. adscendens, Leonurus cardiaca subsp. intermedius, Leonurus glabra, Cardiaca glabra, Cardiaca crispa, Leonurus discolor, Leonurus lacerus, Stachys triloba, Leonurus ruderalis
โฏ TCM Properties
Invigorates the Blood, dispels Stasis, regulates menstruation and reduces masses; Promotes urination and reduces swelling and edema; Clears Heat and resolves toxicity
Western Herbalism Properties
Gallery
Botanical Description
Leonurus cardiaca is a perennial herb in the mint family (Lamiaceae), growing 60-120 cm tall. Stems are square, hollow, erect, and branched, with long spreading hairs. Leaves are opposite, palmately 3-5 lobed, deeply toothed, dark green above and pale beneath. The small, two-lipped, pale pink to white flowers are borne in dense whorls in the leaf axils on the upper stems. The calyx has 5 sharp, spiny teeth. Seeds are small, dark brown, and angular. The plant has a bitter taste and unpleasant odor.
Roadsides, waste places, woodland edges, and disturbed habitats; native to Central Asia and southeastern Europe, widely naturalized throughout Europe and North America.
Leonurus cardiaca is a widespread and adaptable plant that has naturalized across much of the temperate world. It is considered a weed in many areas. No conservation concerns.
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Yi Mu Cao (Chinese motherwort herb) is a cool, slightly pungent herb known as the primary gynecological herb in Chinese medicine. It invigorates Blood and regulates menstruation to address amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, postpartum abdominal pain from Blood stasis, and irregular menstrual cycles. It promotes urination and reduces edema โ particularly postpartum swelling. Its simultaneous Blood-activating and diuretic action makes it useful in both reproductive and fluid-retention conditions, and it is among the most frequently used herbs in women's health formulas.
Chemistry & External Identifiers
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.