Systematic review, 2025
Does curcumin supplement help reduce PMS and period pain symptoms?
This review of 10 randomized controlled trials found that curcumin showed promise for reducing PMS and dysmenorrhea symptoms. Six out of 10 trials reported significant symptom reduction, and inflammatory markers were affected.
What they did
Systematic review of randomized controlled trials from multiple databases (MEDLINE, Cochrane Central, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, Google Scholar) from inception through November 12, 2023. Evaluated curcumin's effects on PMS and dysmenorrhea severity including physical, behavioral, and mood symptoms.
What they found
Ten randomized controlled trials evaluated curcumin using various scales including the Premenstrual Syndrome Screening Tool and visual analog scale. Six out of 10 trials reported significant decreases in PMS and dysmenorrhea symptoms. Six studies evaluated inflammatory markers (nitric oxide metabolites, BDNF, IgE, IL-10, IL-12, hs-CRP) and vitamin D status, showing significant associations.
What it means for you
Curcumin may help reduce PMS and period pain symptoms, possibly through anti-inflammatory effects. The studies used different methods, limiting comparisons. More research is needed to determine optimal doses and treatment durations. Potential interactions with iron metabolism require investigation.
10
Randomized controlled trials
6
Trials with significant symptom reduction
About the study
- Original title
- Curcumin, a bioactive supplement for premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea: A systematic review of randomised clinical trials
- Authors
- Shrateh ON, Jawed A, Shuja MH et al.
- Journal
- European journal of obstetrics & gynecology and reproductive biology: X
- Year
- 2025
- Study design
- Systematic review
- What was tested
- Curcumin supplement
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1016/j.eurox.2025.100432
Topics
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