Ask Ayurveda

FREE! Ask Ayurvedic Doctors 24/7

Get expert answers from certified doctors anytime

Fast responses
1000+ verified doctors
/
/
/
Was this plant species helpful in infertility issues?
Gynecology and Obstetrics
Consultation #33310
286 days ago
992

Was this plant species helpful in infertility issues? - #33310

Dhivya Vasudevan
FREE

I have came across an article saying that, in Jamaican traditional medicine rivina humilis has the potential of helping infertility, womb related disorders, and menstrual disorders etc., is this true? Or scientifically approved? What should we do to prove that right or wrong?

Age: 27
Chronic illnesses: No
Consultation is closed

Doctors' responses

This is an excellent and very important question. It highlights the difference between traditional knowledge and modern scientific validation.

Is the Claim about Rivina humilis Scientifically Proven?

The short answer is no, not in the way that conventional medicine is proven.

Traditional Use: In Jamaica and other parts of the Caribbean, Rivina humilis (also known as dog blood bush, pigeon berry, or fertility bush) has a long history of use in traditional folk medicine. As you mentioned, it is a popular remedy for a range of female reproductive issues, including infertility, blocked fallopian tubes, and menstrual disorders. This traditional use is based on generations of anecdotal evidence and cultural practices.

Lack of Clinical Trials: While there are many articles and product descriptions that promote these benefits, there is a significant lack of controlled clinical trials to scientifically prove that Rivina humilis is safe and effective for treating these conditions in humans. Anecdotal evidence, or personal stories, is not the same as scientific proof.

Scientific Research so Far: Scientific studies on this plant have primarily focused on its chemical composition and properties like its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. These studies are often conducted in laboratories (in vitro) or on animal models, not on human subjects. For example, some studies have shown that the plant’s extracts have anti-inflammatory properties, which is a key reason for its traditional use in treating conditions like blocked fallopian tubes, as inflammation is a potential cause of such blockages. However, this is a long way from proving it can cure infertility in humans.

What You Should Do Given this information, it is crucial to approach this with caution, especially regarding your health.

Avoid Self-Medication: Do not start using Rivina humilis or any other herbal remedy without medical supervision. Traditional remedies, even if natural, can have side effects, interact with other medications, or be toxic if prepared or dosed incorrectly.

How to Prove a Plant’s Medicinal Properties Right or Wrong

Proving a plant’s medicinal properties requires a rigorous and multi-step scientific process. This is the same process that all conventional drugs go through before they are approved for public use.

Ethnobotanical Survey: Researchers first document the traditional uses of a plant in a specific culture or region. This is where the initial “folk knowledge” comes from.

Phytochemical Analysis: Scientists analyze the plant’s extracts to identify the active chemical compounds. This helps to understand what a plant is made of and which compounds might be responsible for its effects.

In Vitro (Lab) Studies: Extracts and isolated compounds are tested on cell cultures in a laboratory setting. This helps to see if the plant has a biological effect at the cellular level, such as antioxidant or anti-inflammatory activity.

In Vivo (Animal) Studies: If the lab results are promising, the plant is tested on animal models (like rats or mice) to see its effects on a living organism. These studies look at efficacy, dosage, and potential toxicity.

Clinical Trials: This is the most crucial step for proving human efficacy and safety. It involves three phases:

Phase I: Testing on a small group of healthy people to determine safety and dosage.

Phase II: Testing on a larger group of people with the specific condition to see if it is effective.

Phase III: Testing on a very large group to confirm effectiveness, monitor side effects, and compare it to existing treatments or a placebo.

Regulation and Approval: After successful clinical trials, the data is submitted to a regulatory body (like the FDA in the U.S.) for review and approval before it can be marketed as a medicine.

1434 answered questions
19% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

There’s no clinical evidence available.

13389 answered questions
39% best answers

0 replies

Rivina humilis, sometimes known as rouge plant or bloodberry, holds a place in various traditional medicine systems, including Jamaican folklore. Its role in aiding infertility, menstrual, and womb-related disorders is largely anecdotal and based on traditional use. While many plant-based remedies are grounded in centuries of herbal tradition, it’s crucial to acknowledge the gap in rigorous scientific validation when considering clinical effectiveness and safety.

From an Ayurvedic perspective, plants similar to Rivina humilis are valued for their potential to balance doshas, particularly those impacting the reproductive system. Such herbs may be suspected for their beneficial effects on overall reproductive health, but without clear scientific backing, it is difficult to firmly establish their effectiveness. Furthermore, the description of plants in Ayurveda often involves understanding its rasa (taste), virya (potency), vipaka (post-digestive effect), prabhava (unique effect) and its particular action on doshas and dhatus. Rivina humilis would need a deeper exploration in this context, which isn’t well-documented in classical texts like Charaka Samhita or Ashtanga Hridaya.

Scientifically, to prove or disprove the efficacy of Rivina humilis in treating infertility and other related disorders, a comprehensive set of studies would be required. This includes preclinical research, followed by human clinical trials to evaluate safety and efficacy. These studies should encompass pharmacological, toxicological assessments alongside rigorous placebo-controlled trials.

For those interested in exploring such remedies, caution is advised until substantial scientific evidence is available. Always prefer consulting with a health professional or Ayurvedic practitioner to understand the risks and benefits, and to consider other well-researched Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari or Lodhra for reproductive health. Do not replace any prescribed treatments with traditional remedies without proper medical consultation.

13354 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies

Rivina humilis, also known colloquially as rougeplant or pigeonberry, is indeed used in various traditional medicine systems, including Jamaican practices. However, when it comes to the Ayurvedic or Siddha traditions specifically, this plant does not hold a prominent place in the treatment of infertility or menstrual disorders. In Ayurveda and Siddha, treatments often focus on balancing the doshas and supporting the reproductive tissue, or shukra dhatu, to address infertility and related issues.

For scientific validation, the potential effects of Rivina humilis on infertility would typically require rigorous clinical studies. These would include both in vitro (lab-based) and in vivo (animal or human-based) testing to observe any pharmacological activity supporting reproductive health. To date, such extensive studies specifically linking Rivina humilis to fertility improvements are limited or unclear in mainstream scientific literature.

For addressing infertility through Siddha-Ayurveda, a tailored approach based on individual dosha imbalances, agni, and overall prakriti is essential. This may involve using more established herbs such as Ashwagandha, Shatavari, or Gokshura, which are known for their effects on fertility and reproductive health. Additionally, lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, and stress management are vital components of a holistic treatment plan.

To conclude, while traditional uses of Rivina humilis are noted, its scientific or canonical approval as a treatment for infertility isn’t well established. Clinical evidence is crucial to substantiate such claims. If you’re considering exploring traditional medicinal plants, consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic or Siddharen practitioner is advised to ensure safety and suitability based on your unique health needs.

13602 answered questions
29% best answers

0 replies

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


What to do for irregular periods with 8-9 months interval and weight gain at 24 years old?
What to do for irregular periods and prolonged bleeding lasting 25-30 days?
What to do for heavy bleeding during periods after 4 months for a 51-year-old woman?
How to treat moderate hydronephrosis and hormonal imbalance during perimenopause?
What to do for constipation and yellow vomiting during my 4th month of pregnancy?
What to do if my periods are late and I have muscle pain and weakness after typhoid treatment?
Why are my periods late by 2 days after taking Evecare Forte and Galactosure for 10 days?
How to increase breast size permanently without surgery and treat fibroadenoma?
What causes delayed periods after taking Himalaya Menosan tablets?
What to do for my wife who has abnormal bleeding after her period for 15 days?
What to do if my periods finish in 2 days with light flow and I have severe pain before they start?
uterine prolapse symptoms
Can I use Liver Amrit syrup during my 4-month pregnancy with high SGPT and SGOT levels?
What to do if my period is 15 days late and only a little came while using the bathroom?
How to treat a Bartholin cyst naturally without surgery?
What is the treatment for my wife's uterine fibroids and lesions found in her USG report?
What lifestyle changes and medications can help with stage 4 endometriosis and fibroids?
How to increase my height by 5-6 cm before I turn 18?
How to reduce dilated left lateral ventricle size during pregnancy naturally?
What to do if my period is late after taking the Unwanted 72 pill?
What to do if my periods haven't come for 6 months despite taking homeopathic medicine?
Can I give Ashol M syrup to my 15-year-old daughter with delayed periods and backache?
How to treat hormonal belly pain during periods at age 36 with a stressful lifestyle?
low milk supply in breastfeeding
What to do if my daughter is pregnant with high WBC count but has no symptoms?
How to treat irregular periods that started a year ago?
What to do if my period is 12 days late after typhoid treatment?
What Ayurvedic treatments can help my 4.9-year-old son with a 4 cm penis size before he turns 12?
How to use Ashwagandha and Shatavari to improve my dull skin and irregular periods at age 46?
How to treat prolonged menstrual bleeding in a 24-year-old female with irregular cycles?
How long does it take for periods to return after starting hormonal balance juice?
What medicine should my 40-year-old wife use for uterine swelling detected in ultrasound?
How to treat very light menstrual flow lasting only 2 days without pain?
Is it safe to eat Kalarchikkaipowder and kadukkai powder during the first trimester of pregnancy?
What to do if my periods are irregular and I might not be ovulating at 46 years old?
What to do if I haven't had my period for 3 months and had heavy bleeding before?
white discharge in women
What to do if my periods are more than 2 months late and usually late by 10-15 days?
How to treat hormonal acne and back pain during periods?
What to do if I had continuous bleeding after stopping a 21-day tablet course?
What to do for irregular periods with long intervals and weight gain at 24 years old?
Will stopping Transxemic tablets reduce excessive facial hair growth after 3 months of use?
What to do if I have a simple cyst on my right ovary?
How long does it take for a 4.1 cm fibroid to heal with Ayurvedic treatment?
How to increase height after periods at age 17?
Can I take shatavari and ashwagandha for ovulation with adenomyosis?
What to do for irregular periods and prolonged bleeding with uterine fibroids?
What to do if my periods are only 10 days long with black blood for 2 days for a month?
What causes brown discharge or light bleeding after periods and what should I eat for it?
angiokeratoma on labia
How to use Fenugreek seeds to increase breast size effectively?
What are the best times for a pregnant woman to consume saffron and why does my baby take too long to start walking?
excessive facial hair growth
Can I give She Care syrup to my 16-year-old daughter who has frequent cycles and cramps?
What home remedies can help with heavy bleeding and blood clots during my period?
What is an Ayurvedic regimen for pelvic hypertonia and stage 2 uterine prolapse?
Is it normal for my period to be late after taking Shecare juice for 3 months?
How to treat leukorrhea caused by pitta dosha for a permanent solution?
What to use to treat endometrial issues and fluid in the pouch of Douglas?
What should I do if my fasting sugar is higher than my post-meal sugar during my 5-month pregnancy?
How to treat uterus fibroids naturally?
How to restore my menstrual cycle after missing periods for two months while on Ayurvedic treatment for UTI and vaginal infections?
What to do if I have light bleeding 6 days after taking unwanted 72?
Can I use Hempuspa and Ashokarisht for uterine fibroids and to regulate my periods?
Can M2 Tone help my wife get her menstrual cycle back after taking medication?
Can I take ashwagandha for severe menopause issues and hot flushes?
Can I take Garbh Chintamani during pregnancy and what is the best Ayurvedic diet for healthy baby growth?
Can I use Krishna She juice for my irregular periods with black blood for a month?
What to do if I have grape-sized RPOC and brown tissue after a medical abortion?
Can I use Ahraloha tablet instead of iron tablets during pregnancy to avoid constipation?
endometrial hyperplasia with spotting
Why do I have stomach pain and diarrhea during my periods for the last 3 months?
What could be causing my wife's irregular periods that last only 2 days?
How to treat a Bartholin cyst that is causing pain and discomfort?
What to do if my periods have not come for 2 months after taking Ayurvedic treatment for white discharge?
delayed menstruation with pain
What is an anechoic cystic lesion on the right ovary and how should it be monitored?
How to treat bulky uterus, fibroids, and adenomayosis with heavy bleeding and cramps?
How to treat severe period pain on the first day for someone with PCOS?
Is it safe to take Suvarna Vasant Malati tablets during the last weeks of pregnancy?
What is the best Ayurvedic medicine for a smooth menopause transition in a 51-year-old woman with delayed and heavy periods?
Can Ayurveda completely reverse stage 2 uterine prolapse in a 45-year-old with varying symptoms?
pcos and unable to conceive
Is kapalbhati pranayama effective for uterine prolapse recovery and how does it compare to kumbhak Kriya and Anulom vilom?
Can I use Punsvanotablet for embryo development and heartbeat protection in the first trimester of pregnancy?
What to do if I'm bleeding for over 15 days after taking M2 tone at 19 years old?
What are the safe methods for abortion after an unplanned pregnancy?
What to do for irregular periods after normal thyroid and hormone tests?
How to treat acne during the luteal phase while using manjistadi and Avipathi?
Can I give one drop of Tulsi in 150 mL of water to a 3-month pregnant woman?
What dietary changes should I make for high TSH and uterine fibroids?
Is it normal to have prolonged periods after starting Ashokaristh at 14 years old?
What to do if my period is 50 days late after taking amla juice and vitamin C?
What to do if my periods are 2 months late and not flowing well, plus I'm gaining weight?
How to treat vomiting, nausea, acidity, and constipation during pregnancy?
How long is it safe to take Nagkeshar Churna during perimenopause until menopause?
Can Ayurveda provide a permanent cure for adenomyosis in a 40-year-old woman with heavy periods?
Can I use Punsvano tablets for embryo and heartbeat development in the first trimester of pregnancy?
What causes light brown discharge 10-15 days after my period?
irregular periods with less flow

Doctors for audio & video consultation

Latest reviews

Avery
9 days ago
This answer was super helpful and put my mind at ease. Appreciated the detailed and practical advice on what to actually try. Feeling more informed! Thumbs up!
This answer was super helpful and put my mind at ease. Appreciated the detailed and practical advice on what to actually try. Feeling more informed! Thumbs up!
Client_0a5cw8
10 days ago
very good, informative, detailed explanation and support is amazing. thanks.
very good, informative, detailed explanation and support is amazing. thanks.
Client_0a5cw8
10 days ago
informative, clear and intelligent. one of the best in ask ayurveda. thank you for all the help.
informative, clear and intelligent. one of the best in ask ayurveda. thank you for all the help.
Robert
15 days ago
Thanks for simplifying things! Your advice was spot on and super helpful for my UC. Feeling more at ease now, appreciate it!
Thanks for simplifying things! Your advice was spot on and super helpful for my UC. Feeling more at ease now, appreciate it!