Synopsis

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

Labisia pumila, commonly known as Kacip Fatimah, is a traditional herb used in Malaysia and neighboring Southeast Asian countries primarily for women’s health, including menstrual and postpartum care. Its use for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms—particularly PMS Type H (characterized by water retention and bloating)—is rooted mainly in traditional medicine rather than modern clinical research. Traditional practitioners have long recommended Labisia pumila for alleviating menstrual discomfort, regulating menstrual cycles, and reducing associated symptoms such as bloating and breast tenderness.

However, scientific studies specifically examining Labisia pumila for PMS Type H are limited. Some phytochemical analyses have shown that the plant contains phytoestrogens, flavonoids, and saponins, which may have mild diuretic and hormone-modulating effects. Small-scale animal studies and a few preliminary human trials suggest potential benefits in balancing estrogen and progesterone, and mild anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions, which could theoretically help with PMS symptoms.

Despite these findings, there is a lack of high-quality, placebo-controlled clinical trials directly examining Labisia pumila's efficacy for PMS Type H. Therefore, its use for this specific condition is best described as traditionally justified, with modest supporting evidence and a need for further investigation.

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