Abstract:
Background. Painful cramps in the lower abdomen occurring during menstruation without obvious pelvic organic
lesions is known as primary dysmenorrhea. DSS is a traditional Chinese herbal formula consisting of 6 herbs namely
Angelica sinensis, Paeonia lacitifora, Ligusticum chuanxiong,
Poria cocos, Astractylodes macrocephala and Alisma plantago-aquatica in ratio of 3:16:8:4:8:4. Objective of the study.
To explore scientific research regarding the efficacy, mechanisms and safety of DSS in the treatment of PD. Material
and methods. We searched for studies published in electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, CNKI) over
the last years by using search strategy. We included randomized controlled trials and cohort studies that reported
the use of DSS for PD. The main efficacy outcome was the relief of menstrual pain intensity quantified by validated pain
scales including visual analog scale. Results. There were
twenty studies (2000 participants) it resulted that DSS
had an adjunct treatment effect on reducing the intensity of menstrual pain compared with placebo or no treatment
group with statistically significant difference (Mean difference =2.50, 95 % CI 3.00-2.00, p < 0.001). The DSS group
showed a reduced rate of recurrence. Most adverse events
are mild and transient, including gastrointestinal symptoms
and dizziness. DSS is used for the treatment of PD with anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and analgesic effects. The
major components of these formula, namely those of Danggui (Angelica sinensis) and Shaoyao (Paeonia lactiflora), can
regulate the synthesis of prostaglandins, improve blood
flow, and modulate the nervous system, all of which will
greatly relieve the pain. Conclusion. Danggui Shaoyao San
formula in treatment for primary dysmenorrhea has shown
itself to be a safe and effective approach with analgesia,
improved quality of life, and a decreased recurrence rate.
