Emmenagogue Spices – Emmenagogue spices & herbs (also spelled emmenagogs) are stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus; some stimulate menstruation. Women use emmenagogues to stimulate menstrual flow when menstruation is absent for reasons other than pregnancy, such as hormonal disorders or conditions like oligomenorrhea (light menses).
They can also be used to stimulate menstruation when a woman desires to control the timing, e.g. ensure she is period-free for a special event such as a wedding or vacation, or to bring regularity to an otherwise irregular menstrual cycle.
Scientific backing for claims that certain herbs and foods can induce a period is lacking; however, there is plenty of anecdotal evidence and folk wisdom suggesting that some foods can help start a late period naturally. Emmenagogue foods, or emmenagogic foods, are foods and herbs that have been reported to stimulate blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus and that are believed to stimulate menstruation.
The common kitchen herbs basil, rosemary, sage, marjoram, and oregano have been used as emmenagogues in many cultures.