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Review, 2025

Do herbal remedies help with menstrual and menopausal symptoms?

Several herbs have been traditionally used and may help with menstrual pain, irregular cycles, mood changes, and heavy bleeding. More rigorous testing is needed to confirm these effects, and you should talk to your doctor before using herbs, especially if you take other medicines.

Early or limited evidence Women with menstrual and menopausal symptoms

What they did

Reviewed research on herbal remedies used for menstrual and menopausal symptoms, including their traditional uses and reported benefits.

What they found

Chasteberry may regulate hormones and help PMS and irregular cycles. Ginger and turmeric may reduce menstrual pain. Chamomile and peppermint may ease cramps. Dong Quai may regulate cycles and relieve pain. Black cohosh may help hot flashes and mood swings. Ashwagandha may help manage stress and anxiety. Raspberry leaf may ease heavy bleeding.

What it means for you

Many herbs are traditionally used for menstrual symptoms and show promise, but solid evidence is limited. You should consult with a healthcare provider before using herbs, especially if you have other health conditions or take medications.

About the study

Original title
Herbal Solutions for Menopausal Problems: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors
Niyati Shah, Mamta Kumari, Piyushkumar Sadhu et al.
Journal
Journal of Natural Remedies
Year
2025
Study design
Review
What was tested
Various herbal remedies
Open access
Yes
Original abstract

Herbal remedies have been utilized for centuries to alleviate menstrual problems, offering a natural alternative to conventional treatments. Menstrual issues encompass a spectrum of symptoms, including pain, irregularity, and mood disturbances, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Herbal remedies offer a comprehensive approach, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of menstruation. One commonly used herb is chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus), which has been shown to regulate hormonal imbalances and alleviate symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and irregular cycles. Additionally, ginger (Zingiber officinale) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) possess anti-inflammatory properties, reducing menstrual pain and discomfort. Herbal teas containing ingredients such as chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and peppermint (Mentha piperita) can soothe cramps and promote relaxation. Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) is a traditional Chinese herb known for its ability to regulate menstrual cycles and relieve menstrual pain by promoting blood circulation. Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) is another herb used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes and mood swings, which may occur during menstruation. The adaptogenic herb ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) can help manage stress and anxiety associated with menstrual problems, supporting overall emotional well-being. Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) is commonly used to tone the uterus and ease heavy menstrual bleeding. Herbal remedies offer a diverse array of options for managing menstrual problems, addressing both physical discomfort and emotional distress. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating herbal remedies into your regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications, to ensure safety and efficacy. Major Findings: Detailed review showing positive effects of herbs in reducing menstrual problems.

Reproduced under CC-BY.

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