Abstract
Objectives: Primary dysmenorrhoea is a common complaint experienced by many females in
their reproductive years. The use of medicinal plants in the treatment of various gynaecological
conditions is on the increase, despite the limited evidence available regarding efficacy and
safety of their use. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the most recent
evidence relating to the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea with medicinal plants.
Methodology: A thorough database search was conducted using defined search terms, and
randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in English between 2008 and 2016, pertaining to
the use of medicinal plants (single use) for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea, were
assessed. Studies evaluating dysmenorrhoeal pain and associated symptoms as a primary or
secondary outcome were considered and assessed by two reviewers independently of each
other, using the JADAD scale and the Cochrane risk of bias tool.