Evidence supporting the use of: Dong quai root
For the health condition: PMS Type P

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Synopsis

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

Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is often referred to as "female ginseng." Its use for symptoms related to menstruation—including those resembling PMS Type P (characterized by pain, such as cramps and headaches)—is primarily based on tradition. In TCM, dong quai is believed to nourish and invigorate the blood, regulate menstruation, and alleviate pain associated with menstrual disorders.

Historically, dong quai has been included in numerous herbal formulas aimed at treating menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea (painful periods), and other gynecological complaints. It is thought to exert mild antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which could theoretically help with the pain aspects of PMS Type P. However, rigorous scientific studies specifically investigating dong quai for PMS—especially Type P—are limited. Few clinical trials have evaluated its efficacy for PMS, and those that exist often use dong quai in combination with other herbs, making it difficult to attribute effects to dong quai alone.

In summary, the use of dong quai root for PMS Type P is justified primarily by tradition, with some plausible mechanisms suggested by laboratory studies, but there is a lack of robust clinical evidence to strongly support its use for this specific condition. The evidence rating of 2 reflects weak support, mostly from traditional use and limited preclinical data, rather than high-quality clinical trials.

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