Evidence supporting the use of: Actaea spicata
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Actaea spicata, commonly known as baneberry, has been used in traditional herbal medicine, particularly in parts of Europe and Asia. Historical records and ethnobotanical surveys indicate that it has been employed for a variety of ailments, including rheumatic pain, nervous system complaints, and occasionally for gynecological issues such as menstrual discomfort. However, the documentation of its specific use for dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is sparse and largely anecdotal. Traditional texts occasionally mention Actaea spicata in complex formulas intended to "regulate menses" or alleviate "female complaints," but it is not a prominent remedy for this condition compared to other herbs like Actaea racemosa (black cohosh).
Modern scientific research on Actaea spicata is extremely limited, with little to no clinical data supporting its efficacy or safety for dysmenorrhea. Most pharmacological studies focus on its potential toxicity, particularly due to its glycoside content, rather than its therapeutic effects. Therefore, the use of Actaea spicata for dysmenorrhea is grounded primarily in tradition, with minimal supporting evidence and no robust scientific validation.
Other ingredients used for Dysmenorrhea
alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)black cohosh
calcium
chamomile
chaste tree
dong quai root
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
evening primrose oil
fennel
fish oil
ginger
magnesium
motherwort
omega-3 fatty acids
parsley
passionflower
peppermint oil
phytocannabinoids
vitamin B6
vitamin E
wild yam
gastrodia
anise
peony
dioscorea
trichosanthes
shepherd's purse
Avens
Ambergris
Angelica
Achyranthes
Anamu
Albizia
Alchemilla
Aletris
Anserina
Aerva lanata
Anemone
Actaea spicata
Agrimonia pilosa
Agnuside
Ashoka
Abuta
Arisaema
Blue Cohosh
Blepharis
Boswellia
Bethroot
Boerhavia diffusa
Cohosh
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Cyathula
Corydalis
Didymocarpus
Dong Quai
Erythropalum scandens
Eupolyphaga sinensis
Euphorbia
Pennyroyal
Poppy