A groundbreaking plant-based medication developed in Perth is offering new hope to the vast majority of women who experience monthly period discomfort, with a recent clinical trial revealing dramatic reductions in both physical pain and emotional symptoms.
Clinical Trial Reveals Significant Symptom Reduction
Research published in the International Journal of Women’s Health has demonstrated that Khapregesic, a natural anti-inflammatory created by local company Hey Sister!, significantly alleviates period pain. The study, which involved 84 women, was a randomised, double-blind, and placebo-controlled trial—the gold standard for clinical research.
The results were striking. The trial found that Khapregesic reduced pain by 136 per cent compared to the placebo. Even more impressive was its effect on premenstrual syndrome (PMS), with the product improving mood swings and mild anxiety by nearly 200 per cent.
A Personal Story of Finding Relief
For Perth teacher Daisy McCulloch, who lives with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Stage 3 Endometriosis, finding effective pain relief has been a long and difficult journey. Daisy McCulloch, 31, has struggled with severe menstrual symptoms since her teens.
"I’ve been dealing with difficult menstrual symptoms since my teens, and have tried a variety of approaches—from surgeries to different treatments," Ms McCulloch explained. Since she started using the plant-based product Khapregesic, she has noticed a profound change.
"My stomach is more settled, and I have a greater sense of calm—both mentally and physically," she said. "My cramps, nausea, and inflammation have eased from severe to mild-to-moderate. It’s become a valuable part of how I support my body during my cycle."
The Science and Future of the Plant-Based Pill
Khapregesic is derived from the bark of the Khaya senegalensis, or African mahogany tree, a plant with a history of use in traditional herbal medicine for menstrual cramps. Hey Sister! co-founder Rick Ferdinands said the product is gentle on the stomach and supports menstrual wellness through its "anti-inflammatory effects, strong antioxidant properties, and unique prebiotic compounds."
"The reason we did this clinical trial was to put some validation around those other symptoms. We wanted to measure a lot of those psychological aspects of PMS," Mr Ferdinands stated. The study also investigated long-term safety, with participants taking a dose three times the recommended amount daily for 28 days without issue.
This new data is pivotal for the company's regulatory status. While the current Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) approval warns against prolonged use due to a potential risk of liver damage, the latest findings have prompted Hey Sister! to amend its TGA application to reassure users of its safety. The company is also finalising its application for the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Looking ahead, the promising results provide a foundation for more extensive testing. "We’re working on our next strategy of doing it over three months and maybe even 12 months," Mr Ferdinands confirmed, ensuring the long-term efficacy of this promising natural period pain relief solution for women everywhere.
