Self-Reported Changes in Premenstrual and Menstrual Symptoms among Females Taking a Novel Multinutrient Supplement: A Pilot Study

Background Premenstrual and menstrual symptoms arise in response to cyclical hormonal fluctuations and encompass psychological and physical manifestations that may significantly impair quality of life. Treatment options are limited, demonstrate inconsistent efficacy and are associated with notable adverse effects. There is growing interest in evidence-based nutritional approaches, with several placebo-controlled trials demonstrating that certain nutrient supplements significantly alleviate menstrual cycle-related symptomatology. Objective This single-arm pilot study evaluated self-reported changes in premenstrual and menstrual symptoms in women taking a novel multi-nutrient supplement containing saffron extract, chamomile extract, essential minerals (chromium, magnesium, zinc, iron), vitamins (D, B6, C) and omega-3 fatty acids, using advanced encapsulation technology. Methods Forty women (mean age 33 years) with premenstrual and menstrual symptoms consumed the supplement daily for three consecutive menstrual cycles. The validated Menstrual Symptom Questionnaire (MSQ) and a 5-point severity rating scale evaluated symptoms at baseline and after each menstrual cycle. Results Overall MSQ scores decreased significantly from baseline to Cycle 1 (p = 0.0028), Cycle 2 (p < 0.0001), and Cycle 3 (p < 0.0001). Overall symptom severity scores decreased by mean 50.42% from baseline to Cycle 3 (2.58 ± 0.65 to 1.28 ± 0.83, p < 0.0001), corresponding to a change from distracting (moderate-severe) to barely noticeable. There were significant improvements in all measured individual physical and psychological symptoms from baseline to Cycle 3 (all p < 0.0001). By Cycle 3, 88% of participants agreed that the supplement reduced symptom severity, and 82% agreed that the supplement reduced symptom duration. Conclusions These findings suggest that this novel multi-nutrient supplement may be of interest as a nutritional approach to support women throughout the menstrual cycle, warranting further investigation in randomized, placebo-controlled trials. Clinical Trial Registry number and website where it was obtained The clinical trial was registered on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT07267728).