Fennel for Reducing Pain in Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Lee, Ang, Lee, et al. Nutrients, 2020.
Study design: Systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 randomized clinical trials on fennel for primary menstrual pain, with searches across 20 databases.
- Pooled data from seven clinical trials (n = 502) showed fennel had an effect comparable to conventional drugs in relieving pain (SMD 0.07; 95% CI -0.08 to 0.21).
- Compared with placebo, fennel showed a favorable effect in reducing menstrual pain (n = 468; SMD -3.27).
- Only three studies assessed side effects, and one study reported mild side effects.
- The authors noted possible publication bias because of many small studies with positive results.
What it means for your product: The strongest scientific basis for positioning fennel in warm drinks for the women's segment. Label claims must still follow BPOM approval.









