Randomised trial, 2024
Does a supplement with Rhodiola, Vitex, and vitamin B6 reduce PMS?
The supplement improved mood and antioxidant protection in women taking it, but the study could not tell if this was better than placebo because both groups improved similarly.
What they did
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. 42 women with PMS took either PREMEN-CALM supplement (containing GABA, Rhodiola, Vitex, vitamin B6, and melatonin) or placebo for 3 months. Researchers measured antioxidants, inflammation, body composition, sleep quality, mood, quality of life, and menstrual cycle features before and after.
What they found
The supplement group showed significant improvement in antioxidant status and mood compared to baseline. However, when comparing the supplement group directly to the placebo group, there were no statistical differences, suggesting a placebo effect.
What it means for you
The supplement may help PMS symptoms through antioxidant and mood effects, but a placebo effect was likely. This was a small pilot study, so larger trials are needed before recommending it for PMS.
42
women studied
21
in supplement group
3 months
treatment duration
About the study
- Original title
- Effects of the PREMEN-CALM® in the Management of the Premenstrual Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study
- Authors
- Herrera A, Al Adib M, Rodríguez AB et al.
- Journal
- Journal of dietary supplements
- Year
- 2024
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- Participants
- 42
- What was tested
- PREMEN-CALM (GABA, Rhodiola rosea, Vitex agnus-castus, vitamin B6, melatonin) for 3 months
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2023.2301398
Topics
Related studies
Review, 2023
Can herbs and supplements help with PMS symptoms?
Review, 2015
What do we know about PMS and PMDD and how are they treated?
Randomised trial, 2010
What treatments work for premenstrual syndrome?
Systematic review, 2007
What treatments work for premenstrual syndrome?
Review, 2025
Do yoga and dietary changes help with PMS symptoms?
Study, 2026
How can lifestyle changes help reduce premenstrual syndrome?