Evidence supporting the use of: Ginseng
For the health condition: Afterbirth Pain

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Ginseng has a long history of use in traditional East Asian medicine, where it is valued for its supposed restorative and “qi” (vital energy) strengthening properties. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), ginseng (Panax ginseng) is sometimes used in postpartum care, including to address afterbirth pain (also known as postpartum uterine pain or lochia pain). The rationale is based on TCM principles: after childbirth, blood and energy are considered depleted, and ginseng is thought to replenish these, promote recovery, and alleviate discomfort. Classic texts and traditional formulas may include ginseng, often in combination with other herbs, to help the mother regain strength and reduce various postpartum symptoms, possibly including afterbirth pain.

However, there is minimal direct scientific evidence to support the use of ginseng specifically for afterbirth pain. Most modern research on ginseng focuses on its general adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties, but has not rigorously evaluated its effectiveness for postpartum uterine pain. A few animal studies suggest possible antinociceptive (pain-reducing) effects of ginsenosides (active compounds in ginseng), but these findings have not been translated to robust clinical trials in postpartum women. Thus, while its use for this indication is rooted in tradition, scientific validation and high-quality clinical evidence are lacking.

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