Evidence supporting the use of: Squaw Vine
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Squaw Vine (Mitchella repens) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American tribes and 19th-century Western herbalists. It was commonly recommended as a uterine tonic, especially in the context of preparing for childbirth and supporting various female reproductive complaints, including dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). Historical herbal texts, such as those by the Eclectic physicians, describe Squaw Vine as an ingredient in formulas intended to ease menstrual cramps and regulate menstrual cycles. However, these recommendations are rooted in anecdotal accounts and tradition rather than rigorous scientific investigation.
To date, there is a lack of robust scientific studies—such as randomized controlled trials or pharmacological research—specifically evaluating the efficacy of Squaw Vine for dysmenorrhea. The plant contains compounds such as tannins and saponins, but their direct effects on menstrual pain have not been substantiated in modern clinical literature. Consequently, while Squaw Vine continues to be found in some traditional and folk herbal formulations for menstrual issues, its use for dysmenorrhea is supported by tradition rather than validated by contemporary science.
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
Other health conditions supported by Squaw Vine
Afterbirth PainAmenorrhea
Cramps (menstrual)
Dysmenorrhea
Endometriosis
Labor and Delivery
Menopause
Menstrual Irregularity
Menstruation (scant)
PMS (general)
PMS Type A
PMS Type C
PMS Type D
PMS Type H
PMS Type P
PMS Type S
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)
Vaginal Dryness
Vaginitis