Keywords
Traditional Chinese medicine treatment
Chinese medicine
Acupuncture
Clinical studies
Submitted : 2026-06-19
Accepted : 2026-07-04
Published : 2026-07-19
Abstract
Objective: To systematically review the clinical research literature on the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea with traditional Chinese medicine from 2020 to 2026, and to summarize the therapeutic characteristics of various traditional Chinese medicine treatments. Methods: Literature on the treatment of dysmenorrhea in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) from 2020 to 2026 was retrieved by computer in the China National Knowledge Network (CNKI) database. The therapeutic characteristics were summarized respectively from the directions of internal treatment and external treatment. Results: The results showed that TCM internal treatment methods, such as Chinese herbal decoctions (Shengyu Decoction, Danggui Shaoyao Powder, etc.) and Chinese patent medicines (Tongjingning Granules, Aifu Nuanggong Pills, etc.), emphasized syndrome differentiation and treatment. It has stable effects in regulating endocrine and reducing prostaglandin levels. External treatments such as acupuncture (Dong’s extraordinary points, seventeen vertebrae, etc.), acupoint application, auricular points, moxibustion, and thread embedding have obvious advantages in quickly relieving pain and improving accompanying symptoms, and there are various ways of operation. Conclusion: There are various methods of treating dysmenorrhea in traditional Chinese medicine, with definite therapeutic effects. Both internal and external treatments have different focuses. Combined use or in combination with Western medicine often yields better results and has the advantages of fewer side effects and a lower recurrence rate.
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