Evidence supporting the use of: Semecarpus anacardium
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Semecarpus anacardium, commonly known as the "marking nut," has a longstanding history in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, where it is used for a variety of ailments, including gynecological disorders such as dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). Classical Ayurvedic texts mention its use as a component in formulations aimed at balancing "Vata" and "Kapha" doshas, and it is often prescribed in combination with other herbs to help alleviate menstrual discomfort and pain.
While its traditional use is well documented, scientific studies specifically evaluating the efficacy and safety of Semecarpus anacardium for dysmenorrhea are extremely limited. Some pharmacological research has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antispasmodic properties in animal models, which could theoretically contribute to the relief of menstrual pain. However, these studies are preliminary and do not directly assess outcomes in dysmenorrhea nor do they provide robust clinical data in humans.
In summary, the use of Semecarpus anacardium for dysmenorrhea is primarily justified by traditional medical practices, with only indirect or preliminary scientific support for its potential mechanisms. Rigorous clinical trials are lacking, so while it remains a traditional remedy, its evidence base from a modern scientific perspective is weak.
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
Euphorbia
Pennyroyal
Poppy
Other health conditions supported by Semecarpus anacardium
Abdominal PainArthritis
Asthma
Backache
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cough (general)
Cuts
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Dysmenorrhea
Eczema
Eye Infections
Fatigue
Fever
Gastritis
Gout
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Headache (tension)
Herpes
Hypertension
Inflammation
Injuries
Insomnia
Jaundice (adults)
Liver Detoxification
Menstrual Irregularity
Pain (general remedies for)
Psoriasis
Rashes and Hives
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Skin (infections)
Sleep (restless and disturbed)
Stress
Ulcers
Urinary Tract Infections
Wounds and Sores