Evidence supporting the use of: Asoka
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Asoka (Saraca asoca) is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to manage gynecological disorders, including dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). Ancient Ayurvedic texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita document its use for uterine health and relief from menstrual discomfort. The bark of Asoka is a common ingredient in formulations like Ashokarishta, which is prescribed for various menstrual disorders.
With respect to scientific validation, available research is limited and mostly preclinical. Some animal studies suggest that extracts of Saraca asoca may have anti-inflammatory and spasmolytic properties, which could theoretically alleviate menstrual pain. However, there is a lack of well-designed human clinical trials directly assessing its efficacy for dysmenorrhea. As a result, its use is primarily justified on the basis of historical and traditional practice rather than robust scientific evidence.
In summary, the use of Asoka for dysmenorrhea is rooted in Ayurvedic tradition with some preliminary pharmacological support but lacks strong clinical evidence. Therefore, it is rated as "traditional" with an evidence score of 2 out of 5.
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 Asoka
Abdominal PainAfterbirth Pain
Amenorrhea
Anal Fistula or Fissure
Anxiety
Bedwetting
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Bruises (healing)
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Diarrhea
Dysmenorrhea
Dyspepsia
Edema
Emotional Sensitivity
Fibroids (uterine)
Gastritis
Headache (general)
Inflammation
Jaundice (adults)
Leucorrhea
Menstrual Irregularity
Pain (general remedies for)
PMS (general)
PMS Type A
PMS Type C
PMS Type D
PMS Type H
PMS Type P
PMS Type S
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)
Rashes and Hives
Scratches and Abrasions
Ulcerations (external)
Ulcers
Wounds and Sores