Leonurus

Leonurus

Leonurus, a genus of plants including Leonurus cardiaca (commonly known as motherwort) and Leonurus japonicus, is traditionally used in various herbal practices. Motherwort, for instance, has been utilized in Chinese medicine for centuries, often to address issues related to the cardiovascular system and women's health. However, traditional uses for other species within this genus are not well-documented. Scientific evidence suggests that extracts from Leonurus species exhibit varying levels of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative activity, with some studies indicating potential benefits in muscle recovery. While there is limited robust clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of Leonurus cardiaca in anxiety and depression, preclinical research and traditional use provide some basis for its application in these areas. Safety profiles for Leonurus appear to be favorable; no major issues have been recorded. Similarly, there are currently no reported drug interactions associated with this plant.

At a glance
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. D PMID
  • 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. D PMID
  • The study found that water infusions of motherwort contain varying levels of chlorogenic acid and phenols, with minimal impact on overall antioxidant properties. D PMID
  • Leonurus japonicus extract and leonurine promoted recovery from muscle atrophy by activating the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and reducing FoxO3a-mediated proteolysis in mice. D PMID
  • This systematic review documents stachydrine's multi-targeted therapeutic potential across cardiovascular, oncology, renal, gynecological, and inflammatory disorders. A PMID

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

  1. T2 Stachydrine: A Systematic Review of Its Multi-Targeted Therapeutic Potential in Cardiovascular, Oncology, Renal, Gynecological, and Inflammatory Disorders. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Wild Flora Species from Romania with Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Potential: A Global Perspective-Narrative Review. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Chemical Composition and Bioactivities of Turkish Leonurus Species (Lamiaceae) Extracts: Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Antiproliferative Potential. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Leonurine-Standardized Leonurus japonicus Extract Promotes Recovery from Immobilization-Induced Muscle Atrophy via PI3K/Akt/mTOR Signaling in Mice. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Water Infusions of Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) as a Source of Chlorogenic Acid and Antioxidant Properties. literature abstract metadata