Randomised trial, 2016
Does Valerian root extract reduce PMS symptoms?
Yes. Women taking Valerian root extract had significantly lower emotional, behavioral, and physical PMS symptoms compared to placebo.
What they did
Double-blind randomized trial with 100 female university students with PMS in Iran. They were randomly assigned to receive either Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) or placebo. Participants took 2 pills daily during the last 7 days of their menstrual cycle for 3 cycles. Symptoms were measured before the treatment and after.
What they found
The Valerian group had a significant decrease in emotional, behavioral, and physical PMS symptoms (p<0.001). The placebo group had no significant change.
What it means for you
Valerian root may help reduce PMS symptoms, including mood changes and physical pain. The study only lasted 3 cycles and only included Iranian university students, so results may not apply to all women. This was a double-blind study, which is strong evidence.
100
women in the study
3 cycles
study duration
7 days
treatment given in last days of cycle
About the study
- Original title
- The effect of Valerian root extract on the severity of pre menstrual syndrome symptoms
- Authors
- Behboodi Moghadam Z, Rezaei E, Shirood Gholami R et al.
- Journal
- Journal of traditional and complementary medicine
- Year
- 2016
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- Participants
- 100
- What was tested
- Valerian root extract versus placebo, 2 pills daily in the last 7 days of the menstrual cycle
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcme.2015.09.001
Topics
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