The combination effect of basil leaves and red betel leaves as analgesic to reduce dysmenorrhea in reproductive woman

Dysmenorrhea, characterized by severe lower abdominal pain during menstruation, affects a significant proportion of women of reproductive age, impairing daily activities. The pathophysiology of dysmenorrhea is primarily linked to elevated prostaglandin production (PGF2α and PGE2) and heightened uterine sensitivity, which induce myometrial contractions, hypoxia, and pain. Factors such as stress, obesity, and family history contribute to its prevalence. In recent years, medicinal plants have emerged as alternative therapies to manage dysmenorrhea symptoms. Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) and red betel (Piper crocatum) are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties due to their rich phytochemical content, including flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils. Basil leaves inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) pathways, reducing prostaglandin synthesis, while red betel leaves enhance antioxidant activity and modulate inflammatory responses. This study aims to investigate the combined effects of basil and red betel leaves in alleviating dysmenorrhea symptoms. Despite the lack of experimental studies on their synergistic effects, their anti-inflammatory mechanisms—targeting prostaglandin production and NF-κB pathways—present promising potential for reducing menstrual pain.