Female Health

A variety of herbs have been shown to help with female health issues such as menstrual pains, menopause, and more.

Recipes to Help with Female Health

Easy Microwave-In-Your-Mug Flaxseed Muffin Recipe

Essential Oils and Menstrual Pain – Recipes and Research

Menopausal Tea Recipe

Red Clover Citrusade for Hot Flashes

There are Many Benefits of Yarrow

Blog Articles

Essential Oils and Menstrual Pain – Recipes and Research

Menopausal Tea Recipe

Rose & Pain Reduction

There are Many Benefits of Yarrow

RESEARCH

The listings of research below represent a compilation of scientific articles found on the topic, with a very brief overview description of each article/study.  This compilation of research articles does not necessarily imply that there are adequate results to demonstrate safe and/or effective human use of any herb listed.

Menopause

Menopause Recipes

Easy Microwave In Your Mug Flaxseed Muffin

  Soy Beans

• In a review of 16 studies that included 1092 postmenopausal women, lavender aroma helped reduce symptoms like anxiety and hot flashes, but more research is suggested. From: Salehi-Pourmehr, H., Ostadrahimi, A., Ebrahimpour-Mirzarezaei, M., & Farshbaf-Khalili, A. (2020). Does aromatherapy with lavender affect physical and psychological symptoms of menopausal women? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 39, 101150.
• Seventeen articles were reviewed on red clover and the mega-analysis concluded a marginally significant effect of T. pratense isoflavones for treating hot flushes in menopausal women with no adverse side effects for short term use and no evidence on long term use.  From:  Coon, J. T., Pittler, M. H., & Ernst, E. (2007). Trifolium pratense isoflavones in the treatment of menopausal hot flushes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytomedicine, 14(2), 153-159.
• In a study of 180 postmenopausal women ages 45-55, taking 40 mg of a Ginkgo biloba tablet and 2-3 drops of aroma of geranium, rose, fennel, and lavender 3 times a day for 6 weeks reduced sexual disfunction compared to the placebo, gingko only, and aromatherapy only groups.  From:  Malakouti, J., Jabbari, F., Jafarabadi, M. A., Javadzadeh, Y., & Khalili, A. F. (2017). The impact of ginkgo biloba tablet and aromatherapy inhaler combination on sexual function in females during postmenopausal period: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Int J Womens Health Reprod Sci, 5, 129-136.
• In a double blind clinical trial of 68 menopausal women, valerian root reduced hot flashes.   From:  Mirabi, P., & Mojab, F. (2013). The effects of valerian root on hot flashes in menopausal women. Iranian journal of pharmaceutical research: IJPR, 12(1), 217.
• In a double blind study of 60 menopausal women, isoflavones from red clover at 80 mg a day for 90 days significantly reduced menopausal symptoms, including vaginal cytology and triglycerides.  From:  Hidalgo, L. A., Chedraui, P. A., Morocho, N., Ross, S., & San Miguel, G. (2005). The effect of red clover isoflavones on menopausal symptoms, lipids and vaginal cytology in menopausal women: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Gynecological Endocrinology, 21(5), 257-264.
• A meta-analysis of multiple studies on the use of 80 mg a day of isoflavones (for 3 months) from red clover to treat menopause showed a safe and clinically significant benefit to reducing hot flashes.  From:  Myers, S. P., & Vigar, V. (2017). Effects of a standardised extract of Trifolium pratense (Promensil) at a dosage of 80 mg in the treatment of menopausal hot flushes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Phytomedicine, 24, 141-147.
• In this double-blinded clinical trial was performed on 48 women valerian was effective in treating hot flashes.  From:  Kazemian, A., BANAEIAN, S., Parvin, N., & Delaram, M. (2006). The effect of valerian on hot flash in menopausal women.
• A double-blind randomized controlled trial on 60 postmenopausal women showed a vaginal cream with fennel applied once a day for eight weeks reduced vaginal atrophy.  From:  Yaralizadeh, M., Abedi, P., Najar, S., Namjoyan, F., & Saki, A. (2016). Effect of Foeniculum vulgare (fennel) vaginal cream on vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial. maturitas, 84, 75-80.
• In a triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 90 postmenopausal women took 100 mg of fennel twice a day for 8 weeks and showed significant reduction in menopausal symptoms.   From:  Rahimikian, F., Rahimi, R., Golzareh, P., Bekhradi, R., & Mehran, A. (2017). Effect of Foeniculum vulgare Mill.(fennel) on menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women: a randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Menopause.
• Can the aroma of jasmine help women with menopausal stresses?  Read more at uhRohMuh
• Extracts from Vitex agnus-castus showed prolactin inhibition activity against rat pituitary cells in vitro and may be useful in treating hyperprolactinaemia.  From:  Sliutz, G., Speiser, P., Schultz, A. M., Spona, J., & Zeillinger, R. (1993). Agnus castus extracts inhibit prolactin secretion of rat pituitary cells. Hormone and metabolic research, 25(05), 253-255.
• In a study of 100 menopausal women, lavender aroma smelled for 20 minutes, twice daily, for a 12 week period resulted in decreased menopausal symptoms compared to the control group.  From:  Nikjou, R., Kazemzadeh, R., Asadzadeh, F., Fathi, R., & Mostafazadeh, F. (2018). The effect of lavender aromatherapy on the symptoms of menopause. journal of the national medical association, 110(3), 265-269.
• In a study 0f 70 menopausal women with vaginal atrophy, a 2% licorice cream applied daily for 8 weeks reduced symptoms compared to the placebo. From: Sadeghi, M., Namjouyan, F., Cheraghian, B., & Abbaspoor, Z. (2019). Impact of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) vaginal cream on vaginal signs and symptoms of vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: A randomized double blind controlled trial. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine
• Essential oil from the leaf of chaste berry showed reduced menopausal symptoms.  From:  Lucks, B. C., Sørensen, J., & Veal, L. (2002). Vitex agnus-castus essential oil and menopausal balance: a self-care survey. Complementary Therapies in Nursing and Midwifery, 8(3), 148-154.
• In a randomized double blind trial of 304 patients, hot flashes were reduced in menopausal women with black cohosh extracts.  From:  Osmers, R., Friede, M., Liske, E., Schnitker, J., Freudenstein, J., & Henneicke-von Zepelin, H. H. (2005). Efficacy and safety of isopropanolic black cohosh extract for climacteric symptoms. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 105(5, Part 1), 1074-1083.
• In a six month controlled, randomized, double-blinded parallel group study, Cimicifugae racemosa extract improved menopause symptoms without an estrogenlike effect.  From:  Liske, E., Hänggi, W., Henneicke-von Zepelin, H. H., Boblitz, N., Wüstenberg, P., & Rahlfs, V. W. (2002). Physiological investigation of a unique extract of black cohosh (Cimicifugae racemosae rhizoma): a 6-month clinical study demonstrates no systemic estrogenic effect. Journal of women’s health & gender-based medicine, 11(2), 163-174.
• The group of menopausal women who received an aromatherapy massage on the abdomen, back and arms with lavender, rose geranium, rose and jasmine in almond and primrose oils once a week for 8 weeks had reduced symptoms compared to the nontreated group.  From:  Hur, M. H., Yang, Y. S., & Lee, M. S. (2008). Aromatherapy massage affects menopausal symptoms in Korean climacteric women: a pilot-controlled clinical trial. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 5(3), 325-328.
• A review of eight human studies showed black cohosh to be effective in safe in treating menopausal symptoms.  From:  Lieberman, S. (1998). A review of the effectiveness of Cimicifuga racemosa (black cohosh) for the symptoms of menopause. Journal of Women’s Health, 7(5), 525-529.
• In a study of 15 perimenopausal women per essential oil, aroma of jasmine absolute, roman chamomile, and clary sage essential oils resulted in increased salivary testosterone levels.  From:  Tarumi, W., Kumagai, C., & Shinohara, K. (2019). Exposure to Essential Oil Odors Increases Salivary Testosterone Concentration in Perimenopausal Women. Acta medica Nagasakiensia, 62(2), 49-54.
• An herbal combination of black cohosh and St. John’s wort reduced menopausal symptoms in a double-blind randomized placebo-control study of 301 women.  From:  Uebelhack, R., Blohmer, J. U., Graubaum, H. J., Busch, R., Gruenwald, J., & Wernecke, K. D. (2006). Black cohosh and St. John’s wort for climacteric complaints: a randomized trial. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 107(2, Part 1), 247-255.
• In a review of research, fennel reduced a variety of symptoms associated with menopause. From: Khadivzadeh, T., Najafi, M. N., Kargarfard, L., Ghazanfarpour, M., Dizavandi, F. R., & Khorsand, I. (2018). Effect of Fennel on the Health Status of Menopausal Women: A Systematic and Meta-analysis. Journal of menopausal medicine, 24(1), 67-74.
• Black cohosh reduced hot flashes in menopausal rats without an estrogenic effect.  From:  Burdette, J. E., Liu, J., Chen, S. N., Fabricant, D. S., Piersen, C. E., Barker, E. L., … & Bolton, J. L. (2003). Black cohosh acts as a mixed competitive ligand and partial agonist of the serotonin receptor. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 51(19), 5661-5670.
• Black cohosh reduced hot flashes in women with a low level of toxicity. From:  Pockaj, B. A., Loprinzi, C. L., Sloan, J. A., Novotny, P. J., Barton, D. L., Hagenmaier, A., … & Wisbey, J. A. (2004). Pilot evaluation of black cohosh for the treatment of hot flashes in women. Cancer investigation, 22(4), 515-521.
• Nine randomized placebo controlled trials were reviewed and data showed that black cohosh improved symptoms of menopause.  More research on the effectiveness and safety of the herb is warranted.  From:  Jane McCusker MD, D. (2010). Efficacy of black cohosh-containing preparations on menopausal symptoms: a meta-analysis. Alternative therapies in health and medicine, 16(1), 36.
• In a study with 63 healthy menopausal women, inhalation of neroli for 5 minutes, twice a day, for 5 days improved mood and reduced stress and menopausal symptoms.  From:  Choi, S. Y., Kang, P., Lee, H. S., & Seol, G. H. (2014). Effects of inhalation of essential oil of Citrus aurantium L. var. amara on menopausal symptoms, stress, and estrogen in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014.
• In a study of 156 menopausal women, Bitter orange and lavender flower powder ingested twice a day for 8 weeks significantly reduced depression compared to the placebo.  From:  Kamalifard, M., Khalili, A. F., Namadian, M., Herizchi, S., & Ranjbar, Y. (2017). Comparison of the Effect of Lavender and Bitter Orange on Depression in Menopausal Women: A Triple-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial. International Journal of Womens Health and Reproduction Sciences, 5(3), 224-230.
• In a Chinese randomized double blind controlled study, Cimicifuga racemosa extract was effective and safer than the drug tibolone in treating menopausal symptoms.  From:  Bai, W., Henneicke-von Zepelin, H. H., Wang, S., Zheng, S., Liu, J., Zhang, Z., … & Liske, E. (2007). Efficacy and tolerability of a medicinal product containing an isopropanolic black cohosh extract in Chinese women with menopausal symptoms: a randomized, double blind, parallel-controlled study versus tibolone. Maturitas, 58(1), 31-41.
• Pumpkin seed oil lowered blood pressure and cholesterol levels in low estrogen level rats.  From:  Gossell‐Williams, M., Lyttle, K., Clarke, T., Gardner, M., & Simon, O. (2008). Supplementation with pumpkin seed oil improves plasma lipid profile and cardiovascular outcomes of female non‐ovariectomized and ovariectomized Sprague‐Dawley rats. Phytotherapy Research, 22(7), 873-877.
• Flaxseed at a dose of 40 g was effective as an oral estrogen-progesterone to improve mild menopausal symptoms and lower glucose and insulin levels in hypercholesterolemic menopausal women.  From:  Lemay, A., Dodin, S., Kadri, N., Jacques, H., & Forest, J. C. (2002). Flaxseed dietary supplement versus hormone replacement therapy in hypercholesterolemic menopausal women. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 100(3), 495-504.
• In a study of 87 menopausal women, 30-minute aromatherapy sessions twice a week for 4 weeks resulted in reduced phsychological symptoms.  Aromatherapy included lavender, geranium, rose, and rosemary essential oils at a ratio of 4:2:1:1 that were diluted to 3% in a blend of 90% almond and 10% primrose carrier oils.  From:  Taavoni, S., Darsareh, F., Joolaee, S., & Haghani, H. (2013). The effect of aromatherapy massage on the psychological symptoms of postmenopausal Iranian women. Complementary therapies in medicine, 21(3), 158-163.
• In a randomized controlled study with 60 postmenopausal women with sexual dysfunction, applying a cream containing a fennel extract for 8 weeks improved sexual functions. From: Abedi, P., Najafian, M., Yaralizadeh, M., & Namjoyan, F. (2018). Effect of fennel vaginal cream on sexual function in postmenopausal women: A double blind randomized controlled trial. Journal of medicine and life, 11(1), 24.
• Hot flashes were reduced with a supplement of red clover isoflavones in menopausal women.  From:  van de Weijer, P. H., & Barentsen, R. (2002). Isoflavones from red clover (Promensil®) significantly reduce menopausal hot flush symptoms compared with placebo. Maturitas, 42(3), 187-193.
• In a study of 116 post menopausal women with vaginal atrophy, taking a seabuckthorn supplement significantly improved vaginal epithelium.  From:  Larmo, P. S., Yang, B., Hyssälä, J., Kallio, H. P., & Erkkola, R. (2014). Effects of sea buckthorn oil intake on vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Maturitas, 79(3), 316-321.
• In a study of 117 menopausal women, an ayurvedic blend of Tinospora Cardifolia, Asparagus racemosus, Withania somnifera and Commiphora mukul taken twice daily for two weeks significantly reduced sypmptoms compared to the placebo. From:  Steels, E., Steele, M., Harold, M., Adams, L., & Coulson, S. (2018). A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial evaluating safety and efficacy of an ayurvedic botanical formulation in reducing menopausal symptoms in otherwise healthy women. Journal of Herbal Medicine, 11, 30-35.
• In a study of menopausal women, ingestion of bitter orange and lavender flower powders significantly reduced anxiety compared to the placebo.  From: Farshbaf-Khalili, A., Kamalifard, M., & Namadian, M. (2018). Comparison of the effect of lavender and bitter orange on anxiety in postmenopausal women: A triple-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 31, 132-138.
• The use of an isolated phytoestrogen from hops in treating menopausal symptoms was discussed.  From:  Štulíková, K., Karabín, M., Nešpor, J., & Dostálek, P. (2018). Therapeutic perspectives of 8-prenylnaringenin, a potent phytoestrogen from hops. Molecules, 23(3), 660.
• A review of the use of fennel to treat women’s health conditions is provided. Conditions include premenstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, menopause, amenorrhea, lactation and polycystic ovarian syndrome. From: Mahboubi, M. (2019). Foeniculum vulgare as Valuable Plant in Management of Women’s Health. Journal of menopausal medicine, 25(1), 1-14.

Menstrual Cycle

  Chaste Berries

• A blend of lavender (Lavandula officinalis), clary sage (Salvia sclarea) and marjoram (Origanum majorana) in a carrier cream, massaged on the lower abdomen reduced menstrual pain.  From:  Ou, M. C., Hsu, T. F., Lai, A. C., Lin, Y. T., & Lin, C. C. (2012). Pain relief assessment by aromatic essential oil massage on outpatients with primary dysmenorrhea: A randomized, double‐blind clinical trial. Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology research, 38(5), 817-822.
• A double-blind, randomized, clinical trial with 75 single female students showed dill powder was as effective as mefenamic acid in reducing the pain severity in primary dysmenorrhea. From:  Heidarifar, R., Mehran, N., Heidari, A., Tehran, H. A., Koohbor, M., & Mansourabad, M. K. (2014). Effect of Dill (Anethum graveolens) on the severity of primary dysmenorrhea in compared with mefenamic acid: A randomized, double-blind trial. Journal of Research in Medical Sciences : The Official Journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, 19(4), 326–330.
• In a meta-analysis of 9 studies, fennel extract was considered effective for primary dysmenorrhea. However, there was much heterogeneity in the studies, and more worldwide studies are needed. From: Salehi, A., Marzban, M., & Amini, F. (2018). Effect of Foeniculum vulgare on Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Women Health, 6(1), e74240.
• Administration of fennel reduced symptoms of painful menstruation related to its pro-estrogen activity.  From:  Ostad, S. N., Soodi, M., Shariffzadeh, M., Khorshidi, N., & Marzban, H. (2001). The effect of fennel essential oil on uterine contraction as a model for dysmenorrhea, pharmacology and toxicology study. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 76(3), 299-304.
• Aromotherapy using neroli reduced premenstrual syndrome symptoms in this study with 62 college students.  From:  Heydari, N., Abootalebi, M., Jamalimoghadam, N., Kasraeian, M., Emamghoreishi, M., & Akbarzadeh, M. (2018). Investigation of the effect of aromatherapy with Citrus aurantium blossom essential oil on premenstrual syndrome in university students: A clinical trial study. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 32, 1-5.
• In a a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial with 60 postmenopausal women, intake of fennel helped reduce anxiety and depression. From: Ghazanfarpour, M., Mohammadzadeh, F., Shokrollahi, P., Khadivzadeh, T., Najaf Najafi, M., Hajirezaee, H., & Afiat, M. (2018). Effect of Foeniculum vulgare (fennel) on symptoms of depression and anxiety in postmenopausal women: a double-blind randomised controlled trial. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 38(1), 121-126.
• Based on a review of data from randomized and non-randomized studies, it was determened that Vitex agnus- castus can be considered an efficient treatment of mastalgia.  From:  Carmichael, A. R. (2008). Can Vitex agnus castus be used for the treatment of mastalgia? What is the current evidence? Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 5(3), 247-250.
• Based on a review of research, the author concluded that ginger was the most effective herb for treating menstrual conditions.  Cramp bark and black haw were the most effective herbs for pain associated with menstruation.   From:  Rajabzadeh, F., Fazljou, S. M., Khodaie, L., Abbasalizadeh, S., & Sahebi, L. (2018). Effects of hot temperament herbs on primary Dysmenorrhea: a systematic review. Middle East Journal of Family Medicine, 7(10), 257.
• Botanicals used to treat menstrual pain is reviewed. From: Pellow, J., & Nienhuis, C. (2018). Medicinal plants for primary dysmenorrhoea: A systematic review. Complementary therapies in medicine, 37, 13-26.
• Breast pain associated with menstrual cycle was reduced in this double-blind, placebo controlled parallel study of 97 women using Vitex agnus castus.  From:  Halaska, M., Raus, K., Bĕles, P., Martan, A., & Paithner, K. G. (1998). Treatment of cyclical mastodynia using an extract of Vitex agnus castus: results of a double-blind comparison with a placebo. Ceska gynekologie, 63(5), 388-392.
• Fennel may be usable as a safe and effective herbal drug for dysmenorrhea.  From:  Jahromi, B. N., Tartifizadeh, A., & Khabnadideh, S. (2003). Comparison of fennel and mefenamic acid for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 80(2), 153-157.
• Fennel reduced painful menstruation. From:  Khorshidi, N., Ostad, S. N., Mosaddegh, M., & Soodi, M. (2010). Clinical effects of fennel essential oil on primary dysmenorrhea. Iranian journal of pharmaceutical research, 89-93.
• Fennel reduced the effects of dysmenorrhea.  From:  Bokaie, M., Farajkhoda, T., Enjezab, B., Khoshbin, A., & Mojgan, K. Z. (2013). Oral fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) drop effect on primary dysmenorrhea: Effectiveness of herbal drug. Iranian journal of nursing and midwifery research, 18(2), 128.
• Fennel was as effective as mefanemic acid in treating dysmenorrhea.  From:  Modaress Nejad, V., & Asadipour, M. (2006). Comparison of the effectiveness of fennel and mefenamic acid on pain intensity in dysmenorrhoea.
• Ginger was as effective as mefenamic acid and ibuprofen in treating dysmenorrhea. From:  Ozgoli, G., Goli, M., & Moattar, F. (2009). Comparison of effects of ginger, mefenamic acid, and ibuprofen on pain in women with primary dysmenorrhea. The journal of alternative and complementary medicine, 15(2), 129-132.
• In a clinical trial, Vitex agnus castus extract was compared to the serotonin re-uptake inhibitor: fluoxetine in treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder and patients responded well to either treatment with nostatistically significant difference between the two groups.  From:  Atmaca, M., Kumru, S., & Tezcan, E. (2003). Fluoxetine versus Vitex agnus castus extract in the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental, 18(3), 191-195.
• In a double blind 8 week study with 60 patients, the group who ingested daily drops of a chamomile preparation had significantly reduced mastalgia. From: Saghafi, N., Rhkhshandeh, H., Pourmoghadam, N., Pourali, L., Ghazanfarpour, M., Behrooznia, A., & Vafisani, F. (2018). Effectiveness of Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile) extract on pain control of cyclic mastalgia: a double-blind randomised controlled trial. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 38(1), 81-84.
• In a double blind placebo controlled study of 120 women with amenorrhea, taking a spearmint syrup increased menstruation.  From:  Mokaberinejad, R., Zafarghandi, N., Bioos, S., Dabaghian, F. H., Naseri, M., Kamalinejad, M., … & Hamiditabar, M. (2012). Mentha longifolia syrup in secondary amenorrhea: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trials. DARU Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 20(1), 97.
• In a double blind randomized study with 180 female students, an herbal blend of safron, celery seed, and anise helped reduce menstrual pains.  From:  Nahid, K., Fariborz, M., Ataolah, G., & Solokian, S. (2009). The effect of an Iranian herbal drug on primary dysmenorrhea: a clinical controlled trial. Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, 54(5), 401-404.
• In a double blind study of 92 young women, pain associated with menstruation was significantly reduced with the intake of a Rosa damascena extract.  From:  Bani, S., Hasanpour, S., Mousavi, Z., Garehbaghi, P. M., & Gojazadeh, M. (2014). The effect of rosa damascena extract on primary dysmenorrhea: a double-blind cross-over clinical trial. Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal, 16(1).
• In a double-blind randomized controlled trial study of 50 female studients with menstrual pains, one group ingested a chamomile supplement during the first three days of their menstrual cycle. The other group ingested a yarrow supplement. Both groups had reduced pain, but the yarrow group had better results than the chamomile group. From:   Radfar, S., Shahoie, R., Noori, B., Jalilian, F., & Nasab, L. H. (2018). Comparative Study on the Effect of Matricaria chamomile and Achillea millefolium Capsules on Primary Dysmenorrhea Intensity of Dormitory Students of Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, 2018. Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International, 1-7.
• In a double-blind randomized, placebo-controlled trial with 100 high school girls, taking capsules of 1200 mg of Melissa officinalis daily during their menstrual cycle significantly reduced PMS symptoms. From: Akbarzadeh, M., Dehghani, M., Moshfeghy, Z., Emamghoreishi, M., Tavakoli, P., & Zare, N. (2015). Effect of Melissa officinalis capsule on the intensity of premenstrual syndrome symptoms in high school girl students. Nursing and midwifery studies, 4(2).
• In a double-blind, placebo controlled, parallel-group, multi-center clinical trial of 217 Chinese women, Vitex agnus-castus was safe and effective in treating PMS.  From:  He, Z., Chen, R., Zhou, Y., Geng, L., Zhang, Z., Chen, S., … & Lin, S. (2009). Treatment for premenstrual syndrome with Vitex agnus castus: A prospective, randomized, multi-center placebo controlled study in China. Maturitas, 63(1), 99-103.
• In a multi-center trial of Vitex agnus castus extract to treat premenstrual syndrome, symptom relief was demonstrated.  From:  Berger, D., Schaffner, W., Schrader, E., Meier, B., & Brattström, A. (2000). Efficacy of Vitex agnus castus L. extract Ze 440 in patients with pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). Archives of gynecology and obstetrics, 264(3), 150-153.
• In a randomized double blind placebo controlled study of 50 highschool girls with PMS, the group who took a peppermint essential oil capsule twice a day for 10 days had safe and effective results. From: Delavar, M. A., Ebrahimi, S., Esmaeilzadeh, S., & Khamse, A. (2019). Effect of Peppermint Oil on Premenstrual Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study. Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal, (In Press).
• In a randomized study of forty-nine patients, a daily blend of 60 mg soy isoflavones, 100 mg of dong quai, and 50 mg black cohosh, for 24 weeks reduced the frequency of menstrually associated migraine headaches.  From:  Bai, W., Henneicke-von Zepelin, H. H., Wang, S., Zheng, S., Liu, J., Zhang, Z., … & Liske, E. (2007). Efficacy and tolerability of a medicinal product containing an isopropanolic black cohosh extract in Chinese women with menopausal symptoms: a randomized, double blind, parallel-controlled study versus tibolone. Maturitas, 58(1), 31-41.
• In a randomized, double blind, clinical trial, participants with dysmenorrhea received 1,000 mg of cinnamon in a capsule 72 hours before menstruation for two menstrual cycyles. Results showed cinnamon intake helped reduce pain. From: Jahangirifar, M., Taebi, M., & Dolatian, M. (2018). The effect of Cinnamon on primary dysmenorrhea: a randomized, double-blind clinical trial. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 33, 56-60.
• In a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled, parallel group comparison over three menstrual cycles, Vitex agnus-castus extract was an effective and well tolerated treatment for the relief of premenstrual symptoms.  From:  Schellenberg, R. (2001). Treatment for the premenstrual syndrome with agnus castus fruit extract: prospective, randomised, placebo controlled study. Bmj, 322(7279), 134-137.
• In a review of research, the following herbs showed useful for treating menstrual complaints:  vitamins B1 and E for dysmenorrhea, and calcium, vitamin B6, and chasteberry for premenstrual syndrome.  From: Dennehy, C. E. (2006). The use of herbs and dietary supplements in gynecology: an evidence‐based review. Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health, 51(6), 402-409.
• In a study 0f 32 Korean high school girls, a massage with clary sage, marjoram, cinnamon, ginger, and geranium in a base of almond oil helped reduce menstrual pains.  From:  Hur, M. H., Lee, M. S., Seong, K. Y., & Lee, M. K. (2012). Aromatherapy massage on the abdomen for alleviating menstrual pain in high school girls: a preliminary controlled clinical study. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine, 2012.
• In a study of 100 women with dysmenorrhea, inhaling rose aroma reduced pain.  From:  Uysal, M., Doğru, H. Y., Sapmaz, E., Tas, U., Çakmak, B., Ozsoy, A. Z., … & Esen, M. (2016). Investigating the effect of rose essential oil in patients with primary dysmenorrhea. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 24, 45-49.
• In a study of 120 female students with PMS, an aromatherapy massage with geranium essential oil diluted in almond oil significantly reduced symptoms.  From:  Lotfipur-Rafsanjani, S. M., Ravari, A., Ghorashi, Z., Haji-Maghsoudi, S., Akbarinasab, J., & Bekhradi, R. (2018). Effects of geranium aromatherapy massage on premenstrual syndrome: A clinical trial. International journal of preventive medicine, 9.
• In a study of 150 women with dysmenorrhea, lavender aromatherapy massage reduced menstrual pain compared to the placebo.  From:  Apay, S. E., Arslan, S., Akpinar, R. B., & Celebioglu, A. (2012). Effect of aromatherapy massage on dysmenorrhea in Turkish students. Pain management nursing, 13(4), 236-240.
• In a study of 48 women, an aromatherapy abdominal massage (with rose, lavender, clove, and cinnamon in almond oil) was effective in alleviating menstrual pain and bleeding heaviness.  Marzouk, T. M., El-Nemer, A. M., & Baraka, H. N. (2013). The effect of aromatherapy abdominal massage on alleviating menstrual pain in nursing students: a prospective randomized cross-over study. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013.
• In a study with 67 female college student with menstrual cramps, an abdominal massage using Lavandula officinalis, Salvia sclarea, and Rosa centifolia almond oil reduced the severity of the cramps.  From:  Han, S. H., Hur, M. H., Buckle, J., Choi, J., & Lee, M. S. (2006). Effect of aromatherapy on symptoms of dysmenorrhea in college students: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine, 12(6), 535-541.
• In this review of multiple studies, it was concluded that dopaminergic compounds (including clerodadienols) within Vitex agnus castus improved premenstrual mastodynia and other symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome.  From:  Wuttke, W., Jarry, H., Christoffel, V., Spengler, B., & Seidlova-Wuttke, D. (2003). Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)–pharmacology and clinical indications. Phytomedicine, 10(4), 348-357.
• In this this double-blind clinical trial of 110 female students, taking Melissa officinalis (330 mg 3 times a day over 3 days during menstruation) reduced dysmenorrhea severity. From: Mirabi, P., Namdari, M., Alamolhoda, S., & Mojab, F. (2017). The Effect of Melissa Officinalis Extract on the Severity of Primary Dysmenorrha. Iranian journal of pharmaceutical research: IJPR, 16(Suppl), 171.
• Motherwort had an intensive pharmacological effects on rat uterus that may be useful in treating in treating dysmenorrhea.  In vitro, it relaxed uterus spasm, reduced inflammation, and increased the serum progesterone level.  From:  Jin, R., Chen, Z., Chen, C., & Zhang, H. (2003). Effects of motherwort on dysmenorrhea. The Chinese Pharmaceutical Association, 21(2), 90-93.
• Pain associated with menstrual cycle was significantly reduced in female students who ingested yarrow tea during their menstrual cycle.  From:  Jenabi, E., & Fereidoony, B. (2015). Effect of Achillea millefolium on relief of primary dysmenorrhea: a double-blind randomized clinical trial. Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology, 28(5), 402-404.
• The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle was made more regular with Vitex agnus-castus (chaste tree) extract and two women with latent hyperprolactinemia got pregnant in a randomized placebo controlled double blind study of 52 women.  From:  Milewicz, A., Gejdel, E., Sworen, H., Sienkiewicz, K., Jedrzejak, J., Teucher, T., & Schmitz, H. (1993). Vitex agnus castus extract in the treatment of luteal phase defects due to latent hyperprolactinemia. Results of a randomized placebo-controlled double-blind study. Arzneimittel-forschung, 43(7), 752-756.
• This articles reviews research on herbs for treating menstrual pain. Herbs included: ginger, German chamomile, mint, valerian, cramp bark, black haw, fennel, lemon balm, cumin, and cinnamon. From: Rajabzadeh, F., Fazljou, S. M., Khodaie, L., Abbasalizadeh, S., & Sahebi, L. (2018). Effects of hot temperament herbs on primary Dysmenorrhea: a systematic review. Middle East Journal of Family Medicine, 7(10), 257.
• This paper reviews the use of Chinese herbs to treat painful menstrual cramps.  From:  Jia, W., Wang, X., Xu, D., Zhao, A., & Zhang, Y. (2006). Common traditional Chinese medicinal herbs for dysmenorrhea. Phytotherapy Research, 20(10), 819-824.
• Vitex agnus castus extract reduced cyclical mastalgia in this placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind study, and without increase adverse effects compared to the placebo.  From:  Halaska, M., Beles, P., Gorkow, C., & Sieder, C. (1999). Treatment of cyclical mastalgia with a solution containing a Vitex agnus castus extract: results of a placebo-controlled double-blind study. The Breast, 8(4), 175-181.
• A review of the use of fennel to treat women’s health conditions is provided. Conditions include premenstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, menopause, amenorrhea, lactation and polycystic ovarian syndrome. From: Mahboubi, M. (2019). Foeniculum vulgare as Valuable Plant in Management of Women’s Health. Journal of menopausal medicine, 25(1), 1-14.
• Key herbs used in Persian folk remedies to treat menstrual complaints and their dosage amounts is reviewed. From: Ghafari, S., Tavakoli, Z., Shirooyeh, P., Meybodi, R. N., Behmanesh, E., Mokaberinejad, R., … & Fahimi, S. (2018). The herbal medicine proposed by Iranian Traditional Medicine (Persian Medicine) for treatment of primary Dysmenorrhea: A Review. Traditional and Integrative Medicine, 30-42.
• In a randomized controlled study of 60 women with premenstrual syndrome, inhalation of clary sage essential oil aroma increased parasympathetic activity. From: Geethanjali, S., Venugopal, V., Poonguzhali, S., & Maheshkumar, K. (2020). Effect of clary sage oil as an aromatherapy on cardiac autonomic function among patients with premenstrual syndrome–A Randomized controlled study. Obesity Medicine, 100193.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

• Aloe reduced polycystic ovarian syndrome in rats related to  a steroidogenic effect.  From: Maharjan, R., Nagar, P. S., & Nampoothiri, L. (2010). Effect of Aloe barbadensis Mill. formulation on Letrozole induced polycystic ovarian syndrome rat model.
• In female mice, aloe gel had a hypolipidemic effect and reduced polycystic ovarian syndrome symptoms.  From:  Desai, B. N., Maharjan, R. H., & Nampoothiri, L. P. (2012). Aloe barbadensis Mill. formulation restores lipid profile to normal in a letrozole-induced polycystic ovarian syndrome rat model. Pharmacognosy research, 4(2), 109.
• In a double blind randomized study with 84 overweight women with polycystic ovary syndrome, taking a 1500 mg of cinnamon daily for 8 weeks improved antioxidant, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, all risk factors in the disease. From: Borzoei, A., Rafraf, M., Niromanesh, S., Farzadi, L., Narimani, F., & Doostan, F. (2018). Effects of cinnamon supplementation on antioxidant status and serum lipids in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of traditional and complementary medicine, 8(1), 128-133.
• A review of the use of fennel to treat women’s health conditions is provided. Conditions include premenstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, menopause, amenorrhea, lactation and polycystic ovarian syndrome. From: Mahboubi, M. (2019). Foeniculum vulgare as Valuable Plant in Management of Women’s Health. Journal of menopausal medicine, 25(1), 1-14.
• Herbs used to treat polycystic ovarian syndrome in traditional Persian medicine is reviewed. From: Hosseinkhani, A., Asadi, N., Pasalar, M., & Zarshenas, M. M. (2018). Traditional Persian Medicine and management of metabolic dysfunction in polycystic ovary syndrome. Journal of traditional and complementary medicine, 8(1), 17-23.

Breast Feeding

• Peppermint gel in breastfeeding women resulted in less nipple cracks and was more effective than lanolin. From:  Melli, M. S., Rashidi, M. R., Nokhoodchi, A., Tagavi, S., Farzadi, L., Sadaghat, K., … & Sheshvan, M. K. (2007). A randomized trial of peppermint gel, lanolin ointment, and placebo gel to prevent nipple crack in primiparous breastfeeding women. Medical Science Monitor, 13(9), CR406-CR411.
• Peppermint water was effective in the prevention of nipple pain and damage from breast feeding. From:  Melli, M. S., Rashidi, M. R., Delazar, A., Madarek, E., Maher, M. H. K., Ghasemzadeh, A., … & Tahmasebi, Z. (2007). Effect of peppermint water on prevention of nipple cracks in lactating primiparous women: a randomized controlled trial. International breastfeeding journal, 2(1), 1.
• The present study shows that colic in breastfed infant improves within 1 week of treatment with an extract based on Matricariae recutita, Foeniculum vulgare and Melissa officinalis. From:  Savino, F., Cresi, F., Castagno, E., Silvestro, L., & Oggero, R. (2005). A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial of a standardized extract of Matricariae recutita, Foeniculum vulgare and Melissa officinalis (ColiMil®) in the treatment of breastfed colicky infants. Phytotherapy research, 19(4), 335-340.
• A review of the use of fennel to treat women’s health conditions is provided. Conditions include premenstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, menopause, amenorrhea, lactation and polycystic ovarian syndrome. From: Mahboubi, M. (2019). Foeniculum vulgare as Valuable Plant in Management of Women’s Health. Journal of menopausal medicine, 25(1), 1-14.

Pregnancy / Delivery

• In a randomized, controlled study with 88 women during childbirth, the group who received neroli aromatherapy helped relieve anxiety and perceived pain.  From:  Scandurra, C., et all. (2022). The Effectiveness of Neroli Essential Oil in Relieving Anxiety and Perceived Pain in Women during Labor: A Randomized Controlled Trial. In Healthcare (Vol. 10, No. 2, p. 366). MDPI.

  Inflammation was reduced in pregnant women who took an omega-3 flaxseed supplement for 25 weeks.  Inflammation declined in both maternal adipose and placental tissue.  From:  Kordoni, M. E., & Panagiotakos, D. (2018). Can Dietary Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation Reduce Inflammation in Obese Pregnant Women: A Discussion of a Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Clinical Trial. Hellenic Journal οf Atherosclerosis, 8(4).

• In a review of studies, the author found Matricaria chamomilla, elettaria cardamomum, pomegranate and spearmint syrup, lemon, and ginger to help pregnant women with nausea. From: Khorasani, F., Aryan, H., Sobhi, A., Aryan, R., Abavi-Sani, A., Ghazanfarpour, M., … & Rajab Dizavandi, F. (2019). A systematic review of the efficacy of alternative medicine in the treatment of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 1-10.
• In a randomized trial with 130 women, the aroma of chamomile had no effect on duration and number of contractions, but it did decrease the intensity of contractions during dilatation of 5–7 cm. From: Heidari-fard, S., Mohammadi, M., & Fallah, S. (2018). The effect of chamomile odor on contractions of the first stage of delivery in primpara women: A clinical trial. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 32, 61-64.
• Women with high risk pregnancy who inhaled small amounts of neroli essential oil for 2 minutes, three times a day, for five days, had reduced anxiety.  From:  Go, G. Y., & Park, H. (2017). Effects of Aroma Inhalation Therapy on Stress, Anxiety, Depression, and the Autonomic Nervous System in High-risk Pregnant Women. Korean Journal of Women Health Nursing, 23(1), 33-41.
• In a randomized clinical study with 156 women in labor, aroma of Salvia officiale reduced pain during labor compared to the placebo and to the aroma of Jasminum officinale.  From:  Kaviani, M., Maghbool, S., Azima, S., & Tabaei, M. H. (2014). Comparison of the effect of aromatherapy with Jasminum officinale and Salvia officinale on pain severity and labor outcome in nulliparous women. Iranian journal of nursing and midwifery research, 19(6), 666.
• In a randomized clinical trial of 63 women during labor, inhaling the aroma of neroli reduced anxiety during labor compared to the non-treated group.  From:  Namazi, M., Akbari, S. A. A., Mojab, F., Talebi, A., Majd, H. A., & Jannesari, S. (2014). Aromatherapy with citrus aurantium oil and anxiety during the first stage of labor. Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal, 16(6).
• This study of 120 women in labor demonstrated that the group that received aromatherapy with essential oils of either rose and/or lavender had reduced pain compared to the control group.  From:  Chughtai, A., Navaee, M., Alijanvand, M. H., & Yaghoubinia, F. (2018). Comparing the Effect of Aromatherapy With Essential Oils of Rosa damascena and Lavender Alone and in Combination on Severity of Pain in the First Phase of Labor in Primiparous Women. Crescent Journal of Medical and Biological Sciences, 5(4), 312-319.
• Plants that have shown to affect female fertility were reviewed.  From:  Al-Snafi, A. E. (2018). Arabian medicinal plants affected female fertility-plant based review (part 1). IOSR Journal of Pharmacy, 8(7), 46-62.
• In a study with 110 women in their first stage of labor, the group receiving rose aromatherapy had reduced anxiety and pain.  From:  Hamdamian, S., Nazarpour, S., Simbar, M., Hajian, S., Mojab, F., & Talebi, A. (2018). Effects of aromatherapy with Rosa damascena on nulliparous women’s pain and anxiety of labor during first stage of labor. Journal of integrative medicine, 16(2), 120-125.
• In a study of 111 women giving birth, rose water poured over the hands of women in labor significantly reduced pain compared to the placebo.  From:  Roozbahani, N., Attarha, M., AkbariTorkestani, N., AmiriFarahani, L., & Heidari, T. (2015). The effect of rose water aromatherapy on reducing labor pain in primiparous women. Complementary Medicine Journal of faculty of Nursing & Midwifery, 5(1), 1042-1053.
• In a study of 120 pregnant women with lower back pain, rose oil in an almond carrier oil applied topically over 4 weeks significantly reduced pain without side effects.  From:  Shirazi, M., Mohebitabar, S., Bioos, S., Yekaninejad, M. S., Rahimi, R., Shahpiri, Z., … & Nejatbakhsh, F. (2017). The effect of topical Rosa damascena (rose) oil on pregnancy-related low back pain: a randomized controlled clinical trial. Journal of evidence-based complementary & alternative medicine, 22(1), 120-126.
• In a study of 105 women in their 35 – 37th week of pregnancy, the test group dropped 7 drops of lavender and 1 drop of rose water into a washcloth and took 10 deep breaths in before putting it next to their pillow for the night.  The control group did the same with sesame oil.  The study was conducted until 6 weeks post delivery. The aromatherapy group had significantly lower postpartum depression.  From:  Kianpour, M., Moshirenia, F., Kheirabadi, G., Asghari, G., Dehghani, A., & Dehghani-Tafti, A. (2018). The effects of inhalation aromatherapy with rose and lavender at week 38 and postpartum period on postpartum depression in high-risk women referred to selected health centers of Yazd, Iran in 2015. Iranian journal of nursing and midwifery research, 23(5), 395.  Read more…
• In a randomized controlled trial with 142 women who had just given birth, application of a chamomile oil on the abdomin improved postoperative bowel activity. From: Khadem, E., Shirazi, M., Janani, L., Rahimi, R., Amiri, P., & Ghorat, F. (2018). Effect of topical chamomile oil on postoperative bowel activity after cesarean section: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of research in pharmacy practice, 7(3), 128.
• In a randomized clinical study with 130 women giving birth, the aroma of chamomile safely reduced anxiety without changing the delivery outcome. From: Rahnavardi, M., Heydarifard, S., & Mohammadi, M. (2018). The Effect of Chamomile Odor on Anxiety and Some Consequences of Delivery in Primiparous Women. Journal of Health and Care, 20(3), 235-243.
• In this randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial of 178 post cesarean section patients, the group who received a ginger powder supplement had less severity of abdominal distention and a better ability to eat four days after operation. From: Tianthong, W., & Phupong, V. (2018). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on the efficacy of ginger in the prevention of abdominal distention in post cesarean section patients. Scientific reports, 8(1), 6835.
• This study included 120 women who had a vaginal delivery with an episiotomy.  Half received lavender oil and the other half received povidone-iodine to treat the wound.  The lavender group had significantly less redness and pain with no side effects.   From:  Vakilian, K., Atarha, M., Bekhradi, R., & Chaman, R. (2011). Healing advantages of lavender essential oil during episiotomy recovery: a clinical trial. Complementary therapies in clinical practice, 17(1), 50-53.  Read more…
• In a study of 89 women who had received an episiotomy, olive oil and lavender oil added to a sitz bath improved healing. From: Behmanesh, F., Tofighi, M., Delavar, M. A., Zeinalzadeh, M., Moghadamnia, A. A., & Khafri, S. A. (2011). A Clinical trial to compare the effectiveness of Lavender essential oil and olive oil at healing postpartum mother’s perinea. Healthmed, 5(6), 1512-6. Read more…

Estrogen Effect

  Fennel

• The article discussed fennel and anise used to increase milk secretion, promote menstruation, facilitate birth, alleviate male climacteric, and increase libido.  The main constituent of both fennel and anise is anethole, and it may be the active estrogenic agent.  From:  Albert-Puleo, M. (1980). Fennel and anise as estrogenic agents. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2(4), 337-344.
• Flavone derivatives from Achillea millefolium showed estrogenic activity in vitro.  From:  Innocenti, G., Vegeto, E., Dall’Acqua, S., Ciana, P., Giorgetti, M., Agradi, E., … & Tomè, F. (2007). In vitro estrogenic activity of Achillea millefolium L. Phytomedicine, 14(2), 147-152.
• Red clover extract had a mild estrogenic effect in rats.  From:  Burdette, J. E., Liu, J., Lantvit, D., Lim, E., Booth, N., Bhat, K. P., … & Farnsworth, N. R. (2002). Trifolium pratense (red clover) exhibits estrogenic effects in vivo in ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rats. The Journal of nutrition, 132(1), 27-30.
• Estrogenic activity of F. vulgare was demonstrated in genital size change of male and female rats.  From:  MALlNI, T., Vanithakumari, G., DEVI, N. M. S. A. K., & FIANGO, V. (1985). EFFECT OF FOENICULUAI VULGARE. MILL SEED EXTRACT ON THE GENITAL ORGANS OF MALE AND FEMALE RATS.
• Essential oils of eleven Pimpinella species and anethole as a major compound were studied and it showed that species with low anethole still showed estrogenic activity.  From:  Tabanca, N., Khan, S. I., Bedir, E., Annavarapu, S., Willett, K., Khan, I. A., … & Baser, K. H. C. (2004). Estrogenic activity of isolated compounds and essential oils of Pimpinella species from Turkey, evaluated using a recombinant yeast screen. Planta medica, 70(08), 728-735.

Vaginal Infections

• A combination of oral probiotics and a topical tea tree oil treatment reduced vaginal Candida in this small human study.  From:  Di Vito, M., Fracchiolla, G., Mattarelli, P., Modesto, M., Tamburro, A., & Padula, F. (2016). Probiotic and Tea Tree Oil Treatments Improve Therapy of Vaginal Candidiasis: A Preliminary Clinical Study. Med J Obstet Gynecol, 4(4), 1090.
• In a study with 127 women with bacterial vaginosis, a vaginal suppository herbal blend of Tribulus terrestris, Myrtus commuis, Foeniculum vulgare and Tamarindus indica was as effective as metronidazole in reducing symptoms. From: Baery, N., Ghasemi Nejad, A., Amin, M., Mahroozade, S., Mokaberinejad, R., Bioos, S., … & Amin, G. (2018). Effect of vaginal suppository on bacterial vaginitis based on Persian medicine (Iranian traditional medicine): a randomised double blind clinical study. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 38(8), 1110-1114.
• In a double blind study including eighty women with bacterial vaginosis, Calendula officinalis was equally as effective as metronidazole at clearing symptoms after one week of use.  From:  Pazhohideh, Z., Mohammadi, S., Bahrami, N., Mojab, F., Abedi, P., & Maraghi, E. (2018). The effect of Calendula officinalis versus metronidazole on bacterial vaginosis in women: A double-blind randomized controlled trial. Journal of advanced pharmaceutical technology & research, 9(1), 15.
• A variety of 31 essential oils were tested against over 600 vaginal organisms with spanish oregano, ceylon cinnamon, Chinese cinnamon, thyme, savory, creeping thyme and turpentine resin showing the strongest activity.  From:  Arnal-Schnebelen, B., Hadji-Minaglou, F., Peroteau, J. F., Ribeyre, F., & De Billerbeck, V. G. (2004). Essential oils in infectious gynaecological disease: a statistical study of 658 cases. International Journal of Aromatherapy, 14(4), 192-197.
• Lemongrass, palmarosa, lavender and rose scented geranium showed in vitro activity against pathogenic vaginal microorganisms.  From:  Schwiertz, A., Duttke, C., Hild, J., & Mueller, H. J. (2006). In vitro activity of essential oils on microorganisms isolated from vaginal infections. International Journal of Aromatherapy, 16(3), 169-174.
• Terpinen-4-ol was active against candida species in the rat vagina.  From:  Mondello, F., De Bernardis, F., Girolamo, A., Cassone, A., & Salvatore, G. (2006). In vivo activity of terpinen-4-ol, the main bioactive component of Melaleuca alternifolia Cheel (tea tree) oil against azole-susceptible and-resistant human pathogenic Candida species. BMC infectious diseases, 6(1), 158.
• This mega-analysis discussed the research on the therapeutic actions of bergamot.  Modern medicine utilizes the plant as an antiseptic and antibacterial.  Human studies have demonstrated the aroma to be anxiolytic and help with insomnia.  Italian folk remedies rely on the plant to reduce fever, and as an anti-parasite, antiseptic, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial.  It has been used by Italian people to treat skin, oral, respiratory, urinary, and vaginal infections.  From:  Navarra, M., Mannucci, C., Delbò, M., & Calapai, G. (2015). Citrus bergamia essential oil: from basic research to clinical application. Frontiers in pharmacology, 6, 36.
• Tea tree oil was effective against vaginal Candida ssp. In vitro.  From:  Di Vito, M., Mattarelli, P., Modesto, M., Girolamo, A., Ballardini, M., Tamburro, A., … & Mondello, F. (2015). In vitro activity of tea tree oil vaginal suppositories against Candida spp. and probiotic vaginal microbiota. Phytotherapy Research, 29(10), 1628-1633.
• In a double blind study, tea tree may have reduced the recurrent herpes labialis virus (RHL) or cold sores but further research is necessary.  From:  Carson, C. F., Ashton, L., Dry, L., Smith, D. W., & Riley, T. V. (2001). Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil gel (6%) for the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis. Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, 48(3), 450-451.
• A review of the use of fennel to treat women’s health conditions is provided. Conditions include premenstrual disorders, dysmenorrhea, menopause, amenorrhea, lactation and polycystic ovarian syndrome. From: Mahboubi, M. (2019). Foeniculum vulgare as Valuable Plant in Management of Women’s Health. Journal of menopausal medicine, 25(1), 1-14.

Hirsutism

  Spearmint

• Spearmint tea showed antiandrogenic activity and might be useful in treating mild hirsutism in women.  From:  Akdoğan, M., Tamer, M. N., Cüre, E., Cüre, M. C., Köroğlu, B. K., & Delibaş, N. (2007). Effect of spearmint (Mentha spicata Labiatae) teas on androgen levels in women with hirsutism. Phytotherapy Research, 21(5), 444-447.
• Drinking spearmint tea had antiandrogen properties in women with hirsutism.  From:  Grant, P. (2010). Spearmint herbal tea has significant anti‐androgen effects in polycystic ovarian syndrome. a randomized controlled trial. Phytotherapy Research, 24(2), 186-188.
• Used as an estrogenic agent, fennel reduced hirsutism in females. From:  Javidnia, K., et al. “Antihirsutism activity of fennel (fruits of Foeniculum vulgare) extract–a double-blind placebo controlled study.” Phytomedicine 10.6 (2003): 455-458.

By: Kathy Sadowski

Updated:  5/12/2022