A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in Japanese Pharmacology & Therapeutics demonstrated the efficacy of Venetron, a purified extract of Apocynum venetum, in supporting women’s health, specifically related to complaints associated with menstruation.¹

Rafuma (Apocynum venetum L.), has a long history of use in Eastern medicine for its ability to protect against the common cold, insomnia and stress relief.

Tokiwa Phytochemical developed Venetron (patent application no. PCT/JP2023/024654), a unique standardized rafuma leaves extract containing no less than 2% hyperoside and no less than 2% isoquercitrin that offers multiple benefits. The ingredient is distributed by Maypro.

Venetron has been shown in several placebo-controlled human clinical trials to support a positive outlook, alleviate stress, improve sleep quality, and reduce premenstrual and menstrual complaints.

In the current study, 42 healthy Japanese women were randomly assigned to receive either Venetron (50 mg) or a placebo daily for one menstrual cycle.

Women who received Venetron reported significant improvements of symptoms described in a Menstrual Distress Questionnaire. Areas of reported improvement included autonomic reactions, negative effects, concentration, and behavioral changes before menstruation, as well as pain, concentration, and control during menstruation.

Additionally, women who received Venetron showed significant improvement in the initiation of sleep and maintenance of sleep, as assessed by the Oguri-Shirakawa-Azumi Sleep Inventory (Middle-age and Aged version).

While this latest study’s results reinforce some elements of previous mood and sleep studies, it also demonstrates a strong condition-specific, measurable and perceptual experience, according to Maypro.

“Venetron is an exciting ingredient with long-term growth potential,” said Isabel Elias-Castro, president of the Maypro Global Nutrition Group, which distributes the ingredient. “Venetron neatly intersects with the growing women’s health category and the continued demand for sleep, mood and stress support—this new study just makes the case for this ingredient even stronger.”

Venetron has attained self-affirmed GRAS status and is available in water-soluble format as Venetron-W.

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