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Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah)

Labisia pumila (Marantodes pumilum)
Evidence Level
Limited
4 Clinical Trials
5 Documented Benefits
2/5 Evidence Score

Labisia pumila, known across Southeast Asia as Kacip Fatimah, is a small flowering plant whose roots are brewed as a traditional women's tonic, mainly around childbirth and postpartum recovery. Modern supplements use a water or water-ethanol extract, sometimes standardized to its gallic acid and flavonoid content and sold under names such as SKF7. The plant is treated here as support during the menopausal life stage, not as a treatment for any condition. In a 16-week study of healthy women aged 40 to 60, a 400 mg daily water extract improved several quality-of-life ratings and some cholesterol readings compared with placebo, with no change in reproductive hormones. A separate trial in adults with excess weight found that a standardized extract lowered waist size and body weight. The trials are small and several were run or funded by extract makers, and long-term safety has not been established.

Studied Dose 400 mg/day water extract for 16 weeks in pre- and postmenopausal women; 280 mg/day for 6 months in a postmenopausal pilot; 375 to 750 mg/day of the standardized SKF7 extract in adults with obesity. EFSA judged intake safe for adults up to 350 mg/day.
Active Compound Water or water-ethanol whole-plant extract; standardized to gallic acid and flavonoids (e.g. SKF7).

Benefits

Quality-of-life ratings in peri- and postmenopausal women

In a 16-week placebo-controlled study of 197 healthy women aged 40 to 60, a 400 mg daily water extract improved self-rated memory and concentration, vasomotor symptoms, menstrual symptoms and sleep problems more than placebo. The outcomes were subjective questionnaires in a single population, and the proprietary extract was supplied by its maker.

Supported by Trial 1

Menopausal symptom and hot flush reports with a combined herbal formula

A 24-week placebo-controlled study in 119 peri- and postmenopausal women tested a formula combining this extract with Eurycoma longifolia. Menopause rating and quality-of-life scores improved in both the herbal and placebo groups, and the drop in hot flushes was not significantly greater than placebo. The product was a two-herb blend funded by its maker.

Supported by Trial 4

Waist size and body weight in adults carrying excess weight

In a 16-week phase 2 trial in 133 adults with obesity, a standardized extract taken at 750 mg a day lowered body weight, body mass index, waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio compared with placebo, with larger waist effects at the higher dose. The trial was conducted and funded by the extract's maker.

Supported by Trial 3

Cholesterol and triglyceride measures during menopause

In the 16-week study, total and LDL cholesterol improved versus placebo, and in a 6-month pilot in 63 postmenopausal women triglycerides were lower than placebo. In that pilot, blood pressure, body mass index, fasting blood sugar and most other measures did not differ from placebo, and the lipid changes were small.

Supported by Trial 2

Reproductive hormone levels in postmenopausal women

Postmenopausal women taking the water extract showed no change in luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone or estradiol compared with placebo, and blood counts and clinical chemistry stayed within normal ranges. This points to effects on wellbeing ratings without a measurable shift in circulating sex hormones.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 2

Mechanism of action

1

Phytoestrogen activity in laboratory studies

The plant contains flavonoids, phenolic acids including gallic acid, and saponins. In cell studies an extract showed estrogen-like activity, raising responses in estrogen-sensitive human cells grown without estrogen. Whether this carries over to estrogen-like effects in people is not established, and the human trials found no change in sex hormone levels.

2

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions in the laboratory

Laboratory work attributes antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity to the plant's flavonoids, ascorbic acid, beta-carotene and phenolic compounds, which can neutralize reactive oxygen species and dampen inflammatory signaling. These are test-tube findings and have not been shown as clinical outcomes in people.

3

Bone turnover markers in animal models

In ovariectomized rats, a model of estrogen loss after menopause, the extract moved bone turnover markers in a favorable direction, raising osteocalcin and lowering a collagen breakdown marker, although it did not prevent bone calcium loss. These results come from animals and have not been confirmed in human bone studies.

Clinical trials

1
Water Extract and Quality of Life in Pre- and Postmenopausal Women
PubMed

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 16-week trial of a 400 mg/day Labisia pumila var. alata water extract in healthy women aged 40 to 60 in Malaysia (Norhayati et al. 2014, J Med Food).

197 healthy pre- and postmenopausal women aged 40 to 60 (102 extract, 95 placebo).

Compared with placebo, the extract group reported better memory and concentration, vasomotor symptoms, menstrual symptoms and sleep, plus improvements in total and LDL cholesterol. Reproductive hormones (LH, FSH, estradiol) did not change and safety labs stayed normal. The quality-of-life outcomes were self-rated questionnaires.

2
Postmenopausal Pilot of a 280 mg/day Water Extract
PubMed

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 6-month pilot of a Labisia pumila var. alata water extract at 280 mg/day in postmenopausal Malay women (Abdul Kadir et al. 2012, Evid Based Complement Alternat Med).

63 postmenopausal women (29 extract, 34 placebo).

Triglycerides were lower with the extract than placebo after 6 months. Blood pressure, body mass index, waist circumference, fasting blood sugar, other lipids and reproductive hormones did not differ significantly between groups. The study was small and described as a pilot.

3
SKF7 Standardized Extract and Body Measurements in Obesity
PubMed

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 dose-ranging trial of the standardized SKF7 extract (375 to 750 mg/day) in adults with obesity, funded by the extract's maker (Swarna Nantha et al. 2023, Diabetes Obes Metab).

133 adults with obesity across several Malaysian clinics.

At 750 mg a day, the extract lowered body weight, body mass index, waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio versus placebo, with waist measures showing a dose-dependent response. The endpoints were body measurements only, and the trial did not enroll women specifically for menopause.

4
Combined Labisia pumila and Eurycoma longifolia Formula in Menopausal Women
PubMed

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 24-week trial of a two-herb formula containing Labisia pumila and Eurycoma longifolia, funded by the maker and with maker employees as authors (Chinnappan et al. 2020, Food Nutr Res).

119 healthy peri- and postmenopausal women aged 41 to 55.

Hot flush, Menopause Rating Scale and quality-of-life scores improved in both the formula and placebo groups, with no significant between-group difference in hot flushes. LH and FSH fell and LDL and triglycerides dropped within the formula group only. This tested a two-herb blend, not the extract alone.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

In the trials, the extract was generally well tolerated over periods of up to 6 months, with side effect rates similar to placebo.
A hormone-sensitivity caution applies: laboratory work shows estrogen-like activity, so people with estrogen-sensitive conditions, such as a history of breast or uterine problems, should talk with a doctor before use.
Long-term safety beyond about 6 months has not been established in controlled trials.
The European Food Safety Authority judged a standardized extract safe for the general adult population at intakes up to 350 mg a day and set the target population as adults other than pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Traditional use around childbirth does not establish safety as a modern supplement; it is context, not evidence.

Important Drug interactions

No formal drug interaction studies have been done with Labisia pumila extracts.
Hormone therapy and hormonal contraceptives: because the plant shows estrogen-like activity in the laboratory, ask your prescriber before combining.
Blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes medicines: small trials tracked these measures, so monitor them and tell your doctor if you take such medicines.
If you take any prescription medicine or have a hormone-sensitive condition, check with your doctor or pharmacist first.

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Frequently asked questions about Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah)

What is Kacip Fatimah traditionally used for?

Kacip Fatimah is the Southeast Asian name for Labisia pumila, a plant used for generations as a women's tonic, mainly to help with childbirth and postpartum recovery. That is traditional context, not proof of a health effect. Modern supplements use a water or water-ethanol extract and have been studied mostly in women around the menopausal transition.

Does Labisia pumila help with menopause symptoms?

The evidence is early. In a 16-week study, a 400 mg daily water extract improved several self-rated quality-of-life ratings, including vasomotor and sleep items, more than placebo. A separate 24-week trial of a formula that combined it with another herb improved menopause scores, but not significantly more than placebo for hot flushes. Think support during the menopausal life stage, not a treatment.

Does it raise or lower estrogen?

In the laboratory the extract shows estrogen-like activity, which is why it is called a phytoestrogen. In women, though, the trials found no change in luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone or estradiol. If you have a hormone-sensitive condition, talk with your doctor before using it.

How much do people take, and is it safe?

Trials used 280 to 400 mg a day of a water extract for 6 weeks to 6 months, and 375 to 750 mg a day of the standardized SKF7 extract in adults with excess weight. European food-safety reviewers judged a standardized extract safe for adults up to 350 mg a day and advised against use in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Long-term safety has not been established, so follow the label and check with your doctor.

What is Labisia pumila?

Labisia pumila, known across Southeast Asia as Kacip Fatimah, is a small flowering plant whose roots are brewed as a traditional women's tonic, mainly around childbirth and postpartum recovery.

What is Labisia pumila used for?

Labisia pumila is researched primarily for Women's Health and Menopause Support. In a 16-week placebo-controlled study of 197 healthy women aged 40 to 60, a 400 mg daily water extract improved self-rated memory and concentration, vasomotor symptoms, menstrual symptoms and sleep problems more than placebo.

What is the recommended dosage of Labisia pumila?

The clinically studied dose is 400 mg/day water extract for 16 weeks in pre- and postmenopausal women; 280 mg/day for 6 months in a postmenopausal pilot; 375 to 750 mg/day of the standardized SKF7 extract in adults with obesity. EFSA judged intake safe for adults up to 350 mg/day. Always follow the product label and check with a healthcare provider for personal advice.

Is Labisia pumila safe, and does it have side effects?

For most healthy adults, Labisia pumila is well tolerated at studied doses. Reported effects can include: In the trials, the extract was generally well tolerated over periods of up to 6 months, with side effect rates similar to placebo. A hormone-sensitivity caution applies: laboratory work shows estrogen-like activity, so people with estrogen-sensitive conditions, such as a history… It may also interact with some medications. Labisia pumila is not right for everyone, so check with a healthcare provider first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medication.

Does Labisia pumila interact with any medications?

Possible interactions include: No formal drug interaction studies have been done with Labisia pumila extracts. Hormone therapy and hormonal contraceptives: because the plant shows estrogen-like activity in the laboratory, ask your prescriber before combining. If you take prescription medication, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using it.

How strong is the scientific evidence for Labisia pumila?

NutraSmarts rates the evidence for Labisia pumila as Limited (2 out of 5). It is backed by 4 clinical trials and 8 cited references summarized on this page. A higher rating reflects more, larger, and better-designed human studies.

References(8 citations)

Evidence ratings on NutraSmarts are based on the totality of human clinical research, with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. The references below directly support claims made throughout this page.

  1. Norhayati MN, George A, Hazlina NH, Azidah AK, Idiana HI, Law KS, Bahari IS, Zahiruddin WM, Liske E, Azreena A. Efficacy and safety of Labisia pumila var alata water extract among pre- and postmenopausal women. J Med Food. 2014;17(8):929-38. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2013.2953.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 16-week trial in 197 healthy pre- and postmenopausal women aged 40 to 60 (400 mg/day water extract): self-rated memory and concentration, vasomotor symptoms, menstrual symptoms and sleep improved versus placebo, as did total and LDL cholesterol, while LH, FSH and estradiol did not change and safety labs stayed normal.
  2. Abdul Kadir A, Nik Hussain NH, Wan Bebakar WM, Mohd DM, Wan Mohammad WM, Hassan II, Shukor N, Kamaruddin NA, Wan Mohamud WN. The Effect of Labisia pumila var. alata on Postmenopausal Women: A Pilot Study. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:216525. doi: 10.1155/2012/216525.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 6-month pilot in 63 postmenopausal Malay women (280 mg/day water extract): triglycerides were significantly lower than placebo, while blood pressure, body mass index, waist circumference, fasting blood sugar, other lipids and reproductive hormones did not differ significantly between groups.
  3. Swarna Nantha Y, Vijayasingham S, Adam NL, Vengadasalam P, Ismail M, Ali N, Chang LC, Ling LYL, Tee TT, Cheah YH. Labisia pumila standardized extract (SKF7®) reduces percentage of waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio in individuals with obesity. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2023;25(11):3298-3306. doi: 10.1111/dom.15229.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2 dose-ranging trial in 133 adults with obesity: 750 mg/day of the standardized SKF7 extract lowered body weight, body mass index, waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio versus placebo, with a dose-dependent reduction in waist measures. Conducted and funded by the extract's maker.
  4. Chinnappan SM, George A, Evans M, Anthony J. Efficacy of Labisia pumila and Eurycoma longifolia standardised extracts on hot flushes, quality of life, hormone and lipid profile of peri-menopausal and menopausal women: a randomised, placebo-controlled study. Food Nutr Res. 2020;64:3665. doi: 10.29219/fnr.v64.3665.PubMedUsed to support: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 24-week trial in 119 peri- and postmenopausal women of a two-herb formula combining Labisia pumila and Eurycoma longifolia: hot flush, Menopause Rating Scale and quality-of-life scores improved in both groups with no significant between-group difference in hot flushes; LH, FSH, LDL and triglycerides changed within the formula group only. Tests a blend, not the extract alone; funded by the maker, two authors are its employees.
  5. Shuid AN, Ping LL, Muhammad N, Mohamed N, Soelaiman IN. The effects of Labisia pumila var. alata on bone markers and bone calcium in a rat model of post-menopausal osteoporosis. J Ethnopharmacol. 2011;133(2):538-42. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2010.10.033.PubMedUsed to support: Animal study in ovariectomized rats: 17.5 mg/kg of the extract for 8 weeks raised osteocalcin and lowered the collagen breakdown marker CTX versus the untreated ovariectomized group, but did not prevent the loss of bone calcium. Cited as laboratory and animal mechanism evidence, not a human finding.
  6. EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA), Turck D, Bohn T, Castenmiller J, De Henauw S, Hirsch-Ernst KI, Maciuk A, Mangelsdorf I, McArdle HJ, Naska A, Pelaez C, Pentieva K, Siani A, Thies F, Tsabouri S, Vinceti M, Cubadda F, Frenzel T, Heinonen M, Maradona MP, Marchelli R, Neuhäuser-Berthold M, Poulsen M, Schlatter JR, Albert O, Matijević L, Knutsen HK. Safety of an aqueous ethanolic extract of Labisia pumila as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. EFSA J. 2022;20(11):e07611. doi: 10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7611.PubMedUsed to support: European Food Safety Authority novel-food opinion: for a standardized aqueous ethanolic whole-plant extract (proposed as a food supplement up to 750 mg/day), the panel found no genotoxicity concern and concluded it is safe for the general adult population at intakes up to 350 mg/day, with the target population excluding pregnant and breastfeeding women.
  7. Wang Y, Yan F, Xu DQ, Liu M, Liu ZF, Tang YP. Traditional uses, botany, phytochemistry, pharmacology and applications of Labisia pumila: A comprehensive review. J Ethnopharmacol. 2025;336:118522. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118522.PubMedUsed to support: Comprehensive review: Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah, also Marantodes pumilum) is traditionally used to help with childbirth and postpartum recovery; it contains flavonoids, phenolic acids and saponins and shows antioxidant, phytoestrogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-osteoporosis and anti-obesity activity in preclinical work. The authors note that human study has focused on estrogen-deficiency and bone outcomes and that safety research should be expanded.
  8. Zakaria AA, Noor MHM, Ahmad H, Hassim HA, Mazlan M, Latip MQA. A Review on Therapeutic Effects of Labisia pumila on Female Reproductive Diseases. Biomed Res Int. 2021;2021:9928199. doi: 10.1155/2021/9928199.PubMedUsed to support: Review of Labisia pumila in women's reproductive health: summarizes bioactive compounds (flavonoids, ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, anthocyanin, phenolic acid) and notes that an ethanolic extract showed estrogen-like activity on estrogen-sensitive human cells in an estrogen-free medium, used here as laboratory mechanism context for the plant's phytoestrogen properties.