Motherwort (Yimucao)-Leonurus heterophyllus Sweet

Motherwort (Yimucao)

Pharmaceutical Name: Herba Leonuri

Botanical Name: Leonurus heterophyllus Sweet

Common Name: Motherwort

Source of Earliest Record: Shennong Bencao Jing

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations: The entire plant is gathered in May or June, when it is flowering. It is then dried in the sun.

Properties & Taste: Pungent, bitter and slightly cold.

Meridians: Heart, liver and urinary bladder.

Functions: 1. To invigorate blood and move stagnation; 2. To promote urination and reduce edema

Indications & Combinations:

1. Blood stagnation manifested as irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, postpartum abdominal pain and swelling and pain due to external injuries. Motherwort (Yimucao) is used with Chinese angelica root (Danggui), Chuanxiong rhizome (Chuanxiong) and Red peony (Chishao). Motherwort (Yimucao) may also be used alone.

2. Dysuria or edema. Motherwort (Yimucao) is used with fresh Imperata rhizome (Baimaogen).

Dosage: 10-15 g.

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