Clinical Effects of Zataria multiflora Essential Oil on Primary Dysmenorrhea

Background: Dysmenorrhea is one of the most common gynecological complaints in women. The use of Zataria multiflora is recommended in traditional medicine for the relief of dysmenorrhea. Objective: The purpose of the study was to determine the efficacy of Zataria multiflora essential oil for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. Methods: This study was a randomized, double – blind, placebo- controlled, clinical trail. 108 adolescents 18 - 24 years, who complained of primery dysmenorrhea were graded mild, moderate and severe on the basis of a verbal multidimensional scoring system. Subjects were randomly assigned into three groups: The first group (N=36) received placebo, the second group (N=36) received the essence of Zataria multiflora 1% and the third group (N=36) received the essence of Zataria multiflora 2%. The trial medicines were administered as soon as pain feeling (25 drops q 4h orally). Subjects evaluated for 3 cycles. Intensity of pain was reported by using a 10-point linear analog technique and Multi Dimensional System. Statistical analyses were performed by the paired T– test and Chi – Square and ANOVA test. The accepted level of significant was p < 0.05. Results: After of intervention, Mean of dysmenorrhea severity was decreased from 7.8+/-1.6 to 7.4 +/- 1.8 in placebo group, from 7.3+/-1.5 to 3.1 +/- 1.5 in Zataria multiflora essential oil 1% group and from 7.5+/-1.7 to 2.6 +/- 1.4 in Zataria multiflora essential oil 2% group respectively. A significant difference was observed between two treated groups, and placebo (P<0/001). The evaluation of treatment is significantly improved in the treated groups compared with placebo, but it was not different between treated groups. In the placebo group, 66.7% of patients needed to use other medication to relief symptoms, but in 1% and 2% Zataria Multiflora essential oil treated groups, 41.8% and 39.9% of patients needed to use other medications, respectively (p< 0/008). Conclusions: The essence of Zataria multiflora can be used as a effective herbal drug for primary dysmenorrhea