Evidence supporting the use of: Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and mild sedative properties. In recent years, some scientific studies have investigated its effectiveness for dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). Several randomized controlled trials and observational studies have found that chamomile tea or extracts can reduce the severity and duration of menstrual pain. The proposed mechanisms include inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis (which is associated with uterine contractions and pain), muscle relaxation due to antispasmodic effects, and anti-inflammatory activity attributed to flavonoids such as apigenin.

A 2010 double-blind clinical trial by Modarres et al. observed that women who consumed chamomile extract capsules experienced significantly less menstrual pain compared to placebo. Other clinical studies have supported these outcomes, though the sample sizes are relatively small and study quality varies. Systematic reviews acknowledge the potential benefit but emphasize the need for larger, high-quality trials to make definitive recommendations. Traditional use and preliminary scientific validation justify chamomile’s use for dysmenorrhea, but the overall evidence is considered moderate (rating 3/5), reflecting both promising results and the current limitations in research.

More about Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
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