Evidence supporting the use of: Root tuber
For the health condition: Menopause

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Synopsis

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

Root tubers, such as those from Pueraria mirifica (commonly called Kwao Krua), wild yam (Dioscorea species), and certain yams, have been traditionally used in various cultures to support women's health, particularly during menopause. In traditional Thai medicine, Pueraria mirifica has been consumed for its reputed estrogenic properties, believed to alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Similarly, wild yam has a history of use in Western herbalism for "balancing hormones," though its active component, diosgenin, is not converted into estrogen in the human body but can be in a laboratory setting.

While there are some preliminary scientific studies, particularly on Pueraria mirifica, showing modest benefits for menopausal symptoms, the majority of evidence remains anecdotal or based on small-scale studies. Systematic reviews and larger clinical trials are limited, and the efficacy of other root tubers (like wild yam) for menopause is not well-supported by rigorous research. Thus, the rating reflects the fact that these root tubers are mainly used based on traditional knowledge, with only limited and preliminary scientific validation.

Overall, while root tubers have a strong traditional basis for menopausal use, high-quality scientific evidence remains insufficient, and further research is needed to fully validate their effectiveness and safety for this purpose.

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