Evidence supporting the use of: Pulsatilla
For the health condition: Cramps and Spasms
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Pulsatilla, derived from the plant Pulsatilla pratensis or Pulsatilla vulgaris, has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly within the context of homeopathy and European folk remedies. It has been employed traditionally to address a range of symptoms, including menstrual cramps, muscle spasms, and pain associated with reproductive health. Historical texts and traditional practitioners have recommended Pulsatilla for its purported antispasmodic and calming effects, especially in cases where symptoms are described as shifting, variable, or accompanied by emotional sensitivity. However, the evidence supporting these uses is largely anecdotal and based on traditional practice rather than rigorous scientific investigation.
To date, there is a lack of high-quality clinical trials or pharmacological studies validating the effectiveness of Pulsatilla for cramps or spasms. Its use in homeopathy is particularly controversial, as homeopathic preparations typically contain extremely diluted forms of the active substance, raising questions about biological plausibility. Modern herbal medicine does not widely endorse Pulsatilla for cramps or spasms outside of these traditional or homeopathic contexts. Therefore, while Pulsatilla's use for cramps and spasms is justified by tradition, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy remains minimal, warranting a low evidence rating.
Other ingredients used for Cramps and Spasms
calciumturmeric
ginger
magnesium
parsley
peppermint oil
pomegranate
potassium
spearmint leaf
vitamin D
wild yam
catnip
gastrodia
alpinia galangal
ferula assafoetida
anise
trace minerals
Angel's Trumpet
Angelica
Anserina
Anemone
Actaea spicata
Bugbane
Bogbean
Bethroot
Cramp Bark
Chuchuhuasi
Cymbopogon Martini
Cowslip
Corydalis
Wormseed
Other health conditions supported by Pulsatilla
AmenorrheaAnxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Backache
Bedwetting
Bladder (irritable)
Conjunctivitis
Cramps (menstrual)
Cramps and Spasms
Depression
Diarrhea
Dysmenorrhea
Ear Infection or Earache
Eczema
Emotional Sensitivity
Eye Problems
Eyes (red or itching)
Fever
Glands (swollen lymph)
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Headache (tension)
Indigestion
Inflammation
Insomnia
Irritability
Itching
Jaundice (adults)
Leucorrhea
Menopause
Menstrual Irregularity
Menstruation (scant)
Mood Swings
Nausea and Vomiting
Nervousness
Pain (general remedies for)
PMS (general)
PMS Type A