Synopsis

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

"Snakeroot" is a common name applied to several different plant species, most notably Rauwolfia serpentina (Indian snakeroot), Aristolochia serpentaria (Virginia snakeroot), and Polygala senega (Seneca snakeroot). In the context of menstrual irregularity, historical and ethnobotanical texts primarily reference Rauwolfia serpentina and, to a lesser extent, Aristolochia serpentaria. Traditional systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, have used Indian snakeroot for various gynecological complaints, including menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, and amenorrhea. The justification for its use is therefore primarily traditional, with anecdotal and historical records describing its application to support menstrual health. However, there is limited to no robust scientific evidence from controlled clinical trials supporting its efficacy for menstrual irregularities. Most modern research on snakeroot, especially Rauwolfia serpentina, focuses on its antihypertensive and sedative properties due to the alkaloid reserpine. The use of other "snakeroot" species for menstrual issues is even less substantiated. Overall, while historic and traditional use exists, the absence of modern scientific validation limits the evidence supporting its effectiveness for menstrual irregularity.

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