Evidence supporting the use of: Phytoestrogen
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Phytoestrogens, plant-derived compounds with estrogen-like activity, have been traditionally used in various cultures to manage menstrual complaints, including dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). Their use is primarily rooted in traditional and folk medicine, particularly in East Asian and Mediterranean cultures, where phytoestrogen-rich plants such as soy, flaxseed, and certain herbs have been consumed to promote women's reproductive health. The presumed mechanism is based on their weak estrogenic effects, which might help balance hormonal fluctuations believed to contribute to menstrual pain. However, scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of phytoestrogens specifically for dysmenorrhea is limited and largely inconclusive. Some small studies and anecdotal reports suggest mild improvements in menstrual symptoms, but large-scale, well-controlled clinical trials are lacking. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses to date have not established clear benefits of phytoestrogens for dysmenorrhea. Most scientific research has focused on phytoestrogens for menopausal symptoms rather than menstrual pain. In summary, while the use of phytoestrogens for dysmenorrhea is justified by traditional practices, scientific validation remains weak, and more rigorous research is needed to confirm any therapeutic benefit in this context.
Other ingredients used for Dysmenorrhea
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)black cohosh
calcium
chamomile
chaste tree
dong quai root
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
evening primrose oil
fennel
fish oil
ginger
magnesium
motherwort
omega-3 fatty acids
parsley
passionflower
peppermint oil
phytocannabinoids
vitamin B6
vitamin E
wild yam
gastrodia
anise
peony
dioscorea
trichosanthes
shepherd's purse
Avens
Ambergris
Angelica
Achyranthes
Anamu
Albizia
Alchemilla
Aletris
Anserina
Aerva lanata
Anemone
Actaea spicata
Agrimonia pilosa
Agnuside
Ashoka
Abuta
Arisaema
Blue Cohosh
Blepharis
Boswellia
Bethroot
Boerhavia diffusa
Cohosh
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Cyathula
Corydalis
Didymocarpus
Dong Quai
Erythropalum scandens
Eupolyphaga sinensis
Euphorbia
Pennyroyal
Poppy
Other health conditions supported by Phytoestrogen
Alzheimer's DiseaseCancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Depression
Diabetes
Dysmenorrhea
Endometriosis
Estrogen (low)
Hot Flashes
Hypertension
Inflammation
Menopause
Menstrual Irregularity
Osteoporosis
PMS (general)
PMS Type S
Triglycerides (high)
Vaginal Dryness