Evidence supporting the use of: Little ironweed
For the health condition: Menstrual Irregularity

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Little ironweed (Vernonia cinerea) has a longstanding place in traditional medicine systems, particularly in South and Southeast Asia. Traditional healers have employed Little ironweed for various gynecological conditions, including menstrual irregularities, based mainly on empirical use and ethnobotanical reports. Folk medicine practitioners believe it may help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce excessive bleeding, or ease related discomfort. Some ethnomedical surveys and compilations of medicinal plant use—such as those from Ayurveda and Thai traditional medicine—mention preparations of Little ironweed for women’s reproductive health issues.

However, the scientific evidence supporting these uses is minimal. A few phytochemical studies have identified flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones, and other compounds in the plant, some of which possess mild anti-inflammatory or spasmolytic effects in laboratory settings. Yet, there are no robust clinical studies or pharmacological investigations specifically validating its efficacy or safety for treating menstrual irregularities in humans. Thus, its use for this purpose remains primarily justified by tradition and anecdotal experience, rather than scientific validation.

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