INVESTIGATING THE ADVANTAGES OF PUERARIA MIRIFICA IN TRADITIONAL CHINESE SOUP FOR GYNECOLOGICAL WELLNESS

Abstract

The "Chen Su'an Gynecology Supplement," rooted in the wisdom of Chen Su'an, a renowned Southern Song Dynasty physician, has been enriched across generations by his 19th descendants, Sun Ming and Chen Wenzhao. This TCM masterpiece is comprised of five volumes, each addressing the regulation of menstruation, fetal health, prenatal conditions, labor, and postnatal illnesses, boasting a collection of 167 treatises. Drawing extensively from clinical experience, this work revolves around prescriptions and treatises, many of which are cherished family heirlooms. Late menstruation, a prevalent menstrual disorder in gynecology, manifests as an extended menstrual cycle, often exceeding 7 days, or recurring for 3-5 months or more in consecutive cycles, earning it the names "late menstruation" or "late period." In Western medicine, it is regarded as a symptom rather than a standalone condition, often linked to polycystic ovary syndrome, hyperprolactinemia, early onset ovarian insufficiency, diminished ovarian reserve function, and hypothyroidism. Late menstruation is associated with reduced menstrual flow and infertility, impacting both physical and mental well-being. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a valuable approach to address late menstruation by evidence-based cycle regulation, symptom relief, constitution enhancement, and overall health management.