Development of a Novel Supplement Combining Coconut Water Powder and Tranexamic Acid for Alleviating Menstrual Cramps and Heavy Bleeding: An In Vitro Evaluation

Abstract

Menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding, collectively known as dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia, significantly impact women's quality of life. This study explores the potential of a novel supplement formulated from coconut water powder and tranexamic acid to mitigate these symptoms. Coconut water, rich in electrolytes, vitamins, and antioxidants, aids in reducing muscle spasms and oxidative stress, while tranexamic acid inhibits fibrinolysis to control excessive bleeding. The supplement was evaluated for its anticoagulant activity using activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) assays at concentrations ranging from 10 to 500 µg/mL. Chemical parameters (calcium, sodium, potassium) and physical parameters (pH, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity) were also assessed. Results demonstrated dose-dependent prolongation of clotting time, indicating effective antifibrinolytic properties. Chemical analysis revealed balanced electrolyte levels, and physical properties confirmed stability. This formulation shows promise as a non-hormonal, natural alternative for managing menstrual disorders, with potential for further clinical validation.

Keywords

Introduction

Figure:1 Images for chemical parameters

Figure:2 Images for Physical parameters

Physical Parameters

The supplement showed neutral pH (6.8 ± 0.2), TDS (450 ± 20 mg/L), and EC (0.75 ± 0.05 mS/cm) (Table 3), indicating stability for oral use.

Table 3: Physical Parameters

DISCUSSION

The results from this in vitro study provide compelling evidence for the efficacy of the novel supplement combining coconut water powder and tranexamic acid (TXA) in modulating coagulation parameters and offering potential relief for menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding. The anticoagulant activity, assessed via activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), demonstrated a clear dose-dependent prolongation of clotting time. Specifically, at the lowest concentration of 10 µg/mL, the clotting time increased to 32 ± 2 seconds from the control value of 28 ± 1 seconds, representing a modest 14% extension. This effect intensified with higher doses: 38 ± 2 seconds (36% increase) at 50 µg/mL, 45 ± 3 seconds (61% increase) at 100 µg/mL, 52 ± 3 seconds (86% increase) at 250 µg/mL, and reaching 58 ± 3 seconds (107% increase) at 500 µg/mL. These findings suggest that the supplement effectively inhibits fibrinolysis, aligning with TXA's primary mechanism of action, which involves reversible blockade of lysine-binding sites on plasminogen to prevent clot degradation. Although TXA is traditionally viewed as an antifibrinolytic rather than a direct anticoagulant, high concentrations may subtly influence intrinsic pathway factors, leading to prolonged aPTT as observed here, particularly in contexts like surgical bleeding or hyperfibrinolysis^[7]. This modulation could translate to reduced heavy menstrual bleeding by enhancing clot stability without significantly elevating thrombosis risks, as supported by meta-analyses showing no impact on activated clotting time or protamine doses in cardiac surgery.

Complementing TXA's hemostatic effects, the chemical composition of the supplement highlights the role of coconut water's electrolytes in addressing menstrual cramps. The measured potassium level of 250 ± 15 mg/L is noteworthy, as coconut water naturally contains high potassium (approximately 600 mg per cup in fresh form), which plays a crucial role in regulating fluid balance and muscle contractions. Potassium works synergistically with sodium (120 ± 10 mg/L in our formulation) to maintain electrolyte equilibrium, preventing dehydration and supporting nerve signalling and muscle relaxation. Calcium, at 45 ± 5 mg/L as CaCO?, contributes to muscle function by aiding in contraction-relaxation cycles, with deficiencies linked to exacerbated cramps^[8]. These electrolyte levels are consistent with literature on coconut water's composition, which includes potassium, magnesium, calcium, and sodium, known to alleviate primary dysmenorrhea by reducing uterine hypercontractility and PMS symptoms such as abdominal cramps and fatigue. For instance, studies have shown that 330 mL of green coconut water effectively decreases dysmenorrhea intensity through its mineral content, potentially outperforming NSAIDs like ibuprofen in some mechanisms^[9].

The physical parameters further underscore the supplement's suitability for oral administration. A near-neutral pH of 6.8 ± 0.2 ensures gastrointestinal compatibility, minimising irritation compared to acidic formulations. TDS at 450 ± 20 mg/L reflects moderate solute content, indicative of the electrolyte richness without overwhelming osmolarity, while EC of 0.75 ± 0.05 mS/cm confirms good ionic conductivity, correlating with the electrolyte profile and supporting rapid absorption for quick relief during menstruation^[10]. These values suggest stability and palatability, enhancing user compliance over traditional therapies.

Overall, this synergistic formulation addresses both bleeding control and cramp relief more holistically than single-agent treatments. Unlike NSAIDs, which may cause gastric issues, or hormones with endocrine disruptions, this supplement leverages natural antioxidants and electrolytes for a safer profile. However, the in vitro nature limits direct extrapolation to in vivo scenarios; factors like bioavailability and systemic effects require clinical trials. Future investigations should include anti-inflammatory assays (e.g., albumin denaturation), pharmacokinetic studies, and randomised controlled trials to validate efficacy in women with dysmenorrhea and HMB.

CONCLUSION

This novel supplement, combining coconut water powder and TXA, demonstrates potent antifibrinolytic and stabilising properties, positioning it as a promising intervention for menstrual disorders. Its natural composition may improve patient compliance and reduce reliance on synthetic drugs.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We thank the management of Mahendra Engineering College for the facilities and Dr V. Shanmugam for support.

Conflict of Interest

 The author declared no conflict of interest.

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