Effect of Eurycoma longifolia water extract (Physta®) on menopausal quality of life and mood states.

BACKGROUND: Herbal supplements are increasingly used to manage menopausal symptoms. Physta® is a commercial herbal ingredient containing Eurycoma longifolia standardized water extract, traditionally used for vitality. Its adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory properties promote hormonal balance, physical function, and sexual health, supporting its potential benefits for menopausal health. AIM: To investigate Physta®'s role in improving menopausal quality of life, mood states, and overall safety profile compared with placebo. METHODS: In this 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 138 females aged 40-55 with menopausal symptoms were randomly assigned to receive Physta® 50 mg, Physta® 100 mg, or placebo. MENQOL and POMS were assessed at baseline, week 6, and week 12. Safety outcomes were evaluated through biochemical tests, vital signs, and female reproductive hormonal profile. RESULTS: Physta® 100 mg significantly reduced total MENQOL scores by 33.9% from baseline to week 12 (P = 0.049) with notable improvements in the physical (-36.4%, P = 0.046) and sexual (-36.3%, P = 0.043) domains. Total mood disturbance also declined more in the Physta® 100 mg group (-38.6%) compared with placebo (-30.1%), although not statistically significant. No significant changes were observed in the vital signs and biochemical parameters, indicating the safety and tolerability of Physta®. No significant alterations were found in the female reproductive hormone profile, supporting its hormonal neutrality. CONCLUSION: Physta® 100 mg improved menopausal quality of life and mood without adverse effects, supporting its potential as a safe herbal therapy. Further studies with higher doses and longer durations are needed.