Ashoka (Saraca asoca) has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for treating menstrual irregularities and related gynecological conditions. It is considered one of the key herbs in Ayurveda for supporting female reproductive health, particularly for conditions such as menorrhagia (excessive menstrual bleeding), dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), and irregular cycles. Traditional Ayurvedic texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Ashtanga Hridaya mention Ashoka bark as a principal remedy for these concerns, often included in classical formulations like Ashokarishta.

The traditional rationale attributes Ashoka's benefits to its supposed ability to balance the "doshas" and strengthen the uterus. However, the scientific evidence supporting these uses remains limited. A few laboratory and animal studies suggest that extracts of Ashoka bark may have uterotonic and anti-inflammatory effects, but well-designed clinical trials in humans are sparse. Most of the available evidence is anecdotal or based on traditional knowledge rather than robust scientific validation. Therefore, while its use is strongly rooted in tradition, the quality of evidence supporting its efficacy for menstrual irregularity rates as modest.