Leonurus
Leonurus
Leonurus, commonly known as motherwort, is a traditional herb with roots in Eastern European and Asian medicine. Traditionally, it has been used for various conditions such as menstrual disorders, heart issues, and anxiety, though specific uses vary across different cultures. Scientific evidence suggests that extracts from Leonurus species exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative properties, but the clinical efficacy of these effects is limited, with most evidence coming from preclinical studies or traditional use. The water infusions of motherwort contain varying levels of chlorogenic acid and phenols, which contribute minimally to its overall antioxidant activity. Additionally, Leonurus japonicus extract and leonurine have been shown to promote recovery from muscle atrophy by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and reducing FoxO3a-mediated proteolysis in mice. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Leonurus.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that extracts from four Leonurus species showed varying levels of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative activity.
- The review finds limited robust clinical evidence for Leonurus cardiaca's efficacy in anxiety and depression, with most evidence coming from preclinical studies or traditional use.
- The study found that water infusions of motherwort contain varying levels of chlorogenic acid and phenols, with minimal impact on overall antioxidant properties.
- Leonurus japonicus extract and leonurine promoted recovery from muscle atrophy by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and reducing FoxO3a-mediated proteolysis in mice.
- This systematic review documents stachydrine's multi-targeted therapeutic potential across cardiovascular, oncology, renal, gynecological, and inflammatory disorders.
Frequently asked questions
What is Leonurus?
Leonurus (Leonurus) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Leonurus?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Leonurus; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: The study found that extracts from four Leonurus species showed varying levels of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative activity.
How strong is the evidence for Leonurus?
The strongest finding for Leonurus carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Leonurus safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Leonurus in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Leonurus interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Leonurus in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Leonurus?
Leonurus is also known as: Пустырник.
Is Leonurus a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Stachydrine: A Systematic Review of Its Multi-Targeted Therapeutic Potential in Cardiovascular, Oncology, Renal, Gynecological, and Inflammatory Disorders. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Wild Flora Species from Romania with Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Potential: A Global Perspective-Narrative Review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Chemical Composition and Bioactivities of Turkish Leonurus Species (Lamiaceae) Extracts: Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Antiproliferative Potential. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Leonurine-Standardized Leonurus japonicus Extract Promotes Recovery from Immobilization-Induced Muscle Atrophy via PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling in Mice. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Water Infusions of Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) as a Source of Chlorogenic Acid and Antioxidant Properties. literature abstract metadata