Shepherd’s Purse and Women’s Health: Abnormal Bleeding, Hormones, and More – News-Medical

Report on the Therapeutic Potential of Capsella bursa-pastoris (Shepherd’s Purse) in Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

This report analyzes the traditional and scientifically validated applications of Capsella bursa-pastoris, commonly known as Shepherd’s Purse. The herb’s properties are examined in the context of its contribution to global health and sustainability objectives, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The utilization of this common plant highlights the importance of biodiversity (SDG 15) and offers a sustainable, nature-based solution for health challenges, aligning with goals for responsible consumption (SDG 12) and good health (SDG 3).

Botanical Profile and Sustainable Resource Management

Capsella bursa-pastoris, a member of the Brassicaceae family, is a globally distributed herb recognized for its rich phytochemical composition. Its sustainable value lies in its widespread availability and the concentration of bioactive compounds in its aerial parts, which supports responsible harvesting practices (SDG 12).

Key Bioactive Compounds

• Flavonoids: Includes kaempferol and quercetin derivatives, which are highest in flowers and fruits and contribute to the plant’s antioxidant capacity.
• Phenolic Acids and Glucosinolates: Contains sulforaphane and other organosulfur metabolites with recognized health benefits.
• Biogenic Amines: Features choline, acetylcholine, and histamine.
• Vitamins and Minerals: A source of Vitamins A, C, B-complex, and essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, and iron, contributing to nutritional well-being (SDG 3).

Therapeutic Applications and Contribution to Health and Gender Equality (SDG 3 & SDG 5)

The medicinal properties of Shepherd’s Purse directly support targets within SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by providing accessible remedies for common health issues. Its specific applications in women’s health also advance SDG 5 (Gender Equality) by addressing conditions that can impact quality of life and societal participation.

Management of Gynecologic Bleeding

Shepherd’s Purse is traditionally utilized as a hemostatic agent for uterine bleeding. This application is critical for women’s health and well-being (SDG 3).

1. Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Clinical trials confirm that hydroalcoholic extracts of the herb significantly reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. By providing an effective, plant-based treatment, it empowers women to manage their health, supporting gender equality (SDG 5). The European Medicines Agency recognizes its use for this purpose.
2. Postpartum Hemorrhage: Traditional use suggests a role in managing postpartum bleeding through uterotonic, oxytocin-like effects that promote uterine tone. This aligns with targets for reducing maternal mortality (SDG 3).
3. Mechanism of Action: Its efficacy is attributed to tannins, flavonoids, biogenic amines, and peptides that induce vasoconstriction and support blood clotting.

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

The herb’s rich polyphenol content provides significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, contributing to the management of non-communicable diseases (SDG 3).

• Inflammatory Pathway Inhibition: Extracts have been shown to reduce key inflammatory markers (nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, TNF-α, IL-6) by inhibiting NF-κB and p38 MAPK signaling pathways.
• Oxidative Stress Reduction: In animal models, Shepherd’s Purse reduced markers of oxidative stress while increasing the activity of protective enzymes like superoxide dismutase.

Hormonal Balance and Reproductive Health

While direct hormonal modulation has not been demonstrated in human studies, the herb’s role in managing menstrual irregularities is well-established in traditional medicine systems. Its use supports reproductive health, a key component of SDG 3 and SDG 5.

Other Potential Benefits and Sustainable Applications

The diverse bioactive compounds in Shepherd’s Purse suggest broader applications that align with sustainable and holistic health practices.

Antimicrobial and Wound Healing Properties

Sulforaphane-containing extracts exhibit antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains. This suggests potential for developing natural wound care solutions, promoting health and well-being (SDG 3) through sustainable resources (SDG 12).

Safety, Usage, and Responsible Consumption

Ensuring the safe use of herbal medicines is fundamental to achieving positive health outcomes (SDG 3). Responsible consumption guidelines are essential.

Contraindications and Safety

• Pregnancy: Use during pregnancy is contraindicated due to its potential to stimulate uterine contractions.
• Thyroid Disorders: As a member of the Brassicaceae family, high intake should be avoided by individuals with thyroid conditions due to potentially goitrogenic constituents.
• Adverse Effects: Clinical trials report good tolerability, with only minor transient gastrointestinal symptoms noted.

Methods of Use

1. Traditional Preparations: Commonly consumed as teas, infusions, or decoctions from dried aerial parts.
2. Modern Formulations: Available as standardized tinctures, fluid extracts, and as an ingredient in cosmetic creams and lotions for its antioxidant properties.

Analysis of Sustainable Development Goals in the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

The article’s focus on the medicinal properties of Shepherd’s Purse, particularly for women’s health issues, connects directly to the following Sustainable Development Goals:

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being: The entire article is dedicated to exploring a natural herb’s potential to treat various health conditions. It specifically discusses its use for bleeding disorders like “postpartum hemorrhage and heavy menstrual bleeding,” as well as its “anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects,” which are all central to ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being.
• SDG 5: Gender Equality: By concentrating on health issues that disproportionately or exclusively affect women, such as “heavy menstrual bleeding,” “postpartum hemorrhage,” and “hormonal balance and reproductive health,” the article addresses a key aspect of gender equality. Ensuring women have access to effective treatments for these conditions is crucial for their overall health, well-being, and ability to participate fully in all aspects of life.

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

Based on the health issues discussed, the following specific SDG targets can be identified:

1. Target 3.1: By 2030, reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births.
   • The article explicitly mentions the traditional use of Shepherd’s Purse for “postpartum hemorrhage,” which is a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Exploring effective treatments for this condition directly contributes to the goal of reducing maternal deaths.
2. Target 3.7: By 2030, ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health-care services… and the integration of reproductive health into national strategies and programmes.
   • The article’s primary focus is on managing “heavy menstrual bleeding” and supporting “hormonal balance and reproductive health.” These are core components of sexual and reproductive healthcare. The discussion of a “triple-blind clinical trial” on the herb’s effectiveness for this condition highlights efforts to improve available treatments.
3. Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage… including access to safe, effective, quality and affordable essential medicines… for all.
   • The article presents Shepherd’s Purse as a “traditional herbal medicinal product” recognized by the “European Medicines Agency” for reducing heavy menstrual bleeding. This supports the integration of safe and effective traditional medicines into the broader healthcare system, potentially offering more accessible and affordable options for treatment.
4. Target 5.6: Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights…
   • Effective management of menstrual health is a fundamental component of sexual and reproductive health and rights. The article’s investigation into a treatment for “heavy menstrual bleeding” supports women’s ability to manage their reproductive health, which is essential for achieving gender equality.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

Yes, the article mentions and implies specific indicators that can be used to measure progress:

• Incidence of postpartum hemorrhage: While not providing statistics, the article’s focus on treating “postpartum hemorrhage” implies that the rate of this condition is a key metric. Progress towards Target 3.1 could be measured by a reduction in the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage.
• Reduction in menstrual blood loss volume: The article refers to a clinical trial that “demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in PBLAC-measured bleeding.” The Pictorial Blood Assessment Chart (PBLAC) is a specific, quantifiable tool used to measure menstrual blood loss. Therefore, the “PBLAC score” or a similar measure of bleeding volume is a direct indicator for assessing the effectiveness of treatments related to Targets 3.7 and 5.6.
• Prevalence of women with heavy menstrual bleeding: The article addresses “heavy menstrual bleeding” as a significant health issue. The overall prevalence of this condition in the population is an implied indicator. A reduction in the number of women suffering from untreated or ineffectively managed heavy menstrual bleeding would signify progress.

4. Summary Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: news-medical.net