both stimulating and relaxing activity on uterine tissue. Its reported efficacy in the treatment of dysmenorrhea and endometriosis most likely lies in its effects as an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and analgesic. It is also thought to improve blood flow generally, specifically in the pelvis; thus it is used to relieve pelvic congestion syndrome and associated pelvic pain and uterine fibroids, which some herbalists consider associated with pelvic congestion and poor uterine circulation. Although it is sometimes touted as an herb for perimenopausal symptoms, alone it is traditionally considered a “heating” herb, which would actually exacerbate symptoms such as night sweats, hot flashes, irritability, and insomnia. However, in TCM these symptoms are also associated with yin and blood deficiency; thus in appropriately combined formulas, it can be used for the treatment of perimenopausal complaints.