Fact Check: Can methi and ajwain regulate irregular periods within five days?

An Instagram post claims that methi and ajwain regulate irregular periods within five days. The claim is FALSE.

Claim

In an Instagram post, it is claimed that methi and ajwain regulate irregular periods within five days. The reel by eatfit247by_shweta says, "Are your periods delayed? They never come on time. Don't worry. Here is a very natural solution which was followed by our generations for a healthy menstrual cycle. The remedy is quick and won't take much of your time. Just you need to trust the process. Trust the remedy and be regular with it. To start with, boil one cup of water, add one teaspoon of methi seeds and one teaspoon of ajwain.

Let them boil Boil till the water is half. If you don't like the taste, you can also add some amount of jaggery. Strain it and have warm for at least 5 days bed time. Methi seeds help in accelerating the rhythmic flow of the menstrual cycle and the natural oils in ajwain help to regulate the hormones so they get in line to work towards your menstruation. Having this daily not only helps you in menstruation but also aids in digestion."

The claim can be accessed here.

Fact Check

The claim is FALSE. While methi and ajwain are known to offer some general health benefits, there is currently no scientific evidence or medical consensus supporting the claim that they can regulate periods within five days.

What are Periods?

Menstruation commonly referred to as periods, menses, or "that time of the month" is a natural biological process experienced by females during their reproductive years. It marks the cyclical changes in the body and typically begins between ages 12 and 15, signifying the onset of puberty. This cycle continues until menopause, which generally occurs between 45 and 50 years of age.

What are irregular periods?

A typical period lasts between 2 and 7 days and recurs every 21 to 35 days. However, about 14–25% of women experience irregular periods, which may include unusually heavy or light bleeding, early or delayed onset, severe cramps, or unpredictable cycle patterns. Irregularities can also manifest as missed periods for several months or spotting between cycles. Hormonal imbalances particularly involving estrogen and progesterone are common culprits.

Conditions like PCOS, use of birth control methods, breastfeeding, excessive physical activity, thyroid dysfunction, and intrauterine devices (IUDs) can disrupt the menstrual cycle. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as stress, smoking, and obesity may contribute to irregular menstruation.

What are the health benefits of Methi?

Methi also known as Fenugreek has been used as a valued spice since ancient times. Cultivated globally in 70 to 97 different species, fenugreek is recognized not only for its culinary uses but also for its therapeutic potential in managing various lifestyle-related conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, high cholesterol, elevated blood sugar, liver disorders, and testosterone deficiency. It is particularly appreciated for its rich dietary fiber and essential nutrients that promote healthy growth and development. Fenugreek seeds are packed with beneficial compounds, including fiber, phospholipids, glycolipids, oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acids, choline, vitamins A, B1, B2, C, nicotinic acid, niacin, and several other health-supporting components.

What are the health benefits of Ajwain?

Carom seeds, commonly known as ajwain are renowned for their nutritional and medicinal value. Also referred to as bishop’s weed or ajowan caraway, these seeds are packed with bioactive compounds that exhibit a wide range of therapeutic properties, including antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cytotoxic, antilithiasis, nematicidal, anthelmintic, and antifilarial effects. They also function as natural stimulants, sialagogues, stomachics, and carminatives, with aromatic and antiseptic properties that support digestive health and overall wellness.

Can methi and ajwain regulate irregular periods within five days?

The claim that consuming methi and ajwain can regulate irregular periods within five days is false. While these ingredients may offer some health benefits, there is no scientific evidence or medical consensus supporting their ability to "cure" irregular menstruation in such a short timeframe.

Fenugreek is commonly used in traditional medicine, has been recognized for its potential benefits in supporting various aspects of women's health. According to a review published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine, fenugreek has been widely utilized in ethnomedicinal practices across the globe to address women’s health concerns. The study highlights its potential therapeutic roles in enhancing lactation, relieving menstrual pain, managing symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome, and supporting women through menopause.

Ajwain is also valued in traditional medicine for its diverse therapeutic properties. A study by Aditya Khedekar et. al. highlights that ajwain exhibits notable antifungal, antioxidant, and antibiotic activities. It may offer certain health benefits in conditions such as loss of appetite, asthma and period pain.

While Methi and Ajwain are believed to offer some health benefits, there is currently no scientific evidence to support the claim by the user.

Dr Sindura Ganga R, Consultant Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Laparoscopic surgeon, Centre for Women and Child Health, Arete Hospitals told Health Dialogues, "I came across this viral claim that says methi and ajwain can regulate a regular periods within 5 days. Let's clarify this from a medical standpoint. While methi and ajwain are traditional ingredients with some digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits, there's no scientific evidence proving that they could regulate menstrual cycles within 5 days. Irregular periods could be because of multiple underlying causes like PCOS, thyroid issues, stress, or weight fluctuations and need proper diagnosis and treatment. Using home remedies blindly can delay necessary medical care. If you facing irregular periods regularly, please consult a qualified doctor. Don't rely solely on these viral hacks. Let's stay informed and prioritize safe evidence-based health choices."

Dr. Manjula Anagani, Padma Shri Awardee, Clinical Director, HOD CARE Vatsalya, Women and Child Institute, Robotic Gynecology, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad added "There is no scientific evidence that methi (fenugreek) and ajwain can regulate irregular periods within 5 days. Fenugreek contains plant estrogens and may reduce cramps over 8–12 weeks in PCOS, but it doesn’t change cycle length. Ajwain, due to thymol, helps ease pain but does not regulate cycles. Menstrual cycles are controlled by the HPO axis, and no herb can override this complex hormonal system in 5 days. Irregular periods need proper evaluation, so consult a gynecologist to identify causes like PCOS, thyroid issues, or stress and begin appropriate treatment.

Health Dialogues Final Take

The idea that methi and ajwain can regulate irregular periods in just five days is FALSE. While these herbs may offer minor health benefits, they do not substitute for medical evaluation and treatment of underlying hormonal or systemic issues. Menstrual health requires a comprehensive approach, not oversimplified remedies promoted through viral claims.

Hence, the claim is FALSE.