Menstrual Cycle Duration and Timing for Rose Four Herbs Drink

Menstruation

How many days should menstruation last to be considered normal? On which day of the menstrual cycle should the Rose Four Substance Decoction be started?

chitta, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/10/07

Dr. Zhuang Yihui reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Menstrual cycles occurring every three to five weeks are considered normal.
The duration of menstruation can vary from person to person, with two to seven days being within the normal range.
The "Rose Four Substance Decoction" includes not only the four primary ingredients—Angelica sinensis, Rehmannia glutinosa, White Peony, and Chuanxiong—but also additional herbs such as rose hips, longan, red dates, black dates, and goji berries, which are known for their blood and qi tonifying properties.
Additionally, rose has the effect of soothing the liver and relieving depression.
The dosage of the included Chinese herbs is not high, but it is not advisable to consume it in excess or on a daily basis, as this may lead to excessive heat, resulting in symptoms such as acne, constipation, insomnia, and dry mouth.
A safer approach is to take it after menstruation ends, when there is a relative deficiency of qi and blood.

Reply Date: 2004/10/07

More Info

The menstrual cycle is a complex physiological process that varies significantly among individuals. Generally, a normal menstrual cycle can range from 21 to 35 days, with the average cycle lasting about 28 days. Menstrual bleeding typically lasts between 2 to 7 days, and both the cycle length and duration of menstruation can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal balance, stress levels, and overall health.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the Rose Four Herbs Drink (玫瑰四物飲) is often utilized to support women's health, particularly in relation to menstrual health. This herbal formulation typically includes ingredients such as Angelica sinensis (Dong Quai), Rehmannia glutinosa (Shu Di Huang), Paeonia lactiflora (Bai Shao), and Ligusticum chuanxiong (Chuan Xiong), along with rose and other nourishing herbs. The drink is believed to help invigorate blood circulation, nourish the body, and alleviate symptoms associated with menstrual discomfort.

Regarding the timing of when to start consuming the Rose Four Herbs Drink, it is generally recommended to begin taking it after the menstrual period has ended. This is typically around the 5th to 7th day of the menstrual cycle, when the body is considered to be in a phase of recovery and replenishment. During this time, the body is often in a state of "Qi" and blood deficiency, making it an ideal period to support the body with nourishing herbs.

It is important to note that while the Rose Four Herbs Drink can be beneficial, it should be consumed in moderation. Overconsumption may lead to adverse effects such as increased body heat, which can manifest as skin issues (like acne), digestive disturbances, insomnia, and dryness. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or a qualified TCM practitioner to determine the appropriate dosage and duration of use based on individual health conditions and needs.

In summary, a normal menstrual cycle lasts between 21 to 35 days, with bleeding lasting from 2 to 7 days. The Rose Four Herbs Drink is best taken starting from around the 5th to 7th day of the cycle, after menstruation has concluded. This timing allows for the replenishment of Qi and blood, supporting overall health and well-being. Always consider individual health circumstances and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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