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Yi Mu Cao (益母草), Chinese motherwort, invigorates the blood and regulates menstruation (a principal gynaecological and postpartum herb), and promotes urination to reduce oedema.
Latin / Pharmaceutical Name
Leonurus japonicus (Herba Leonuri)
Common English Name
Chinese motherwort
Taste
Acrid, bitter
Temperature
Slightly cold
Channels Entered
Liver, Pericardium, Bladder
Actions & Functions
- Invigorates the blood and regulates menstruation
- Promotes urination and reduces oedema
- Clears heat and resolves toxicity (sores)
Indications
Irregular and painful menstruation, amenorrhoea and retained lochia from blood stasis; oedema and difficult urination; and toxic sores.
Dosage
9-30 g in decoction.
Common Combinations
Often used alone or with Dang Gui and Chuan Xiong for postpartum and menstrual disorders.
Cautions & Contraindications
Contraindicated in pregnancy and in blood deficiency without stasis.