India’s Arjuna Natural extends application of pain-relieving botanical blend to tackle menstrual cramps
Developed by Arjuna Natural, Rhuleave-K is a botanical blend containing turmeric and frankincense (Boswellia serrata) extracts that has shown in clinical trials to display analgesic activity for sports injuries and joint pain.
Beyond musculoskeletal pain, the firm has explored and discovered Rhuleave-K’s ability to alleviate menstrual cramps in a new clinical study.
“The formulation’s potency and efficacy in relieving menstrual pain were evident. This underscores its potential to provide relief across different domains of pain management.
“The exploration into menstrual pain relief represents a strategic move in response to evolving consumer demands, and emerging health and wellness trends. This new focus area is driven by our commitment to innovation and addressing unmet needs in women’s health,” Dr Benny Antony, Joint Managing Director of Arjuna Natural, told NutraIngredients-Asia.
According to Dr Antony, herbal remedies present a promising method to fill the existing gap in effective solutions for primary dysmenorrhea, which is characterised by intense cramping pain affecting the lower abdomen and pelvic areas before and during a period.
Typical methods of treatment comprise both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), heat pads, and regular exercise.
“Notably, NSAIDs have emerged as a cornerstone of menstrual pain management, often taken alone or together with oral contraceptives or progestins. NSAIDs function by inhibiting cyclooxygenase, the enzyme responsible for prostaglandin production and consequently pain-inducing uterine contractions during menstruation, to provide relief.”
However, NSAIDs have been linked to adverse effects on the kidneys, liver, and circulatory system, increasing the risk of thromboembolic complications.
Furthermore, data indicates that around 20% to 25% of women may not respond favourably or may not be suitable for these conventional treatments.
“While research has studied the analgesic effects of plant extracts, the demand for a more comprehensive solution for primary dysmenorrhea remains. This is where Rhuleave-K steps in, offering a natural pain relief option that demonstrates effectiveness even in a single dose.
“It is a viable, safe, and potentially more holistic alternative, catering to those who may not respond optimally to existing options and allowing women to enjoy their daily activities without interruption [during their period],” Dr Antony added.
Science-backed innovations
In a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study conducted at the Smt. Meva Chaudhary Hospital in Jhansi, India, 60 women suffering from moderate to severe menstrual cramps were allocated to two groups.
One group was given 1000mg of Rhuleave-K in two soft gels, while the other received a placebo. All soft gels used for this trial were provided by Arjuna Natural.
The participants were administered their assigned treatments only when the menstrual pain reached a severity of 5 or more on a 0-10 numeric rating scale (NRS). After dosing, they were evaluated every 30 minutes for six hours to track changes in pain intensity and pain relief.
It was found that the mean total pain relief was significantly higher in the treatment group (18.9) than the placebo group (1.5).
In addition, the overall difference in pain intensity following six hours of observation was 20 times better in the treatment group, as compared to the placebo group.
These findings, which highlighted the potential benefits of Rhuleave-K in relieving menstrual pain, were published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine in June.
“Menstrual pain is the single most prevalent gynaecological complaint that affects over half of women in their reproductive age, regardless of socioeconomic status.
“For many, the pain is so debilitating that it disrupts their daily routine, leading to diminished work productivity, missed days at work or study, and reduced sleep quality for at least several days each month. In severe cases, the cramps are accompanied by symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.”
As such, Arjuna Natural plans to conduct additional clinical trials to further assess Rhuleave-K’s potential role in providing fast-action menstrual pain relief and all-round support.
“This is part of our ongoing efforts to continuously develop innovative solutions and advance our product ranges to better meet the needs of women’s health. Our focus remains on staying at the forefront of research and development, ensuring that any new developments are based on solid scientific foundations and align with the mission of promoting wellness,” said Dr Antony.
