Evidence supporting the use of: Eicosapentaenoic acid
For the health condition: PMS (general)

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Synopsis

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

Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid commonly found in fish oil, has been investigated for its potential role in alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The rationale for its use is based on the anti-inflammatory and neuroactive properties of omega-3 fatty acids, which may influence prostaglandin synthesis and neurotransmitter activity, both of which are implicated in PMS pathology. Several small randomized controlled trials and observational studies have examined the impact of omega-3 supplementation (often a combination of EPA and DHA) on PMS symptoms, with some reporting modest reductions in symptoms such as depression, anxiety, bloating, and breast tenderness. However, the overall body of evidence is limited and somewhat inconsistent. For example, a 2013 double-blind RCT published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that omega-3 supplementation led to a significant reduction in physical and psychiatric symptoms of PMS compared with placebo. Other studies have reported similar findings, but many have methodological limitations, including small sample sizes, short durations, and combination products rather than EPA alone. There is a lack of large, high-quality, EPA-specific trials for PMS. In summary, while there is some scientific evidence to support the use of EPA (and omega-3s in general) for PMS, the quality and quantity of the data are not robust. EPA is not a traditional remedy for PMS, and its use is justified by preliminary scientific findings rather than longstanding traditional practice.

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