Primary dysmenorrhea is a common condition and is estimated to occur in more than 50% of women of reproductive age. A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of a formulation containing dried extract of Apium graveolens (celery), Pimpinella anisum (anise), and Crocus sativus (saffron) on the alleviation of primary dysmenorrhea.This study was performed among female students with primary dysmenorrhea.

The participants were randomly divided into two groups and received placebo or herbal formulation for 3 days in each of 2 menstrual cycles. Visual analog scale was used to assess pain severity. The χ2 test, one-way analysis of variance, and the paired t-test were used for statistical evaluation. Pain severity was compared between the two groups. A significant change in the mean pain score was noted during the first (P<0.001) and second months (P<0.001) after the use of herbal formulation, compared with that in the placebo group. Female students given the herbal formulation had decreased pain severity. The formulation can thus be considered for treatment of primary dysmenorrhea.

The findings from the study are published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology Science. The formulation reduces menstrual pain on account of its effect on smooth muscle contraction and because its components - saffron, anise, and celery - possess a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect.