Can Donghan Cai (Winter Cold Vegetable) regulate menstruation?

Generally, winter spinach (Malva verticillata) has a certain auxiliary effect in regulating menstruation, though its effectiveness is limited and it cannot solely improve menstrual issues. It should be consumed in moderation. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Winter spinach is a common vegetable containing vitamin C, B vitamins, dietary fiber, and minerals such as calcium and iron. Iron participates in hemoglobin synthesis and can help improve blood deficiency conditions, providing some benefit for light or pale menstrual flow caused by insufficient qi and blood. These components together offer some auxiliary effect in regulating menstruation. However, menstrual irregularities are related to multiple factors including hormone levels and emotional stress, so relying solely on winter spinach cannot significantly regulate menstruation.

Excessive consumption of winter spinach may irritate the gastrointestinal tract due to its cold nature, causing discomfort such as abdominal distension and diarrhea. Particularly during menstruation, excessive intake may worsen abdominal discomfort. Additionally, overconsumption might interfere with the absorption of other nutrients, which could negatively affect overall body regulation.

It is recommended to cook winter spinach before consumption, such as in soups or stir-fried with other ingredients. Intake should be reduced during menstruation. In daily life, maintaining a regular routine, avoiding excessive fatigue and emotional fluctuations, and consuming nutrient-rich foods such as lean meat, red dates, and spinach will better support menstrual regulation.