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Lab study, 2026

Can plant-based supplements help with PMS and breast health?

Plant extracts (cinnamon rose, bearberry, oregano, milk thistle, ortilia secunda, sweetvetch, echinacea) have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in lab and animal studies. They are safe at supplement levels and may help PMS and breast health, but human studies are limited.

Early or limited evidence Not applicable (literature review, no direct study of humans)

What they did

Researchers searched scientific databases for studies examining plant extracts used in dietary supplements for breast disease, PMS, hormonal imbalances, and genitourinary problems.

What they found

The plant extracts showed properties that prevent cell growth, fight tumors, reduce oxidative damage, reduce pain, reduce inflammation, and kill germs in laboratory and animal studies. The concentrations of arbutin, flavonols, flavonolignans, hydroxycinnamic acids, and tannins in daily doses are considered safe. The extracts together may help with breast issues and PMS by addressing underlying causes and symptoms.

What it means for you

Plant extracts show promise in lab studies, but most evidence is not from research in women yet. We need actual studies in women with PMS to know whether supplements containing these extracts really help.

About the study

Original title
EXPLORING THE POTENTIAL OF A BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE FOOD SUPPLEMENT TO RESTORE THE FUNCTIONAL STATE OF THE MAMMARY GLANDS AND ALLEVIATE SYMPTOMS OF PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME
Authors
Sergey V. Korepanov, Evgeny V. Donskikh, О. В. Ремнева et al.
Journal
Bulletin of Medical Science
Year
2026
Study design
Lab study
What was tested
Plant extract combinations in dietary supplements
Open access
Yes
Original abstract

Women of reproductive age require effective and safe treatments for the prevention of breast diseases, including benign mammary dysplasia (BMD), as well as for alleviating symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Objective. This study aims to organize information regarding the pharmacological effects and safety profiles of plant extracts utilized in the management of breast diseases, PMS, hormonal imbalances, and functional disorders of the genitourinary system. Materials and Methods. A comprehensive search was performed for studies examining the properties of cinnamon rose extract, bearberry extract, oregano extract, milk thistle extract, ortilia secunda extract, sweetvetch extract, purple echinacea extract, and their combinations. This search utilized the validated bibliographic database of the US National Library of Medicine PubMed, as well as the Russian scientific online libraries eLibrary and Cyberleninka, and the websites of prominent regulatory agencies. Results. The plant extracts incorporated in dietary supplements (DS) exhibit antiproliferative, antitumor, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, as evidenced by both in vitro and in vivo studies. The concentrations of arbutin, flavonols (expressed as rutin), flavonolignans, hydroxycinnamic acids, and tannins (expressed as tannin) present in the daily dosage of the DS are deemed safe for human consumption. Conclusion. The synergistic application of cinnamon rose extract, bearberry extract, oregano extract, milk thistle extract, ortilia secunda extract, sweetvetch extract, and purple echinacea extract may yield beneficial effects for women suffering from bone mineral density (BMD) issues and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) by addressing the underlying pathogenesis and symptoms associated with these conditions. Additionally, it may enhance the functional status of the genitourinary system and improve hormonal profiles. When utilized in accordance with the provided guidelines, this dietary supplement demonstrates a favorable safety profile.

Reproduced under CC-BY.

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