Oxystelma, a genus in the Apocynaceae family, is referenced in several traditional medical systems—most notably Ayurveda and Unani medicine. In these traditions, species such as Oxystelma esculentum have been used for their purported anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and uterotonic effects. Afterbirth pain (postpartum uterine pain) is one of the conditions for which Oxystelma preparations have been employed, typically as part of multi-herb formulations aimed at aiding uterine involution and alleviating discomfort following childbirth.

However, scientific validation for this use is lacking. Published pharmacological studies focus mainly on general anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, or antimicrobial properties of Oxystelma extracts, with little to no direct investigation into its effects on postpartum uterine pain or uterine contractility. There are no well-controlled clinical studies or preclinical animal models substantiating its efficacy specifically for afterbirth pain. Thus, while traditional use is documented, the evidence base is limited to historical and ethnobotanical reports, and the reliability of these uses is not supported by modern scientific research.