Motherwort: medicinal properties, uses and contraindications

What kind of plant is motherwort and its composition?

Motherwort (lat. Leonurus) is a representative of perennial plants of the Lamiaceae family.
There are a large number of species in nature, the most common are cordial, five-lobed, Japanese, Siberian, etc. Official medicine uses motherwort cordial and five-lobed for medicinal purposes. These species have good medicinal properties and a minimum of contraindications. Motherwort grows up to a meter, has a tetrahedral stem with petiolate leaves - large at the bottom and smaller towards the top. The root is branched, fibrous. It blooms all summer with small flowers collected in spike-shaped inflorescences. The seeds cling with sharp teeth to clothing and animal fur, thus spreading over a large area.

Chemical composition

The composition of medicinal motherwort includes saponins, alkaloids, vitamins A, E, C, glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, organic acids (vanillic, citric, ursulic, malic, tartaric), essential oils, carotene.

during the infusion process, all beneficial substances dissolve and pass into the tincture

How to prepare motherwort tincture at home

Alcohol tincture is the most effective medicinal form of the plant. Alcohol dissolves well and draws out all the beneficial substances of motherwort, providing a powerful healing effect. You can buy it at the pharmacy or prepare it yourself.

• 2 tbsp. l. crushed raw materials are placed in a container with a glass of alcohol or vodka;
• closed and put away to infuse in a dark place for two weeks.
• The strained product is taken 30-40 drops, diluted with water, up to 3 times a day before meals.

Benefits in cosmetology

Thanks to its unique chemical composition, motherwort is a good raw material for cosmetics.

For hair

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Dog nettle decoction is especially beneficial for oily hair. For rinsing curls, a decoction prepared from a tablespoon of herb and a liter of water is suitable (cook for 5 minutes, then leave for 3 hours). Dilute the finished infusion with 3 liters of clean water. Rinse clean hair with the resulting liquid.

Motherwort, nettle and oak (in a ratio of 1:2:2) are also good hair remedies; in particular, a decoction of these plants, when rinsed regularly, makes hair shiny and prevents hair loss. Instead of nettle, you can also take burdock root.

You can restore shine and healthy appearance to dry hair using a herbal mask. Mix castor oil, calendula and motherwort tinctures in equal portions, add a little water. This product must be applied to the hair and left for about an hour.

You can also strengthen weak hair with the help of plants. To do this, take motherwort, oak bark and onion peel in equal quantities. For 5 tablespoons of the mixture you will need 1 liter of water. Steam for about an hour. Cool the finished broth and strain. Rub into scalp before washing.

For skin

Motherwort is useful for combating juvenile acne. The juice of this plant has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, prevents excessive secretion of sebum, and tightens pores. To treat rashes, it is useful to add motherwort, chamomile, sage and oak bark boiled in 2 liters of water to the bath. It is enough to take 50 g of herbal ingredients. A decoction of sage, linden flowers and dog nettle is useful for wiping the face, and the herbal grounds can be used as a mask for problem skin. To improve your complexion, you can make a mask of yeast, cream, honey and a few drops of motherwort alcohol tincture. Heat the paste a little by steaming and apply to the skin for 20 minutes. Remove the remaining mask with a cotton swab dipped in milk or warm water.

As you can see, there are many ways to use motherwort in homemade cosmetics. By mixing herbal extract with different ingredients, you can prepare beneficial products for skin and hair.

Herbal medicine occupies an important place in our lives. Many, wanting to protect themselves from unnecessary “chemicals”, strive to treat a variety of diseases with the help of medicinal herbs. And motherwort confidently occupied its niche in herbal medicine. Besides, quite a long time ago.

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Pharmacological properties of motherwort extract

Is it advisable to take motherwort at night for insomnia? It all depends on the diagnosis or condition that caused the problem. First of all, you need to get rid of the cause. If it is depression, then you should take antidepressants prescribed by your doctor. If the cause is an endocrinological disorder, then you need to contact an endocrinologist and get treatment.

If the cause of sleep phase disturbances lies in psycho-emotional stress, then motherwort can help. For sleep, you can take a tablet form of the extract, or you can take an alcohol tincture. Judging by the reviews of patients, it is the tincture that is more effective.

Will motherwort help with insomnia and what is its principle of action? This plant has long been used in folk medicine. Motherwort has a pronounced sedative and hypnotic effect. Motherwort extract includes the following components:

• stachydrine;
• leonuridine;
• choline;
• beta-carotene;
• flavonoids;
• routine;
• hyperoside;
• vitamins A, C;
• organic acids.

Chemical composition of motherwort

The plant got the name “heart grass” for a reason. It has been known since ancient times that this inconspicuous prickly herb is extremely beneficial for a diseased heart. It was used in the form of decoctions, teas, and tinctures. In the modern world, a more convenient form for administration has appeared - in tablets.

Its chemical composition can tell you about the properties of the core in detail:

1. Alkaloids. These are the active ingredients of motherwort. They are also responsible for the bitter taste of the herb. It is alkaloids that benefit a sick heart.
2. Saponins. Substances of plant origin that help “distribute” other substances throughout the body more quickly.
3. Quercetin. An antioxidant that neutralizes the effects of free radicals. Free radicals, in turn, can cause a variety of diseases in the body, including cancer.
4. Rutin. Refers to bioflavonoids, is responsible for strengthening the walls of blood vessels. Due to this, it is successfully used for the prevention of hemorrhoids, varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, and hypertension.
5. Tannins. Anti-inflammatory and hemostatic. Can be used as an anti-infective and antibacterial agent.
6. Glycosides. Can be used to treat heart failure and arrhythmia. Restores heart function. They are used in small dosages, since in large quantities cardiac glycosides can be toxic to humans.
7. Flavonoids. They tone veins, strengthen and dilate blood vessels, and stabilize membranes. Used for the treatment and prevention of atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, allergies.
8. Organic acids. First of all, they alkalize the body. An alkaline environment prevents the growth of bacteria and the occurrence of diseases. At the same time, organic acids treat the gastrointestinal tract. Thanks to them, food is absorbed better. They normalize intestinal function and help eliminate pathogenic flora.
9. Bitterness. Increase appetite, speed up metabolism, improve digestion. Bitters help food be absorbed better by stimulating gastric juice. Increases the overall resistance of the body.
10. Vitamins. They increase the stability of the nervous system, improve immunity, and strengthen the musculoskeletal system. Eliminate brittle nails.

And this is only a small part of those useful chemical elements that the core is rich in.

Motherwort contains many beneficial substances

Use of Motherwort P for other diseases

The use of Motherwort P is not limited to diseases of the nervous and cardiovascular systems. Let's consider the effect of the main component of the drug - motherwort cardiaca - on other organs and systems of the body.

1. Reproductive system. In gynecology, motherwort herb is used to normalize ovarian function, stimulate menstrual bleeding and labor (intrauterine pressure when taking motherwort increases by 41.3%), relieve pain during menstruation, correct the functioning of the endocrine system, eliminate toxicosis and postpartum depression, with fibroids, restore emotional background in the premenopausal and menopausal periods, relief from hot flashes and rapid heartbeat during menopause. (Chan WC et al. “Clinical observation on the uterotonic effect of I-mu Ts´ao (Leonurus Artemisia)”, American Journal of Clinical Medicine, 1983)

For men, Motherwort P will help normalize spermatogenesis and eliminate sexual disorders caused by psycho-emotional disorders.

1. Gastrointestinal tract. Motherwort herb has a stimulating effect on the secretory function of the stomach, an analgesic effect in intestinal colic, and can normalize the process of gas formation, the level of acidity of gastric juice, and relieve discomfort in the stomach and the feeling of a lump in the throat caused by nervous overstrain.

The dietary supplement “Motherwort P” can be used in the complex treatment of diseases of stomach and duodenal ulcers, inflammatory diseases of the mucous membrane of the colon and pancreas.

1. Urinary system. Motherwort cordial is an excellent diuretic. The plant contained in Motherwort P stimulates the functioning of the kidneys, promotes the removal of stones from them, and has an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect. A study conducted in China (Bensky and Gamble, 1993) showed the high effectiveness of the use of motherwort herb in complex therapy for the treatment of glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney glomeruli).

1. Thyroid. Excessive production of hormones by this endocrine gland (hyperthyroidism) in almost 10% of patients is complicated by cardiac arrhythmia, since it entails an increase in the need of the heart muscle for oxygen. The use of Motherwort P in the complex therapy of this disease will allow you to control the heartbeat without directly affecting the production of thyroid hormones. Most plants of the Lamiaceae family, unlike motherwort, contain thyroid-suppressive compounds that suppress the function of the thyroid gland.

There are studies proving the anticancer activity of motherwort (Kuo-Hsiung L. et al., 1988, Nagasawa H. et al., 1990, Chinwala M. G., 2003). Some plant compounds (for example, the triterpenoid ursolic acid) can inhibit the formation of cancer cells and even cause their death (lymphocytic leukemia, lung carcinoma, breast and colon tumors). However, if the tumor is caused by pregnancy, the use of motherwort can stimulate its development.

Motherwort P can provide invaluable help for colds, being a source of natural antibiotics - phytoncides and ascorbic acid. The dietary supplement has an expectorant, diaphoretic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effect, helps strengthen the body's defenses, eliminate toxins, and restore strength after illness.

Indications for use

The herb motherwort extends its medicinal properties and contraindications to all human systems. What does it heal? For what symptoms and diseases is it most effective?

1. The cardiovascular system. If you have high blood pressure, drinking it is useful to normalize your heart rhythm. This is a famous cardiotonic drug in scientific medicine. It is prescribed for myocarditis, angina pectoris, heart failure, cardioneurosis, vegetative dystonia, shortness of breath, atherosclerosis, cerebral vascular sclerosis. The herb perfectly stimulates blood circulation, in addition, it effectively improves blood composition, therefore, it is prescribed for anemia.
2. CNS. The herb helps with neuroses, insomnia, increased anxiety, hysteria, attacks of panic and fear, and relieves neuralgic and headaches. It is not inferior in its effect on the central nervous system to valerian. In addition, the herb can be prescribed in the complex treatment of seizures, epilepsy, and paralysis.
3. Digestive system. The herb is beneficial for gastrointestinal disorders, it relieves pain, spasms, eliminates bloating, and easily helps with intestinal and stomach colic.
4. Urinary system. Used in therapy for edema, cystitis associated with heart and kidney failure.
5. Respiratory system. This herb has an expectorant and anti-inflammatory effect. Decoctions are effective for coughs (bronchial asthma, bronchitis, ARVI, pneumonia, influenza). In addition, it is used as an antipyretic and diaphoretic.
6. Endocrinology. The plant cleanses the blood, normalizes metabolism, acts on the hormonal system, while motherwort is prescribed for various thyroid diseases.
7. Outdoor use. Infusions, fresh juice and alcohol tinctures of the plant are popularly used in the treatment of non-healing wounds, ulcers, and burns.

Motherwort in the pharmacy, instructions for use

Preparations containing motherwort are mostly sold without prescriptions, in various forms: alcohol tincture, mixtures, tablets, dragees, syrups, capsules. You can also purchase sedatives and dietary supplements at the pharmacy.

Motherwort tincture, how to drink

The alcohol extract is a transparent green-brown liquid with a faint odor. The extractant is 70% ethanol. The main raw material is motherwort leaves and inflorescences. Used for sleep disorders, neurotic disorders, neuroses. Doctors also prescribe the tincture for various types of arrhythmia and heart pain. The drug reduces shortness of breath and reduces overexcitation.

It is recommended to mix the medicine with water: 30-50 drops of motherwort for half a glass of water. The frequency of taking the medicine is 3-4 times a day. The duration of treatment depends on the patient’s diagnosis and may be 25-30 days.

Therapists and cardiologists advise starting treatment with motherwort with 10 drops. If no side effects or allergic reactions are detected, the dosage can be increased.

Motherwort extract in tablets, how to take

Dry raw materials or extracts from the plant are included in such tablet preparations as Antistress (Labopharm), Kratal, Sedafiton. Like the tincture, the tablets are recommended for normalizing the nervous system and sleep. Suitable for people experiencing physical and mental overload, or under constant stress.

The advantage of the tablet form is obvious - they are more convenient to take outside the home (at work or on the road). The absence of alcohol makes the medicine available to a wider range of patients: alcohol addicts, pregnant women, measles, children, etc.

For heart rhythm disturbances, take 1 tablet 3-4 times a day, before meals. For sleep problems, take 2 tablets 3 times a day.

Motherwort drops are nothing more than an alcohol tincture. People call it drops, since the dosage is calculated in them. The tincture acts gently, the result is felt after 2-3 days. The effect is cumulative: the longer you drink motherwort, the calmer your soul and deeper your sleep.

Motherwort drops cost literally pennies, so they are affordable for families with any budget.

You can prepare alcohol drops yourself. You will need fresh (or dried) raw materials and some vodka.

Recipe: Grind 20 grams of motherwort greens and place in a dark glass container. Pour in 100 grams of vodka. Leave for 1-2 weeks, placing in a dark place. The product is ready for use.

Do not take before traveling by personal transport, as it dissipates concentration!

Motherwort in capsules

Currently, motherwort is also produced in the form of capsules. They should be taken orally with plenty of water.

For adults, the average dosage is 1-2 capsules twice a day. The medicine should be taken at the same time as food. The duration of treatment is determined by the attending physician.

Dry motherwort grass

From dry raw materials you can brew teas, make water infusions and decoctions. It is used in the same cases as the tincture - in the presence of problems in the functioning of the cardiovascular system, nervous disorders. In addition, an aqueous infusion of the herb helps remove phlegm from the bronchi.

To prepare an infusion of motherwort in water, you need to take two tablespoons of dry raw materials and pour two glasses of boiling water. The mixture should sit for two hours. You need to take it half a glass 3-4 times a day.

Tea with motherwort has a mild effect and is useful even for healthy people. It’s easy to prepare tea: take 2 tablespoons of the raw material and pour 250 milliliters of boiling water. Leave for 10-15 minutes.

Methods of use

There are a variety of ways to use the core. Everyone chooses the most suitable method for themselves based on their individual characteristics. Moreover, there is plenty to choose from. In order for the treatment to be beneficial, you need to know how to drink motherwort correctly.

Decoction

A decoction or infusion is the extraction of beneficial substances from motherwort into water. It is applied to roots and bark. Extraction in this case occurs by boiling the plants and then infusing them for a long time. And the infusion is used to extract useful substances from the above-ground part of the plant (grass, flowers, leaves). To prepare a water infusion, you only need motherwort herb and clean water.

The standard preparation dosage is as follows: pour a large heaped spoon into a glass or clay container. Then fill it with boiling water, about half a liter. Let the tea brew for about 10 minutes. Then drink half a glass several times a day.

Alcohol tincture

Infusing herbs with vodka is another way to extract beneficial substances from the plant. Tinctures have a number of advantages:

1. Convenient to use.
2. They are stored for a long time.
3. Easy to do yourself.
4. Some useful substances are not extracted into water, but only into alcohol.

In addition, today tincture is the most powerful remedy in herbal medicine. You can make it yourself or buy it ready-made at the pharmacy. If you purchase a pharmacy tincture, use it according to the instructions indicated on the package.

To prepare the tincture yourself, you will need to collect fresh motherwort herb and buy good 40% vodka. After collection, motherwort is not washed. It is placed in a glass jar or bottle. The proportions for the tincture are standard 1 to 10. For 1 part of herbs you need to take 10 parts of vodka. That is, for 100g of motherwort you will need 1 liter of vodka.

After filling the container with vodka, close the tincture tightly with a lid and put it in a dark place to infuse. This takes about 10-14 days. You can shake it periodically. When the time comes, filter the tincture from the herbs and drink about 10-15 drops per glass of water or tea.

Powder

This is dried and crushed motherwort. The powder is most often used to produce filter bags. This form is convenient for busy people. You can take the bags to work, for example. Instructions for motherwort in bags are usually indicated on the packaging.

To brew, take 2 sachets, which in total give 3g, and add 100ml of water. After a while, the resulting tea is diluted with water and drunk according to the instructions.

Pills

The most convenient form of administration, which is sold at the pharmacy. Take 1 tablet 3 to 4 times a day. The course of such treatment is determined by the doctor.

Various additives can be used for motherwort tea

Contraindications and side effects

Absolutely all medications have their contraindications. Let's look at the negative aspects of the action of Motherwort. The instructions note: due to the content of substances in the drug that slow down the conduction of neurons, and, consequently, the work of the central nervous system, persons whose production activities require increased concentration and speed of reactions should avoid taking the drug. Taking motherwort will require giving up driving in order to avoid an accident. It is strictly forbidden to use drugs based on this herb:

• People suffering from bradycardia (slow heart rate with a contraction rate of less than 55 per minute).

• Persons with persistently low blood pressure. The property of motherwort preparations to lower blood pressure makes taking the drug extremely undesirable for hypotensive patients.

• Suffering from gastrointestinal diseases in the acute stage (peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, erosive gastritis).

Allergy sufferers and persons prone to hypersensitivity or intolerance to the components of the Motherwort drug should be used with caution. The instructions for the use of medicines based on this plant warn: if allergic reactions occur, you should immediately stop taking the drug and take measures to alleviate the symptoms that arise - administer an antihistamine

Motherwort preparations

The medicinal properties of motherwort are used in the manufacture of the following medications, which can be purchased at different prices in pharmacies in Moscow, St. Petersburg and other cities:

1. Liquid extract in tablet form, for example Motherwort Forte. Refers to diuretics. Helps reduce overexcitation, reduces the number of heart contractions, eliminates shortness of breath in the treatment of hypertension. The price is about 50-100 rubles.
2. Motherwort infusion. Used for the treatment of astheno-neurotic and neurotic dysfunction with sleep disorders, neuroses and in the initial stages of arterial hypertension. The price ranges from 10 to 30 rubles.
3. Grass. It is a dry raw material, the indications for use of which are the same cases as for motherwort tincture. The price is about 20-50 rubles.

Dosage and method of administration

Motherwort and preparations based on it have a peculiarity: the dosage indicated for a particular age is, in fact, conditional, approximate and averaged. Depending on the baby’s diagnosis and the severity of his problem, the pediatrician may prescribe doses that are higher than the average and doses that will be significantly lower.

Motherwort forte

This drug can cause serious harm to a growing body, and therefore self-medication with this form of motherwort should be completely avoided. The average dosage for children over 7-8 years of age will be 1 tablet three times a day. However, with severe stress or complex treatment, the doctor may recommend double doses. And for sleep disturbances or frequent headaches, it is often recommended to take just 1 tablet before bed.

Alcohol tincture

Like all drugs containing ethyl alcohol, this dosage form is not suitable for young children. Therefore, the drug has found its use in water procedures. For children aged 3 years and older, you can take baths with motherwort tincture. To do this, once a day, an hour before going to bed, add no more than 20 drops per 10 liters of water to the water prepared for bathing. You should not take such a bath for too long. Bathing time should start at 5 minutes (first procedures) and gradually increase to 15 minutes. The course of treatment is about a month. Then you should definitely take a break.

Children over 5 years old are sometimes allowed to take alcohol tincture orally. Typically, this need arises if the baby suffers from “restless child” syndrome, if he stutters severely, and also as an emergency aid in situations of severe stress, fear, or shock. The dosage in this case should not exceed one drop of tincture per half glass of warm sweet tea, compote or juice. This drink should be given 2-3 times a day.

Motherwort extract

This drug comes in both tablets and drops. The solid form, as we found out, can only be taken from the age of 8, but the drops are acceptable for children starting from 4-5 years old. The average dosage for nervous disorders in a child is 1 drop three times a day. The bottles have convenient dispensers.

Motherwort grass

A wonderful herbal remedy that you need to have in your home medicine cabinet from the very first days after the birth of your child. In pharmacies it is available in cardboard packs and sachets. Parents have the opportunity to choose which form is most convenient for them.

For newborns, you can make baths with a decoction or tincture of motherwort. To prepare a decoction, you will need 1 teaspoon of dry collection and 200 grams of water. Motherwort should be filled with boiled water, pre-cooled to 80 degrees. Place the container in a water bath and hold there for about a quarter of an hour. The resulting decoction is added to the baby's bathing water.

For the tincture you will need the same amount of herbs and water. The plant material must be filled with water, the temperature of which is about 90%, closed with a lid, and allowed to brew for about 40 minutes. The resulting product is also intended to be added to water. For a one-year-old child, you can add another medicinal plant to the infusion, for example, lemon balm or oregano. For a newborn, one-component phytocompositions are preferable.

Infusion and decoction of motherwort can be taken orally by children from 2 years of age. The average dosage is 2 teaspoons three times a day. In practice, doctors try to avoid such treatment, except in particularly complex and severe cases.

How to brew motherwort for calm

If you know how to brew motherwort to calm you down, you will forget about stress, irritability and panic attacks for a long time. To combat these conditions, motherwort is used both internally and externally as an aromatic bath additive.

To brew tea, you will need one small spoon of the herb and a glass of hot water. Pour a spoonful of herbs into a glass, cover with something and let steep for 10 to 20 minutes. After this, you can drink half a glass before meals. You can also drink it just before bed. To enhance the effect, it is better to mix motherwort with other calming plants such as mint, lemon balm, cyanosis and others.

For the bath, the proportions increase. For 10 liters of water, you must first dilute 3 large spoons of core herb in a liter of boiling water. Leave this mixture for 30 minutes, strain and pour into the bath. The water in the bathroom should not be too hot, and the duration of water procedures should not be more than 20 minutes.

One famous herbalist believes that what he needs grows near a person’s home. When she was traveling, she noticed that near some houses there were literally thickets of motherwort. When she went there, she wondered if there were people in the house with heart problems. The answer confirmed her assumptions - yes, there is. It's worth taking a better look around you. The medicine we need may be just around the corner.

Motherwort for children, instructions for use

a cheerful boy does not need motherwort. Many preparations, even those made from herbs, are contraindicated for children under 12 years of age.
This is what manufacturers write in the instructions for use in order to absolve themselves of any responsibility. However, reasonableness and a common-sense approach to treating a child will help parents avoid mistakes. Motherwort is so safe that pediatricians prescribe it to children over 2 years of age in the following cases:

• hyperactivity, when the baby cannot play quiet games at all, is overly attached to his mother and requires her constant presence with him, often suffers from neuroses and hysterics
• with restless child syndrome, when there is tremors of the limbs and chin, excessive fussiness of movements, increased talkativeness without need

In older children, motherwort helps cope with:

• loss of strength and decreased immunity
• mood swings
• fears
• low stress tolerance threshold
• insomnia
• increased arousal before bed
• epilepsy
• vegetative-vascular dystonia
• migraines
• irregularity of the female cycle in teenage girls
• cardiac arrhythmias
• hypertension

The average dosages of motherwort for children are as follows:

• From 2 years old, add water tinctures to the bath before bed to relax the baby. 15-20 drops per 5 liters of water is enough
• From 3 years of age, brew a bag or a tablespoon of dry collection in a glass of boiling water and give a teaspoon 3 times a day. Be sure to either dilute it or give your child half a glass of water.
• from 8 years of age, crush a motherwort tablet and either drink it with it or mix it in a small amount of sweet tea

Young parents should avoid using motherwort alcohol tincture to their children, since alcohol can affect the formation and development of their body in the most unpredictable way.

Daily norm and dosage

As a sedative or diuretic, motherwort is used in the proportion of 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb per glass of boiling water. The medicine is considered ready after 10 minutes of infusion. Herbalists do not recommend drinking more than 2 glasses of this tea per day. Single dosage – 1 tablespoon of infusion. Dog nettle medications are prohibited for children under 2 years of age. Considering that motherwort is a very bitter herb, the unpleasant taste of the infusion can be improved with honey (sugar) and lemon. As for alcohol tinctures, motherwort in this form can be taken no more than 3 times a day, 2-6 ml.

pharmachologic effect

The herbal drug has several effects:

• sedative;
• cardiotonic;
• hypotensive;
• negative chronotropic effect.

These effects are associated with the rich chemical composition of the plant, represented by biologically active substances (bioflavonoids, essential oil, saponins, glycosides, alkaloids, vitamins, minerals and others).

• During treatment with motherwort, psychomotor excitability decreases, the process of falling asleep improves, and the sleep itself becomes calm, deep and long.
• A positive stabilizing effect is also exerted on the autonomic nervous system, which innervates the functioning of blood vessels and internal organs: symptoms of cardioneurosis, such as prolonged pain in the heart area, are eliminated, as well as a typical sign of VSD - surges in blood pressure.
• The cardiotonic effect is expressed in an increase in the strength of heart contractions and a decrease in their frequency.

Motherwort tincture has a stronger (2-3 times) inhibitory effect on a number of central nervous system functions than valerian-based tincture, i.e. has a strong sedative effect.

What is motherwort

This is a perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family, with a tetrahedral branched stem and petiolate leaves. It can grow up to 100 cm in height. The Latin name of the herb Leonurus quinquelobatus is translated as five-lobed motherwort. This indicates the characteristic structure of the plant’s leaves, which are cut into 5 lobes. Its flowering is not too dense; it occurs from June to October.

Compound

This plant has several other names, such as dead nettle, wild or dog nettle, heart grass and core. In medicine, it is valued for its small list of individual contraindications and its medicinal properties, due to a large number of useful substances. The composition of the plant includes:

• essential oils;
• tannins;
• glycosides;
• vitamins A and C;
• alkaloids;
• flavonoids;
• carotene;
• organic acids;
• iridoids.

Pharmacological properties

The medicinal properties of heart grass are diverse, so it is used in various fields of medicine, provided there are no contraindications. The most significant actions are:

• hypotensive effect – normalizing blood pressure;
• cardiotonic effect - restoring the heartbeat in heart diseases, stimulating heart contractions;
• vasodilator and antispasmodic - relieving spasms of cerebral vessels;
• sedative – eliminating nervous disorder, improving overall well-being and sleep;
• anticonvulsant – eliminating uncontrolled paroxysmal muscle contractions;
• antioxidant;
• hemostatic effect;
• decongestant;
• diuretic effect.

Application area

A unique herb that contains unique compounds of vitamins, essential oils, organic acids, alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids and mineral salts, is widely used in traditional and folk medicine, as well as homeopathy. Motherwort, instructions for use of which are discussed in the article, is used:

• in the treatment of central nervous system disorders (neuroses of various types, manifestations of insomnia, hysteria, vegetative-vascular dystonia, panic attacks, menopausal syndrome, epileptic seizures);

• in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases as a means to lower blood pressure and relieve spasms of large vessels, manifestations of tachycardia and heart rhythm disturbances, prevention of strokes and heart attacks;

• as an analgesic and diuretic;

• to remove salts and waste from the body.

Essential oils contained in the leaves and inflorescences of motherwort help bring the central nervous system into order: eliminate symptoms of chronic fatigue, agitation, irritation, insomnia, increase stress resistance, eradicate vegetative failures and panic attacks. It is difficult to overestimate the use of such a procedure as a bath with the addition of an extract of this herb, which calms an excited nervous background, improves immunity, improves mood and relieves negative thoughts. The content of rutin in the product helps restore blood circulation and strengthen the elasticity of the walls of blood vessels. The effectiveness of using motherwort for prophylactic purposes to prevent the development of angina pectoris, atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes has long been proven. In homeopathy it is used for complaints of heart problems, flatulence and hyperthyroidism.

How is it useful for humans?

From a chemical point of view, motherwort is a combination of essential oils, alkaloids, glycosides, iridoids, flavonoids, terpenoids, caffeic, citric and malic acids, tannins, choline and vitamin A.

Research conducted by the Chinese indicated that the beneficial chemicals usually contained in motherwort reach their maximum concentration during the flowering period of the grass. By the way, in ancient China it enjoyed the fame of a long-living plant. In Greece, motherwort infusions were given to pregnant women to ease the process of childbirth and calm nerves after the birth of the baby. By the way, the Hellenes called this plant “mother’s grass.” In addition, the ancient Greeks used motherwort to strengthen the heart. And in medieval Europe this herb was known as a medicine for cattle.

Today this medicinal herb is known as:

• heart tonic;
• diuretic;
• antirheumatic;
• antispasmodic;
• astringent;
• carminative;
• stimulating menstruation;
• sedative.

Motherwort is considered useful for treating mild forms of Graves' disease. It has antioxidant and immunostimulating properties and has a positive effect on the central nervous system. It is known that the juice of this herb accelerates the removal of toxins from the body, and also improves the functioning of the kidneys, liver, gall and bladder.

But motherwort is best known as a heart herb (the name of one of the varieties of this plant is motherwort). Its extract is useful in the treatment of chronic cardiovascular diseases in the elderly. Some varieties of dog nettle have sedative effects, reducing muscle spasms and lowering blood pressure. Studies have shown that the herb extract slows blood clotting, prevents thrombosis, reduces the amount of fat in the blood, and also calms an overly fast heartbeat.

Herbalists use this plant to treat rheumatism, bronchitis and asthma.

The herb extract helps with thyroid overactivity, but at the same time is completely safe for healthy people, since it does not affect the healthy secretion of thyroid hormones. In traditional Chinese medicine, motherwort seeds are known as an effective diuretic. Other beneficial properties include the ability to speed up metabolism, improve digestion, relieve intestinal cramps and reduce swelling. This plant will protect men from prostate adenoma and problems with potency.

Benefits for the Cardiovascular and Nervous System

Many herbalists believe that there is no other plant in nature that is more beneficial for the heart and nervous system. The alkaloids contained in motherwort have a mild vasodilating effect and also have a relaxing effect on smooth muscles, including the heart. Dog nettle extract has been scientifically proven to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, which is also important for the healthy functioning of the cardiovascular system. Having a mild diuretic effect, motherwort regulates blood pressure. In addition, it inhibits arterial calcification.

This herb has sedative properties, improves sleep, relieves anxiety, and regulates heartbeat. Tea made from it is useful for neuralgia and chronic fatigue. By the way, motherwort has more powerful sedative properties than valerian or lily of the valley. The digestive system will also feel the benefits of this tea. In particular, herbal medicine made from dog nettle improves well-being in cases of indigestion and intestinal inflammation.

Benefits for women's health

To treat female diseases, herbalists use the flowering tops, leaves and stems of the plant. Decoctions and infusions of them are useful for treating:

• amenorrhea;
• dysmenorrhea;
• uterine fibroids;
• ovarian cysts;
• endometriosis;
• postpartum depression;
• PMS.

Special chemicals contained in motherwort have been found to be gentle on the uterus during menstrual irregularities. The same herb, according to herbalists, is useful for women with painful menstruation. Infusions and decoctions of motherwort help fight anxiety, tachycardia, hot flashes, headaches and dizziness, sleep disturbances caused by PMS or menopause. In addition, researchers suggest that motherwort reduces the risk of developing uterine cancer, prevents infertility, improves female fertility, and also eases contractions. After childbirth, the plant extract is useful for calming the nerves and preventing postpartum depression (but during this period, the herb can only be taken with the permission of a doctor, so as not to cause bleeding).

During pregnancy, dog nettle is strictly prohibited, as it can cause miscarriage. Women with heavy menstruation should also avoid motherwort (as it can increase bleeding even more).

Contraindications

Despite the fact that the drugs have a huge number of positive properties, they must be used with extreme caution, as they also have contraindications. Cases when drugs are contraindicated:

Cases when drugs are contraindicated:

• stomach ulcer;
• low blood pressure;
• bradycardia (low heart rate);
• uterine bleeding;
• period after abortion;
• breast-feeding;
• children under 12 years of age;
• during activities that require increased attention;
• pregnancy.

Reviews of tinctures of peony, valerian, motherwort and Corvalol are also available.

During pregnancy, use is contraindicated because the products are made with alcohol, which negatively affects the development of the fetus. The influence of Corvalol is especially harmful. Therefore, pregnant women are usually prescribed simply motherwort preparations in the form of tablets, water infusions and decoctions. However, when using any medicine during pregnancy, the benefit to the mother and the risk to the fetus must always be taken into account.

Therapeutic effect

Motherwort has very different medicinal properties and contraindications for men and women. Its pharmacological action:

• soothing;
• antispasmodic;
• bactericidal;
• sedative;
• anti-inflammatory;
• expectorant;
• diuretic;
• cardiotonic;
• antipyretic;
• hypotensive;
• restorative;
• wound healing.

The herb motherwort has a wide variety of medicinal properties and contraindications, as mentioned above. It also has other healing properties:

• anticonvulsant;
• hemostatic;
• regulating the menstrual cycle;
• astringent.

Features of motherwort in tablets. Composition and packaging.

A lasting therapeutic effect from taking the tablets does not occur immediately, since the substance slowly accumulates in the body and its sedative effect will begin to appear after two to three weeks of use.

Composition and packaging

The range of preparations based on plant extract is varied.

the drug is produced by a company that has proven itself positively by producing high quality products

Motherwort forte "Evalar" - contains more of the main active ingredient (motherwort extract), has a more pronounced therapeutic effect, is enriched with magnesium and vitamin B6, which support the functioning of the heart and nervous system. Release form: coated tablets, which, when ingested, dissolve and begin to act. It is recommended to take motherwort extract in tablets up to two tablets per day with meals. Price for 40 tablets from 210 rubles.

Motherwort P is available in pills of 50 pieces in glass bottles or 100 pieces in plastic containers. The drug is enriched with vitamin C, the filler includes beeswax, sunflower oil and peppermint. Ascorbic acid strengthens the nervous system, the walls of blood vessels and capillaries, and thins thick blood. The cost of 50 tablets is from 80 rubles, for 100 pieces from 120 rubles.

Motherwort premium in capsules - capsules contain motherwort extract, magnesium, B vitamins, L-tryptophan. They have sedative, cardiotonic, anticonvulsant, diuretic, bactericidal and diuretic effects. They have hormonal activity and have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Pack of 40 pcs. costs from 90 rubles.

pharmachologic effect

preparations with motherwort are an effective universal sedative

Motherwort has a large number of medicinal effects:

• Calming;
• Sleeping pills;
• Painkillers;
• Antispasmodic;
• Cardiotonic;
• Hypotensive;
• Anticonvulsants;
• Anti-inflammatory.

Indications for use. Dosage and method of administration

Indications for the use of motherwort are dysfunctions of the central nervous system; it is recommended to take it for nervous overexcitation, increased anxiety, unreasonable fears, and sleep disorders. In complex therapy it is used in the treatment of paralysis, epilepsy and seizures. The plant helps calm the nervous system and normalize sleep, but only in the initial stages of neurosis. More serious central nervous system disorders that develop into psychosis require complex treatment from a specialist.

Taking motherwort will restore good mood and joy of life

How and how much to drink motherwort in tablets is determined by the doctor, depending on the severity of the disease. The universal dose of tablets is 4 tablets per day. Consumption should be distributed evenly throughout the day.

Drug interactions

Motherwort preparations can be taken with other means of cardiac and sedative properties. Motherwort extract enhances the effect of antihypertensive drugs and analgesics. It is prohibited to take it with alcohol, as it potentiates its effect.

Side effects of the drug. special instructions

Failure to comply with dosages and rules for taking motherwort tablets can cause side effects:

• indigestion (diarrhea, nausea, vomiting);
• allergic reaction (itching, redness, swelling);
• dysfunction of the nervous system (decreased mental and physical capabilities, lethargy, drowsiness, dizziness).

How to drink motherwort correctly - you can take medications with motherwort according to two schemes:

• drink for 20 days, take a ten-day break, continue the course up to three times, then take a break of 30 days.
• Take it for a month, then take a break for two weeks and continue the course.

The effect of motherwort on the body

Motherwort, although it is a “heart” herb, actually has a much greater effect on the body than on the heart alone. The beneficial properties of motherwort are used in almost any disease. It is recognized not only by traditional healers, but also by official medicine:

1. Doctors often prescribe motherwort to patients who have neuroses and sleep problems.
2. The core has a hypotensive effect, that is, it lowers blood pressure.
3. Expands and strengthens blood vessels.
4. Restores normal heart rhythm and has an antiarrhythmic effect.
5. Promotes the expansion and strengthening of blood vessels.
6. Relieves cramps.
7. Has a strong calming effect.
8. Stops bleeding.

The question often arises whether motherwort is a diuretic or not. The answer will be definitely positive. The core has a diuretic effect, thanks to which it copes well with swelling of any origin.

Benefit

Having studied the chemical composition of heart grass, many still do not know why they drink motherwort. However, the core is used by both men and women, teenagers and old people. Why is he so useful that he unites so many people around him?

The sedative properties of motherwort are used to treat increased excitability. It is prescribed for panic attacks and anxiety. They drink heart tea to make it easier to fall asleep.

Motherwort infusion is drunk for heart disease. It strengthens, normalizes the rhythm, and increases the performance of the heart. Cleanses blood vessels and helps treat atherosclerosis.

The diuretic effect allows motherwort to be usefully used for cystitis, pyelonephritis, and swelling. The beneficial substances of the core make it useful for people who have problems with appetite. The bitterness contained sends signals to the central nervous system, after which the body receives a signal that stimulates the production of gastric juice. This allows you to increase appetite and normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Due to its anticonvulsant effect, motherwort is used in the treatment of patients with epilepsy.

Separately, we can mention how motherwort is useful for women. Heart herb infusions are used by women to alleviate the symptoms of menopause. The combination of beneficial substances of the core allows you to improve the emotional background during this difficult period and normalize sleep. Can also be used by young girls with heavy periods. Since motherwort has hemostatic properties, taking it will reduce the amount of discharge.

Men will benefit from the core if they have problems with potency due to nervous or mental stress. Tea with core relaxes and soothes, and also eliminates congestion in the pelvic area.

There are certain contraindications to motherwort

Harm

Motherwort is a very useful plant, which is recognized even by official medicine. However, we cannot do without a fly in the ointment. There are some conditions in which heart grass may be harmful:

1. Pregnancy.
2. Children under 12 years old.
3. Low pressure.
4. Allergy.

You should be careful when taking motherwort if you are driving a vehicle. Depending on how you take the motherwort decoction, instead of a slight calming effect, you can get severe drowsiness, which can provoke an accident.

Motherwort during pregnancy

Contrary to some statements, core surgery is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the early stages. It provokes uterine contractions, which can lead to uterine bleeding and miscarriage.

Sometimes a doctor may prescribe heart herb to a pregnant woman to relieve irritability. In this case, you should follow the doctor’s instructions and take the medicine in a strictly prescribed dosage, observing the sensations.

Motherwort for breastfeeding

After the birth of a baby, many mothers are faced with a terrible phenomenon - postpartum depression. In this case, motherwort can help. During breastfeeding, drinking the infusion of the core is allowed under the supervision of a doctor.

You should not forget to monitor the baby’s reaction, because sometimes individual intolerance occurs, from which no one is immune.

Motherwort for children

Children can sometimes be very restless and hyperactive. However, when choosing a sedative for a child, it is better to avoid motherwort. It contains some substances that can negatively affect the development of the child, causing delays. Thus, motherwort should not be taken by children under 12 years of age.

External use of motherwort by children is allowed if there is no allergic reaction. To do this, motherwort decoctions are added to evening baths; it soothes and relieves skin irritations. Kids fall asleep well after such water treatments.

The dried and crushed plant is used for brewing.

Contraindications

Smart parents know for sure that not everything that is of plant origin is safe for the child’s body.

Motherwort should be taken with great caution

It can cause allergies in a child. Before the first bath with this remedy, it is advisable to do a test - apply a few drops of the prepared decoction or infusion to the child on the back of the hand. If no redness or rash appears after an hour, then motherwort can be used.

If you are about to take a product based on this plant internally for the first time, start with a dose that is three times less than the recommended one. If there is no reaction after 24 hours, you can take the drug as usual.

Motherwort in all forms is contraindicated for children with congenital heart defects, severe heart rhythm disturbances, hypotension, acute atopic dermatitis and a predisposition to a severe allergic reaction to plant components.

It is unacceptable to use motherwort for preventive purposes. If the child is calm and sleeps normally, you should not give him baths with such a remedy, since the effect of motherwort “for future use” does not extend, and there is no need for unnecessary effects on a healthy nervous system.

Tea with motherwort

In addition to the wonderful aroma, tea from this medicinal plant has many medicinal properties. It has a positive effect on people with nervous stress, dystonia, and insomnia. Medicinal tea helps women with premenstrual syndrome. Taking the drug relieves headaches and helps fight symptoms such as irritability, increased anxiety, and tearfulness.

How to brew

You can easily prepare tea yourself, even at home. To do this, you need to use the following simple instructions:

1. Take 2 teaspoons of dry raw materials.
2. Boil water and pour one glass of boiling water over the herb.
3. Cover the container tightly and leave for 15-20 minutes.
4. Then the lid can be removed, the drink must be strained through cheesecloth or a fine sieve to get rid of any remaining raw materials.

How to drink

The average duration of treatment is approximately 30 days. It is not recommended to skip drinking tea, because only regular use will bring the desired effect. You need to drink at least one cup per day. This can be done entirely or in parts. It is recommended to drink half a cup in the morning and the rest in the evening. In this case, every 12 hours you will consume half the required amount. It is better to drink the tea itself warm, slowly, in small sips.

Compound

Two companies are engaged in the production of motherwort capsules in Russia - Evalar and Secrets of Longevity. Depending on the manufacturer, Motherwort tablets have different compositions:

• Dragee Forte from Evalar, in addition to an extract from medicinal herbs, contains magnesium carbonate and vitamin pyridoxine, which is why the tablets are often called motherwort with magnesium B6.
• Motherwort P from the Longevity company combines herbal extract, vitamin C, and lactose in one tablet.
• Both types of tablets contain auxiliary components: corn starch, cellulose filler, luteolin, titanium dioxide, water, food coloring.

Motherwort treatment

The beneficial effect of motherwort on the body is used in various folk recipes. Based on this herb, alcohol and water tinctures, decoctions, and teas are prepared. The juice of this plant is also used. Various herbal mixtures with motherwort produce no less effect. The herb is even used externally in the form of lotions, compresses or baths. The main thing is to follow the recipe and scheme of use of each product.

For gastritis

In case of exacerbation of gastritis or stomach ulcers, drink a decoction or tincture based on this plant. You can prepare and consume them according to the following instructions:

1. Steam 4 tbsp with a glass of boiling water. dry raw materials. After half an hour of settling, strain the product using gauze. Drink 1/3 glass before each meal.
2. Grind dry leaves into powder, take 2 tbsp. and pour 200 ml of vodka over them, leave in a dark place for four days. Take half or a whole teaspoon up to 4 times throughout the day before each meal.

For heart

Motherwort for the heart is effective in the form of alcohol tinctures or decoctions. In this case, the following folk recipes are widely used:

1. Mix alcohol infusions of motherwort, valerian, peony and Corvalol in equal quantities. It is recommended to take 30 drops of tincture as needed or every evening.
2. Pour 2 teaspoons of dry herb with water at room temperature (400 ml). Leave the product to infuse for 8 hours, then strain. Drink 50 ml half an hour before your intended meal. Repeat 4 times throughout the day.

For pancreatitis

The plant stabilizes the coordinated functioning of the digestive organs during pancreatitis. To achieve a positive effect, you must use the following recipes:

1. About 3 tbsp. Place the raw materials in a glass container. Pour 220 ml of boiling water there and cover the container with a towel. After 1-1.5 hours, strain the product and cover with a lid. Use 1 tbsp. 30-40 minutes before a meal. The course of treatment is 2-4 weeks.
2. Mix 2 tbsp. peppermint, St. John's wort and motherwort. Pour 700 ml of boiling water over the mixture, cover with a lid and leave for a couple of hours. Then take half a glass three times a day for 10 days.

For hypertension

One of the main medicinal properties of this plant is its ability to lower blood pressure. For this reason, hypotension is a contraindication. If the pressure, on the contrary, is increased, then you can use the following recipes:

1. Mix a glass of alcohol or vodka with 50 g of dry raw materials, leave the product for 2 weeks in a dark place. Use 25 ml up to 4 times daily.
2. Collect 30-40 g of hawthorn, motherwort, mistletoe and cudweed. Pour the mixture with a liter of boiling water, pour into a thermos, where you leave for 2 hours. Strain the product and store it in the refrigerator. Drink a third of a glass up to 3 times throughout the day.

During menopause

Decoctions and tinctures based on heart herbs help improve your condition and get rid of the unpleasant signs of menopause. Prepare them according to the following instructions:

1. Brew 2 tsp boiling water. crushed leaves of the plant. Leave for about 15-20 minutes, strain. For hot flashes, take a third of a glass of decoction three times a day.
2. Mix dry leaves of blackberry, motherwort, hawthorn fruit, lemon balm in proportions 3:2:1:1:1. Take only 1 tablespoon from the collection, which is poured with a glass of boiling water. After an hour, the product can be filtered. You need to consume it 1/3 cup daily up to 3 times. Regular use should last for at least 2 weeks.

During menstruation

To get rid of unpleasant symptoms during menstruation, herbal remedies help. The following recipes get good reviews:

1. Take dry raw materials in the following quantities: motherwort, fragrant woodruff - 20 g each, blackberry leaf - 25 g, cucumber - 15 g, hawthorn - 10 g. Brew the herbal mixture according to the tea preparation instructions indicated above, taking 2 tsp. means for 250 ml of boiling water. The effect appears after 7-10 days of treatment.
2. Take 2 tbsp. flowers of hawthorn, chamomile, motherwort and marsh cudweed. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over them, boil for a couple of minutes, then leave for 4 hours. Drink a third of a glass daily 4 times after meals.

For infertility

A combination of several plants is also used to treat infertility. You can prepare herbal infusions and take them according to the following instructions:

1. Prepare the same amount of horsetail, immortelle, calendula flowers, chamomile, St. John's wort, yarrow, motherwort. Take only 10 tsp from the mixed herbs. Pour 500 ml of boiling water over them and leave to steep for 2 hours. Drink 100 ml three times a day. Treatment should begin 2 months before the expected conception.
2. Pour 2 tsp into two glasses of warm water. dried raw materials, let stand for 8 hours, then strain. Drink half a glass three times a day before each meal.

For epilepsy

The plant cannot completely cure this disease, but it is quite capable of reducing the frequency of epileptic seizures. For this purpose, the following folk recipes are used:

1. Collect the same amount of the following herbs - motherwort, Danish astragalus, curly lily tubers, lemongrass berries, horsetail ephedra, open lumbago. It is better to take 1 teaspoon of each plant. Pour 300 ml of boiling water over the mixture and leave for 15-20 minutes. Use the product morning and evening.
2. Prepare 500 ml of boiling water, 2 tsp. herbs. Mix them, then leave for about 2 hours. Drink 1-2 tbsp before meals. Repeat the procedure up to 4 times throughout the day.

Motherwort grass description, photo

Motherwort is a perennial plant, and not all of its species are medicinal. The “hearty” motherwort has always been common in Central Asia, and in recent decades it has “moved” to Europe.

An adult plant is a fairly tall bush (up to 2 meters). Dark green lobed or dissected foliage is located around tetrahedral stems, the size of the leaves decreases towards the top. Small pink-violet flowers are located on a spikelet. The brown, nut-shaped fruit has sharp teeth, with which it clings to surrounding objects.

Heart grass blooms in summer. At this time, the raw materials are collected - the entire above-ground part is suitable. It is cut off at the root and sent for further processing.

What does motherwort look like?

Motherwort is a perennial erect plant from the same family as mint (Lamiaceae), although it does not at all resemble its fragrant relative in taste or smell. On the contrary, it is very bitter, and its smell is not the most pleasant. In favorable conditions, an adult plant can form into a tall (almost 2 meters), branched herbaceous bush with hollow stems. For some people, contact with the dark green “hairy” leaves of motherwort results in itching and allergies.

At the end of June, small flowers of pink, purple or white appear on the bushes. The flowering period of motherwort continues throughout the summer. As a rule, thickets of this grass are found in damp places, near landfills, on crushed stone and limestone soil. This picky plant can appear in both sunny and shaded areas of wastelands - hence its name. But the Latin name of this plant is translated as “lion’s tail”, since during the flowering period it resembles the brush of a lion’s tail.

Motherwort P for disorders of the nervous system

Motherwort P is an effective remedy for disorders of the nervous system. The calming properties of motherwort were used by herbalists and healers back in the 15th century. Scientists became interested in the medicinal capabilities of the plant only in the first half of the 20th century.

A group of specialists from the Tomsk Medical Institute named after V. M. Molotov, led by N. N. Yablokova, examined 50 people suffering from vegetative-vascular dystonia (N. N. Yablokova “Clinical observations on the effect of motherwort in diseases of the nervous system,” 1941). Patients complained of irritability, increased emotional excitability, tearfulness, increased sweating, discomfort in the limbs, pain in the heart, headaches, and insomnia. Treatment with motherwort preparations was carried out, after which 43 subjects (86%) showed significant improvements in their condition. The above symptoms either completely disappeared or weakened. Most patients with high blood pressure experienced a moderate decrease in blood pressure.

The same scientists studied the possibilities of using motherwort in the treatment of diseases of the peripheral nervous system (polyneuritis, neuritis and neuralgia of the sciatic nerve, radiculitis, trigeminal neuralgia). 20 people with the above diagnoses were examined. After motherwort therapy, almost all patients (except those suffering from radiculitis) experienced a decrease in pain.

The effect of motherwort in various forms of epilepsy was also studied. In 5 out of 8 cases, a positive therapeutic effect was observed, which consisted of increasing the time interval between seizures. The best results were observed in cases where seizures were caused by mental fatigue, anxiety and other similar influences. However, this effect ceased when treatment was discontinued.

"Moonwort P", containing the herb Leonurus cordis, has a wide spectrum of effects on the central nervous system. The drug reduces nervous excitability, has antispasmodic, anticonvulsant effects, promotes the regeneration of nerve cells, and normalizes their usual functions. Its sedative effect also extends to the autonomic nervous system, which regulates the functioning of internal organs and blood vessels.

It has been proven (V.V. Zverev, NIHFI, M.V. Vershinin, D.D. Yablokov, Department of Pharmacology of Tomsk Medical Institute, A.Ya. Gubergrits, N.I. Solomchenko, N.V. Kozlovskaya) that the calming effect motherwort herb is 2-3 times higher than that of valerian. In a number of countries around the world, for example, in the USA and Canada, manufacturers of herbal pharmaceuticals have almost completely abandoned the use of valerian in favor of motherwort. The latter, by the way, is much easier to grow.

Motherwort P does not have a hypnotic effect, but it facilitates the onset of sleep and promotes a calm and deep natural physiological process. A natural dietary supplement enhances the effect of sleeping pills, sedatives, anticonvulsants and painkillers.

Useful properties of motherwort:

The preparations of this plant have:

• sedative properties,
• lower blood pressure,
• slow down the heart rate.

Have a beneficial effect on

• carbohydrate and fat metabolism,
• normalize protein metabolism indicators.

Motherwort herb is an old folk remedy. This plant was studied at the Department of Pharmacology of the Tomsk Medical Institute by prof. N.V. Vershinin. The nature of the action of the drugs is close to that of valerian officinalis.

Its drugs are used as a sedative for:

• increased nervous excitability,
• cardiovascular neuroses,
• hypertension,
• coronary heart disease,
• thyrotoxicosis,
• insomnia,
• vegetative-vascular dystonia,
• neuroses.

It is also prescribed for:

• neuroses of the gastrointestinal tract,
• flatulence,
• spastic pain.

This plant contains flavonol glycosides, mainly rutin, essential oil (traces), saponins, the alkaloid stachydrine, tannins, carotene. The alkaloid leonurine was found in Siberian motherwort, collected during flowering.

Its preparations are similar in action to preparations of lily of the valley and valerian officinalis, but their effects are significantly superior to them, especially in the treatment of cardiovascular neuroses and other heart diseases.

Preparations based on motherwort are used for nervousness, cardiosclerosis, insomnia, neurasthenia, depression, vascular dystonia, and other diseases of the body.

It has an undeniable effect on disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, enlarged thyroid gland, inflammation of the intestines, and scanty periods.

This plant can be consumed in the form of tea to normalize the nervous system. To treat wounds and burns, motherwort is used externally, as it has a strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect.

When to see a doctor

If you are treating a child for nervous breakdowns and increased excitability with motherwort, then you should know that 1-2 tantrums per month for a child aged 3 to 5 years is normal. This is how the child’s psyche “relieves” excess stress. In these situations, it is not necessary to give motherwort.

There are children with, which also affects the child’s nervous system, and Dr. Komarovsky will tell everyone about this in the next video.

In adolescence, mothers often give motherwort to their children, as the workload at school increases, and hormonal changes cause inappropriate behavior in children. If, while taking it, your teenager does not feel relief within a couple of months, if he has severe depression and depression, he needs other help, and medicinal plants are not enough. Go to the doctor.

If, after taking motherwort, the child’s symptoms intensify, he becomes even more agitated, sweating is noticeable, and slight tremor of the fingers is observed, you should immediately stop taking the drug and consult a doctor.

You will have to go to the hospital even after an allergic reaction occurs. The body usually reacts to motherwort with intestinal disorders, skin rash, and in more rare cases, lacrimation and swelling of the eyelids and nasopharynx. Further use of the drug is unacceptable.

How to prepare

This medicinal plant is best harvested during the flowering period, when its juice contains the most beneficial substances. It is advisable to take tall plants (reaching half a meter in height) and with a stem thickness of half a centimeter. Only the tops of dog nettles are suitable as a healing potion. After collection, they are spread in an even layer on paper in a warm but ventilated place and turned over from time to time. To preserve maximum medicinal components in the herb, it is important to avoid direct sunlight during the drying period. Properly dried herb can be stored for 3 years.

What do plant-based tinctures and decoctions help with?

Motherwort is currently recognized in official medicine as a valuable medicinal raw material. It has been used in folk medicine for a long time. This plant treats insomnia, anemia, high blood pressure, heart disease, nerve disease and other diseases. Using motherwort tea you can slow down the aging process. If you add lemon balm, chamomile or hawthorn berries, it will become several times more beneficial.

Decoctions and tinctures of motherwort can quickly get rid of seizures, reduce blood cholesterol, and improve metabolism. Motherwort herb is a good diuretic and is also prescribed for colds, as it can successfully fight pathogens. In diabetes mellitus, motherwort can lower blood sugar levels. For insomnia, grass brooms that can be hung throughout the bedroom are a good help. Taking baths with motherwort infusion can relieve fatigue and sweating, and also significantly improve your mood.

Motherwort preparations have a good effect on insomnia, VSD, gastrointestinal diseases, intestinal diseases, painful menstruation and menopause. They are also prescribed for enlarged thyroid gland and many other diseases.

Reviews of the folk remedy

• I take motherwort for VSD, it also helps with insomnia, calms and relieves tension. Can be drunk as tea. I was very pleased with this treatment.
• I make motherwort tea at night, which helps me relax after a working day. I sleep very well and don't wake up during the night. I get up in the morning by the alarm clock, completely sleepy and satisfied. Thanks motherwort.
• I was prescribed motherwort herb for VSD, as well as for the treatment of nervous excitability, since I was often nervous at work. After the first use of the infusion, I felt an improvement and became much calmer.

Motherwort has a good healing effect for many diseases. But this herb also has contraindications, so you should consult a doctor before using it.

We also invite you to watch a video on the topic of the article:

Determination of the main groups of biologically active substances

Thin layer chromatography

Preparation of solutions

Standard solution (RS) of methyl red. About 0.002 g of methyl red is dissolved in 10 ml of 96% alcohol. The shelf life of the solution is no more than 6 months when stored in a cool, dark place.

Solution of CO Sudan red G. About 0.0025 g of Sudan red G is dissolved in 10 ml of 96% alcohol. The shelf life of the solution is no more than 6 months when stored in a cool, dark place.

About 1.0 g of raw material, crushed to the size of particles passing through a sieve with holes measuring 0.5 mm, is placed in a flask with a ground glass with a capacity of 100 ml, 10 ml of 70% alcohol is added and heated at a temperature of (40 + 5) ° C, stirring constantly for 30 minutes. After cooling to room temperature, the resulting extract is filtered through a paper filter (test solution).

On the starting line of a chromatographic plate with a layer of silica gel on a polymer substrate measuring 10 × 10 cm in the form of strips 10 mm long and no more than 3 mm wide, apply 20 μl of the test solution and 5 μl each of a solution of methyl red CO and a solution of Sudan red G (CO solutions can be applied in one strip). The plate with the applied samples is dried at room temperature for 10 minutes, placed in a chamber previously saturated for at least 30 minutes with a mixture of solvents toluene - ethyl acetate - glacial acetic acid (70:25:5) and chromatographed using an ascending method. When the solvent front passes about 80–90% of the length of the plate from the starting line, it is removed from the chamber, dried until traces of solvents are removed and treated with a 2% dimethylaminobenzaldehyde solution.

The plate is viewed in daylight. If necessary, warm up slightly at a temperature of about 80°C for 2-3 minutes.

The chromatogram of solutions of CO methyl red and CO Sudan red G should show: a zone of pink or red color (methyl red), and a zone of red or brownish-red color (Sudan red G).

On the chromatogram of the test solution, zones of pink iridoids almost immediately appear above the CO methyl red zone (there may be a zone of the same color below the methyl red zone) quickly turning into grayish-blue zones; detection of additional zones is allowed.

Motherwort tea: benefits

• The main property of motherwort is sedative. Studies have shown that the plant has a stronger effect on the central nervous system than valerian. Motherwort is not addictive. Therefore, water infusions with motherwort and alcohol tinctures of the plant are used to eliminate sleep disorders and relieve nervousness.
• Motherwort improves the functioning of the vascular system and heart muscle. Therefore, it is used for angina pectoris, cardioneurosis, and heart defects.
• Regulates blood pressure. Its use is effective in the early stages of hypertension.
• Relieves nervous tension in epilepsy.
• Normalizes the menstrual cycle, alleviates PMS, relieves pain during menstruation.
• Improves digestion and functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Regulates the activity of the thyroid gland.
• Reduces shortness of breath if motherwort is brewed as tea and drunk in courses.
• Helps get rid of unpleasant symptoms during menopause.
• Has an anticonvulsant effect.
• Helps with infertility, if it is not associated with pathologies of the reproductive system.

Video

Motherwort tincture or herb is found in every home, as this plant helps with a variety of diseases and, above all, with stress. Everyone knows that motherwort is similar in properties to valerian and perfectly treats diseases of the nervous system. But it also has other beneficial properties.

Motherwort is a perennial plant - a herb from the Lamiaceae family. It is distinguished by its branched stem and small pink flowers that resemble human lips. The fruit of the plant consists of 4 small nuts.

This plant received the name “motherwort” not by chance, since it mainly grows in wastelands along with nettles. It can also often be found near houses, rivers or ditches. This plant has other names, for example, hairy motherwort, hairy motherwort, heart grass.

Motherwort propagation occurs using seeds that remain similar for 10 years. This plant is most common in Europe and Western Siberia, but some species can be found in Kazakhstan and Belarus. Despite its unsightly appearance, motherwort has many healing properties.

How does it reproduce

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All types of motherwort reproduce by seeds. To improve germination, they are subjected to stratification for 60 days. A simplified option is winter sowing.

Also, seeds can first be sown for seedlings, and then the germinated bushes can be sent into open ground to a permanent place. Planting pattern 40x40 cm.

All types of motherwort reproduce by seeds

Important! The emerged seedlings are thinned out so that there are 4-6 bushes per 1 m row.

Further care of the sprouts consists of weed control. Water only during prolonged drought. Be sure to loosen the soil, taking care not to damage the roots. During the growing season they are fed with liquid mineral fertilizers.

When grown, motherwort is not susceptible to diseases and pests. However, for prevention, you can plant phytoncidal plants next to it, for example, garlic, if there is a massive invasion of leafhoppers, mites, cutworms, aphids, and also to protect against spotting and powdery mildew.

Motherwort during breastfeeding

Although motherwort has some contraindications, it can be taken in most cases without any particular concerns. The period of breastfeeding is no exception. After childbirth, a woman usually experiences severe stress and is depressed.

Most sedatives sold in pharmacies contain substances that are passed on to the baby through breast milk. Most of them harm the baby. Motherwort does not have any effect on the child. The only exceptions are alcohol tinctures. Their strength is 70%; nursing mothers should not even smell them! Therefore, during this period it is better to limit yourself to tablets, capsules and teas based on motherwort.

In addition to calming the nervous system and “bringing order to the soul,” motherwort helps in cases where too little milk is produced. The plant has a beneficial effect on the endocrine system, enhancing the production of certain hormones. As a result, lactation increases and the amount of milk produced returns to normal. However, before taking motherwort, you should undergo an examination and consult a doctor - this could be a serious disease against which the plant in question is powerless.

Please note that during breastfeeding the list of contraindications expands somewhat. Added to them:

• inflammation of the genital organs;
• diseases of the duodenum;
• stomach pain.

Also, do not exceed the dosage. Otherwise, both mother and child will face problems.

Motherwort soothing agent when breastfeeding

What do you need to know?

When purchasing ready-made herbal tea, it is important to pay attention to the composition. It is desirable that there are no artificial colors or flavors. Contraindications and restrictions for use are: hypersensitivity to the components of the collection, clinical depression, which is accompanied by suppression of the activity of the central nervous system.

During the systematic use of herbal teas, you must adhere to the following recommendations:

1. Avoid drinking alcohol and minimize coffee consumption.
2. Exercise caution when driving.
3. It should be remembered that some herbs with a calming effect enhance the effect of sleeping pills and sedatives, analgesics and alcohol.
4. Do not exceed the dosage per day - the optimal daily dosage is 200-250 ml. Abuse of herbal drinks can lead to drowsiness, decreased physical and mental activity, and dizziness.
5. Calming teas are a kind of medicine. Therefore, they must be taken in a course with a mandatory two-week break.
6. For greater effect, drink herbal tea not hot, but warm.
7. During pregnancy and lactation, consultation with a doctor is necessary.

Sleeping pills and sedative teas are not a panacea for nervous disorders, severe forms of insomnia, or clinical depression. This is only an auxiliary means for maintaining the nervous system of an adult in good shape. In other cases, medication may be required.

Source: NeuroDoc.ru

Contraindications for use

Motherwort can cause allergies in people prone to it. Phytophthora, which the plant contains, should not be taken if you have an individual intolerance to the herb.

Motherwort can cause allergies

Note! Due to its stimulating effect on smooth muscles, it should not be used by pregnant women, as well as by people with a history of stomach ulcers, erosive gastritis or low blood pressure.

Since motherwort preparations cause drowsiness, the instructions for their use indicate that after use there may be a decrease in concentration. Do not give to children under 10 years of age.

Features of growth

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Both species grow around abandoned ruins. Motherwort grows scatteredly, in wastelands and fallow lands. Five-legged grows in groups among overgrown bushes, on forest edges, forest belts, and meadows.

Note! Both species are successfully cultivated in Russia. Since the bush is perennial, they try to grow it in one place for 3-4 years. They are planted on personal plots and in farms that specialize in growing medicinal plants.

They thrive on nitrogenous, sandy-clayey soils due to their branched roots. Plants are resistant to soil drying out and are not picky about its composition.

How to take it correctly?

For adults

• To treat headaches and coughs, you can use an infusion of motherwort herb, which is taken before meals 3 times a day;
• Motherwort tincture is prepared from the herb of this plant and 60% alcohol. Take the tincture in the form of 20 drops per glass of water before meals;
• Motherwort tea is very easy to prepare. To do this, add 2 teaspoons of herbs to a glass of boiling water;
• for neuroses and hypertension, use motherwort herb, which is poured with boiling water and infused for 2 hours. You need to take the infusion 4 times a day before meals;
• For diseases of the stomach and intestines, motherwort infusion is also taken. To obtain the effect, you need to be treated for at least 3 weeks;
• Motherwort infusion is taken for menstrual irregularities 3 times a day, one-third of a glass;
• alcohol tincture of motherwort helps with increased nervousness, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and in the initial stages of hypertension.

For children

Motherwort herb has a beneficial effect on children, as they become much calmer and sleep better. Motherwort is used for small children in the form of a bath, to which a decoction or infusion of the plant is added. Such procedures are very useful for children with sensitive skin, as motherwort relieves inflammation and itching well. It is best to take baths immediately before bed.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding

In this state, motherwort can be taken, but only in the form of tablets or infusions. Before doing this, it is better to consult a doctor, since motherwort preparations stimulate uterine contractions. For depression in pregnant women, plant preparations for oral administration are contraindicated. It is better to use pillows that are stuffed with medicinal herbs.

Description of motherwort

In our country, motherwort, or motherwort, is found everywhere. It grows in the Caucasus and Central Asia. There are many varieties of plants in nature. But for medical purposes, only two types are used: five-lobed and cardiac motherwort.

If you decide to collect motherwort grass yourself, you must not make a mistake. After all, the gray motherwort is very similar to the hearty motherwort, it is easy to confuse it, and the gray motherwort and other types of plants will not bring any benefit.

Varieties and varieties

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The genus motherwort consists of 24 species. In Chinese alternative medicine, some plant varieties are popularized as medicinal, while in European countries, traditional medicine uses completely different ones.

The following species are cultivated in Russia:

• Blue motherwort is a low, gray bush with dense pubescence with hairs pressed to the bottom. The flowers are light pink.
• Motherwort Tatarian has a long edge along the top of the shoots. The leaves are thin, dissected, the flowers are purple-pink.
• Common motherwort (motherwort cordial) is covered with long protruding hairs, the height of the shoots is up to 2 m. The size of the leaves from below to the top gradually decreases, the flowers are pink.
• Motherwort five-lobed (woolly motherwort) differs from the previous one in that the leaves at the bottom and in the middle of the shoots are five-lobed, while the upper leaves are three-lobed. The stem is covered with long protruding hairs, the pubescence is increased.

Blue motherwort

In total, 15 types of herbs have been thoroughly studied, and the pharmacopoeia allows the following to be used:

• cardiac (Leonurus cardiaca);
• five-lobed (Leonurus quinquelobatus).

Motherwort tea for children

Many people ask, is motherwort tea okay for children? After all, they are often capricious and have problems sleeping. Sometimes the child is too impressionable and vulnerable, and often cries.

We must not forget that motherwort has a powerful sedative. Therefore, you cannot make a decision on your own about treating a child with motherwort. Only a doctor can do this. He will make a diagnosis, because the baby’s whims and anxiety can lead to serious health problems.

If the doctor concludes that the child has hyperactivity, restless child syndrome, or other problems associated with disruption of the central nervous system, he may prescribe motherwort. But you must strictly observe the dosage.

Until one year of age, it is better not to give your baby motherwort at all. And bathing your baby in a decoction of this herb is very useful. Take 3 tablespoons of raw materials, pour 0.5 liters of boiling water. After half an hour, filter and pour into a prepared bath of water. We bathe the baby in the evening. The child will receive a sufficient amount of sedative through the pores of the skin. A restful sleep is guaranteed to him.

Are there any harms and contraindications?

Motherwort can be taken even by pregnant women and children, as it does not have a toxic effect on the body. But when taking this remedy, you should consult your doctor. It is not allowed to be in the sun at this time, as after taking the plant, sensitivity to the sun's rays will increase. It should not be taken by people who have low blood pressure and a slow heart rate. Also, when taking motherwort preparations, allergic rashes often appear. In this case, it is better to refuse it.

For children under 2 years of age, motherwort is contraindicated for internal use, but baths with this plant can be taken. For older children, it is important to follow the dosage. Pregnant women are better off using plant infusions or tablets, but avoid alcohol tinctures during this period.

Motherwort is contraindicated for people with low blood pressure. Those who go to work every day in their own transport should take motherwort carefully. It may cause drowsiness, which is dangerous when driving.

Reproduction and planting

If you want to propagate Motherwort, you need to collect the seeds in advance and stratify them. To do this, they are placed in the lower compartment of the refrigerator or in a cool cellar for 2 months, the temperature should be from 4 to 6°C.

Hardened seeds are planted in moist soil, and after 5 days, friendly shoots should appear. When the seedlings become stronger, the seedlings are planted in different cups.

They can be planted in open ground at the end of May, when the threat of frost has passed.

You can also plant unstratified seeds directly into the ground. The procedure is carried out at the end of autumn, a week before frost, dry seeds are buried 15 mm into the ground. This method is simpler, but germination is reduced by about 30%.

When planting seedlings or sowing seeds, it is necessary to take into account that there must be a distance of at least 40 centimeters between plants.

Motherwort care

Motherwort is not a fastidious plant. Caring for it is limited to regular weeding and infrequent watering during periods of severe drought.

Also, after watering, it is necessary to carefully loosen the soil around the plants without damaging the delicate roots. During active growth, Motherwort can be fertilized with complexes of liquid mineral fertilizers.

Motherwort is almost not susceptible to diseases and pest attacks, but as a preventive measure, gardeners plant phytoncidal plants, such as garlic, nearby.

This will help protect the plant from aphids and cutworms.

In another article we described a flower called Heliopsis.

Properties of motherwort

Thanks to its sweet aroma, flowering motherwort actively attracts pollinating insects and bees.

Beekeepers plant entire clearings of this plant; it produces high-quality, transparent honey with a white-golden tint.

The seed fruits formed after flowering consist of 30% vegetable oils. They have found their application in the manufacture of paints and varnishes.

In some countries, valerian root was completely replaced by motherwort because the herbaceous part of the plant has a good, calming effect and is also economically beneficial, since medicinal raw materials can be harvested from plants for four years.

Features of use in men, women and children

Motherwort is prescribed to men not only for nervous disorders and increased excitability. The medicinal plant helps with congestion in the pelvis. It is used to treat prostatitis and prostate adenoma.

Motherwort is also useful for women's health. It is prescribed during menopause. Medicines based on motherwort normalize hormonal levels, eliminate fever and other symptoms of menopause. During menstruation, motherwort relieves pain. Able to stop uterine bleeding. Positively affects the emotional background of a woman.

Motherwort for children is used in the form of decoctions and infusions. Young children are not given medicines with the plant, but are used for soothing baths. Such baths can be taken by both infants and older children.

For children over the age of 12 years, motherwort preparations are prescribed for hyperactivity, restless sleep, VSD, attacks of fear and panic attacks, neurotic conditions, and digestive disorders. In childhood, it is preferable to take decoctions, water infusions and motherwort tablets.

Read more about the use of motherwort in children in this article. We talked about the use of the plant for adults here.