Evidence supporting the use of: Phytoestrogen
For the health condition: Menstrual Irregularity
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Phytoestrogens are plant-derived compounds with estrogen-like activity, most notably found in soy, flaxseed, and some other foods. Their use to support or treat menstrual irregularity is primarily based on the fact that phytoestrogens can bind to estrogen receptors and exert weak estrogenic or anti-estrogenic effects. Scientific studies have investigated their effects on menstrual cycles, particularly in populations experiencing menstrual irregularities, such as perimenopausal women or those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Some evidence suggests that phytoestrogens can influence menstrual cycle length and hormonal balance: for example, soy isoflavones have been shown in a few small studies to slightly lengthen the follicular phase or modulate hormone levels. However, the quality and quantity of scientific evidence supporting their use for general menstrual irregularity is limited. Most clinical trials are small, have short durations, or focus primarily on menopausal symptoms rather than menstrual cycle regulation in premenopausal women. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews often conclude that evidence is inconclusive or low-quality, with no clear consensus on efficacy. Overall, while there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence for the use of phytoestrogens in menstrual irregularity, the support is modest and insufficient for strong clinical recommendations. More robust, large-scale studies are needed to confirm efficacy and determine optimal dosing and indications.
Other ingredients used for Menstrual Irregularity
ashwagandhablack cohosh
black pepper
calcium
cassia bark
chaste tree
dong quai root
evening primrose oil
fenugreek
Japanese sophora
licorice root
lovage
maca
motherwort
vitamin B6
vitamin C
vitamin D
wild yam
zinc
red clover
anise
blackboard tree
fumaria parviflora
rubia cordifolia
blessed thistle
lingusticum wallichii
yarrow
prickly ash
juniper berries
dioscorea
queen of the meadow
shepherd's purse
wood betony
akebia
Apple Cider Vinegar
Agastache
Angelica
Agrimony
Achyranthes
Abrus
Alchemilla
Aletris
Ajuga
Anserina
Aerva lanata
Agrimonia pilosa
Agnuside
Ashoka
Abuta
Betony
Blue Cohosh
Blue Flag
Blepharis
Balsam
Big Quaking Grass
Black Gram
Bethroot
Baccharoides anthelmintica
black salt
Black root
Bupleurum
Black Hellebore
Bergenia
Cumin
Cohosh
Clary sage
Calotropis gigantea
Cnidium
Clerodendrum phlomidis
Cactus
Cinquefoil
Cyathula
Corktree
Cowslip
Chirata
Calamus
Corydalis
Didymocarpus
Dong Quai
Elephant's Head
Evening Primrose
Fig
Little ironweed
Pennyroyal
Rose
Spikenard
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Other health conditions supported by Phytoestrogen
Alzheimer's DiseaseCancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Depression
Diabetes
Dysmenorrhea
Endometriosis
Estrogen (low)
Hot Flashes
Hypertension
Inflammation
Menopause
Menstrual Irregularity
Osteoporosis
PMS (general)
PMS Type S
Triglycerides (high)
Vaginal Dryness