An Experimental study to evaluate the effectiveness of Pudhina extract in reducing dysmenorrhea among adolescent girls in selected schools at Madurai

Abstract

The study findings revealed that primary dysmenorrhea and associated menstrual problems is prevalent among majority of the adolescent girls within 14-17 years of age. This problem definitely needs some form of intervention based on medical evidence. Menstrual problems can be managed by the adolescents themselves with the help of nature. Nature has abundant resources especially in the form of healing herbs. Among the easily available and safe herbs is pudhina. Each 100gm of pudhina leaves gives 48Kcal energy. It contains protein, Fat, Carbohydrate, fibre, Iron, Calcium, Folic acid, Carotene, Vitamin A, C, B3, B12, D, E other minerals. Pudhina has been considered valuable in spasmodic dysmenorrhoea or painful menstruation, especially in young girls. It is an excellent source of magnesium, its concentration of carotenoids, including beta-carotene. It works on an antispasmodic, natural antifungal and antibacterial used for menstrual cramps. Pudhina leaves are generally identified as safe herb to consume without side effects. Based on the prolonged result with zero adverse reaction of pudhina, and the results of the study, it can be stated that pudhina can be strongly recommended for dysmenorrhea. Pudina is easily available and is safe to administer. The study findings is supportive to the fact that there will be an overall improvement in an individual s health because of effect of pudhina s nutritive and medicinal values. The physical health of the adolescents includes their hemoglobin level. Pudhina consumed regularly in any form will improve the physical health of the individual. If the physical health of the adolescents is improved, it will definitely lower the menstrual distress and extent of dysmenorrheic pain. This in turn, will decrease the perceived stress related to dysmenorrhea among the adolescents. If stress is relieved it will enhance the academic performance of the adolescents even during dysmenorrhea. In conclusion it could be stated that pudhina has a beneficial effect in reducing dysme