Effect of Fennel-Valerian Extract on Hot Flashes and Sleep Disorders in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Trial
- Author:
Ensiyeh JENABI
1
;
Salman KHAZAEI
;
Soodabeh AGHABABAEI
;
Shirin MORADKHANI
Author Information
- Publication Type:ORIGINAL ARTICLE
- From:Journal of Menopausal Medicine 2023;29(1):21-28
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objectives:This study aims to evaluate the effect of a mixture of fennel and valerian extracts on hot flashes and sleep disorders of postmenopausal women in Iran. A randomized trial was conducted.
Methods:A total of 76 postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to either of the two groups: fennel-valerian extract or control.One 500 mg fennel-valerian extract capsule was given twice, daily for 8 weeks. The 500 mg oral placebo capsule (starch) was given the same way.
Results:The mean duration of hot flashes increased in both the groups over time (P < 0.001). The mean frequency and severity of hot flashes in the intervention group were significantly lower than in the control group, in the first and second months after intervention (P < 0.050). Women in the fennel-valerian extract group had a significantly lower Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score than the control group 2 months after intervention (P = 0.030).
Conclusions:This study found that fennel-valerian extract was effective for relieving sleep disorders as well as the severity and frequency of hot flashes compared with a placebo.
