Pueraria Mirifica
A Thai root with unusually potent phytoestrogens. Small trials show it helps vaginal atrophy symptoms, mostly as a gel; the breast-enlargement claims that sell it have no evidence at all.
Where to buy
Ships to 180+ countries · welcome discount for new customers
Referral link — this site may earn a commission on purchases.
What the science says
- Vaginal atrophy symptoms Limited evidence
In a 12-week randomized comparison in 82 postmenopausal women, Pueraria mirifica gel reduced vaginal symptom scores as much as conjugated estrogen cream, although estrogen was significantly better on the objective vaginal maturation index.
- Menopausal symptom scores Limited evidence
A double-blind trial in 52 hysterectomized women compared 25 mg and 50 mg oral doses over 6 months. Climacteric scores fell similarly with both, but there was no placebo arm, so how much of that is the herb is unknown.
- Part of a broader phytoestrogen literature Limited evidence
A systematic review of 33 randomized trials of phytoestrogens for urogenital menopause symptoms included Pueraria mirifica among agents that improved symptoms, and found vaginally applied preparations worked better than oral ones.
Dosage & safety
How to take it
Interactions
With medications
- tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors
Strong phytoestrogens can oppose the whole point of anti-estrogen therapy. do not combine
- hormone therapy and estrogen-containing contraceptives
Additive estrogenic effect with unknown endometrial consequences. do not combine without medical supervision
With other supplements
- other phytoestrogens (soy isoflavones, red clover, black cohosh)
Additive estrogenic load, and miroestrol is far more potent than isoflavones. use one at a time, not stacked
Well-established interactions only — this is not a complete list. Always tell your doctor and pharmacist what you take.
Frequently asked questions
Does pueraria mirifica work for breast enlargement?
No. The breast-enlargement claims that sell pueraria mirifica have no evidence at all from trials.
Does pueraria mirifica help menopause symptoms?
Evidence is limited. In a 12-week trial in 82 postmenopausal women, pueraria mirifica gel reduced vaginal symptom scores about as much as estrogen cream, though estrogen was better on objective measures, and oral menopause trials had no placebo arm.
Is pueraria mirifica safe?
Pueraria mirifica is a potent phytoestrogen: breakthrough bleeding, breast tenderness and menstrual changes are reported, and long-term endometrial safety has not been established. Avoid it with hormone-sensitive cancers, endometrial hyperplasia, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and alongside hormone therapy or tamoxifen.
How much pueraria mirifica per day?
Oral trials used 25–50 mg/day of standardised pueraria mirifica root powder; commercial capsules are often far stronger with no dosing rationale. Any spotting or breast lumpiness means stop and see a doctor.
Scientific references
- Comparison of Pueraria mirifica gel and conjugated equine estrogen cream effects on vaginal health in postmenopausal women
- Comparison of Pueraria mirifica 25 and 50 mg for menopausal symptoms
- Impact of phytoestrogens on treatment of urogenital menopause symptoms: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials
Related in Women's health
- Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) Strong evidence
- Inositol (Myo-Inositol) Moderate evidence
- Strontium Limited evidence
- Soy Isoflavones Moderate evidence
- Ipriflavone Limited evidence
- Evening Primrose Oil Limited evidence