Synopsis

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

Black Haw (Viburnum prunifolium) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American and early European-American practitioners, for supporting menstrual health and addressing menstrual irregularities. It was commonly used to manage painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea), prevent miscarriage, and reduce uterine spasms. The plant’s bark contains compounds such as viburnin, salicin, and various tannins, which are believed to have antispasmodic and mild sedative effects on uterine muscle tissue. Most of the evidence for Black Haw's use in menstrual irregularity is anecdotal or based on historical texts and herbalist accounts rather than rigorous clinical trials.

While some laboratory studies have shown that extracts of Black Haw can relax smooth muscle tissue, including that of the uterus, there is a lack of high-quality, modern human clinical research confirming its efficacy or safety for regulating menstrual cycles specifically. The bulk of support for its use remains rooted in tradition and historical records, rather than scientific validation. Therefore, Black Haw is considered to have a traditional basis for use in treating menstrual irregularity, with a moderate but unproven level of evidence (rated 2 out of 5).

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