Ashoka (Saraca asoca) has a long-standing presence in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, especially for gynecological disorders. Its bark is commonly used in classical formulations like Ashokarishta, which is prescribed for a variety of menstrual irregularities, including scanty menstruation (oligomenorrhea). Ancient Ayurvedic texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita describe Ashoka as a "yoni-shoolahara" (reliever of uterine pain) and as a herb that promotes healthy menstruation and balances the doshas associated with reproductive health. Traditionally, it is believed to stimulate the endometrium and ovarian tissue, thus potentially regulating menstrual flow.

While the traditional basis for Ashoka’s use in scanty menstruation is well established, scientific validation is limited and mostly preclinical. Some studies have reported that Ashoka bark extracts possess phytoestrogenic and uterine stimulant activity in animal models, which could theoretically help restore normal menstrual flow. However, rigorous clinical trials in humans are sparse, and most available studies are either in vitro or involve small sample sizes with methodological limitations. Therefore, the main justification for using Ashoka in the context of scanty menstruation remains traditional, with moderate supportive evidence from preliminary scientific studies.