Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacologyDec 20, 2005

"Dang-Qui-Shao-Yao-San," a Chinese herbal medicine for menstrual pain, and its effects on uterine muscle contractions in the lab

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Updated Mar 25, 2026

Abstract

Dang-Qui-Shao-Yao-San (DQSYS) may suppress uterine contractions induced by prostaglandin F(2)alpha (PGF(2)alpha).

Dysmenorrhea is associated with elevated levels of PGF(2)alpha.
Nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs provide rapid but temporary relief with potential side effects.
DQSYS demonstrated the ability to inhibit spontaneous and PGF(2)alpha-induced contractions in rat uterine smooth muscle.
The study found that DQSYS also counteracted contractions induced by acetylcholine and KCl-depolarization.
These antagonistic actions may contribute to the effectiveness of DQSYS in treating dysmenorrhea.

Simplified

Dysmenorrhea is directly related to elevated level of prostaglandin F(2)alpha (PGF(2)alpha), and is treated with nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs. Though efficacy of the latter is rapid, the effect is temporary, and they cause many side effects to the liver, kidney and digestive system. Because of this, Chinese medicinal therapy is being considered as a feasible alternative medicine. In this study, Dang-Qui-Shao-Yao-San (DQSYS), one of Chinese medicinal prescriptions was selected. A 50% alcohol solution was used to extract the active ingredients and create a freeze-dried product. Using rat uterine smooth muscle in vitro, DQSYS was used to suppress spontaneous contractions and PGF(2)alpha induced contractions. Then acetylcholine, ergonovine, propranolol, oxytocin and KCl were used to analyze the physiological mechanisms. The results show that DQSYS has the antagonistic action on both PGF(2)alpha and Ach induced uterine contraction. Furthermore, it has the antagonistic effect on contraction caused by KCl-depolarization. These actions may be the major mechanism of the beneficial effect of Chinese prescription in treating dysmenorrhea.

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"Dang-Qui-Shao-Yao-San," a Chinese herbal medicine for menstrual pain, and its effects on uterine muscle contractions in the lab

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