HORMONAL BACKGROUND: The best herbs for women

When can treatment with folk remedies help?

Women have many reasons for hormonal imbalances (1). Physiological ones that do not require special treatment include:

1. Puberty period.
2. Regular periods.
3. Pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding.
4. The period of decline of sexual function is premenopause, menopause.

In terms of such reasons, folk remedies will turn out to be a real lifesaver, due to their safety. For example, we’ll show you how to increase estrogen levels without medications.

Unfortunately, hormonal imbalances can also be pathological:

1. Polycystic ovary syndrome.
2. Menopause occurs too early.
3. Taking hormonal drugs to treat various pathologies.
4. Another pathology that causes disturbances in the functioning of the gonads.

For such patients, treatment with folk remedies will most likely not be enough. But it will be possible to use () as an auxiliary component. Check this point with your doctor.

There are several ways to normalize hormonal levels in the event of a malfunction ():

1. Work on yourself.
2. Use of medicinal plants.
3. Physiotherapeutic methods.

Let's look at techniques with proven effectiveness.

What are the dangers of hormonal imbalances?

Today, more and more people are resorting to alternative treatment options for this pathology. Treatment with folk remedies for hormonal imbalance is a lifeline for many. After all, some patients pay attention to their health when the chances of recovery become minimal. If the causes are not eliminated in a timely manner and the hormonal system is treated late, some consequences may be irreversible. In women, severe complications of hormone imbalance are infertility or miscarriage, the development of malignant processes, disturbances in the functioning of the cardiovascular system, in men - diabetes mellitus, early loss of sexual function, heart attacks and strokes.

Method 1. Relaxation

At least two randomized studies confirm that relaxation practices improve well-being in menopausal women better than any activity (4, 5).

Relaxation techniques and rhythmic breathing help achieve good results. One study compared them to each other and a placebo (). Improved well-being was noted by respondents from both control groups (with the exception of placebo).

For relaxation, we can recommend the progressive muscle relaxation technique. The essence of it is to take a comfortable body position, and then tense and relax different muscle groups. Starting from the fingers to the tongue. In the tension phase, we “feel” each muscle, which helps to relax it later. Such sessions should be done daily, spending at least 20 minutes.

The effectiveness of relaxation has been confirmed experimentally. 55% of the women in the study reported an improvement in their condition, and salivary levels of the stress hormone cortisol were also recorded (7).

Evidence of the benefits of breathing practices is also reflected in one clinical study (8). The experiment participants practiced a breathing technique once or twice a day with a frequency of 6 respiratory movements per minute. The diaphragm was involved in the act of breathing, inhalations and exhalations were deep and slow. The best results were observed in those who did the exercises twice a day.

The authors of another study provide similar conclusions about the benefits of relaxation during hormonal imbalances (9).

So women should not refuse psychogenic training during hormonal imbalances. Their effectiveness is seen in the normalization of the autonomic regulation of the activity of internal organs. Including the gonads.

Hormone replacement therapy

Modern drugs used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) reduce the risk of side effects to a minimum. It is necessary to take the medications prescribed by your doctor regularly, without skipping them, in strictly prescribed dosages. Women must undergo a full examination at least once a year.

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Based on their composition, HRT drugs are divided into 4 large groups:

• Estrogen-based products - Microfollin, Ovestin, Proginova. Contain synthetic or natural hormones. Eases the symptoms of menopause and improves a woman’s appearance.
• Preparations based on gestagens - Duphaston, Diane-35. They are used to prevent hyperplasia of the uterine mucosa and normalize the secretory function of the endometrium.
• Combined tablets for hormonal imbalance in women - Divina, Trisequence. They have the functions of the previous two groups.
• Medicines with tibolone - Livial, Ladybon. Tibolone is a synthetic steroid with estrogenic and progestogenic properties. Drugs in this group do not compensate for the lack of hormones, but partially compensate for their functions.

Method 2. Mindfulness

This technique is aimed at eliminating stress, one of the common causes of hormonal disorders. Many women with hormonal imbalances, especially pre- and postmenopausal women, indicate a feeling of chronic stress, sleep disturbances, and panic attacks (10, 11).

For such symptoms, you can use different mindfulness and meditation techniques:

1. Self-scanning of the body, collecting sensations from head to toe.
2. A stage of sitting meditation with concentration on breathing.
3. Stretching exercises, with an emphasis on body awareness during exercise.

Such sessions can be done at home, for 45 minutes, 6 days a week (12). The first effects were felt after 9 weeks. Statistically significant improvements in sleep were observed after 5 months (13).

All this leads to normalization of hormonal levels. Firstly, by reducing stress, and secondly, by improving sleep quality.

Why does hormonal imbalance occur in women and men?

The female body consists of two important hormones: estrogen and progesterone. Often, hormonal imbalance provokes increased estrogen levels. The main root causes of it in women are:

1. Menopause, which causes hormonal imbalance in women over forty years of age. Because of this, the production of eggs begins to stop.
2. Puberty, from ten to twenty years in girls. During this time, the balance of hormones is constantly changing.
3. Periods of pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding. They cause the problem presented.
4. When taking certain medications, in particular contraceptives.
5. Stress or frequent experiences that negatively affect the production of new hormones and changes in the endocrine system.
6. Unhealthy lifestyle, for example, lack of sleep, chronic fatigue syndrome and consumption of junk food, smoking and alcohol. Fatty and too salty foods have a negative effect on the body.
7. The appearance of excess weight, obesity, leading to hormone imbalance.
8. The appearance of gynecological diseases associated directly with changes in the amount of hormones.
9. Acquiring colds, acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections.
10. Increased physical activity, severe fatigue after it.

Men can also be susceptible to hormonal imbalance. A failure may occur due to:

1. Natural pathology in the endocrine glands (testes, pituitary gland, thyroid gland).
2. Toxic effects on the body (due to the consumption of alcoholic beverages, frequent smoking of cigarettes, the use of narcotic substances, occupational hazards, chemicals).
3. Infectious diseases, tumor growths, damage to the gonads.

In addition, the cause may be deterioration of the liver and kidneys, which play a direct role in the functioning of the hormonal system.

Method 3. Yoga

There is a wide variety of these practices; we will not dwell on them in detail. Let us only note that studies on how yoga affects hormonal imbalances in women have been carried out repeatedly (14, 15, 16, etc.).

According to some of them, yoga even has some advantages over regular physical activity (17). The effect in this case is achieved through calmness and relaxation. This helps reduce stress hormones, which are often the cause of hormonal imbalances.

Reviews of folk remedies

Hormonal imbalance is a common problem that occurs in men and women at different ages. Based on patient reviews, folk remedies have a therapeutic effect only if they are used as therapy that complements the course of medication.

Most of the recipes presented in the article helped women not only restore hormonal levels, but also strengthen the immune system, increase the body's resistance to respiratory diseases and viral infections. Unlike drug treatment, traditional therapy is extremely rarely accompanied by side effects. Some users who left reviews experienced an allergic reaction to herbal medicines, but all manifestations disappeared on their own after stopping the medications.

Since hormonal imbalance almost always affects body weight, weight control is one of the most pressing topics for patients. Many of them note that, for example, regular consumption of peppermint tea while following the rules of metabolic diet allows you to lose several kilograms.

Method 4. Vitamin E

This vitamin has firmly established itself as an antioxidant and a substance that has a beneficial effect on the reproductive system. In order to confirm this statement, a placebo-controlled study was conducted with the participation of 120 women. For a month, half received 800 IU of vitamin E per day, and the other half received a placebo. As a result, a slight improvement in well-being was registered in the first group (18).

In another study, 50 women took 400 IU of vitamin E per day alternated between taking a placebo. And in this experiment, a slight improvement was also noted (19).

And, although the results of both studies cannot be considered indisputable, we will not deny the positive effect of vitamin E either. Take 400 mg per day for a month. If there is no effect, we try a different approach.

Treatment of hormonal imbalance in women with folk remedies

Many medicinal herbs contain phytohormones. They gently normalize hormonal levels and rarely cause side effects. You can take decoctions and infusions from plants as an additional means of treatment and only after consultation with your doctor.

Traditional medicine recommends using the following recipes:

• Mix hogweed with red brush. Pour a tablespoon of the mixture into 250 ml of boiling water. Take 1/3 tbsp after 15 minutes of infusion. 2 times/day. Treatment is carried out from 16 to 25 days of the cycle for three months.
• Pour two tablespoons of flaxseed into 1 tbsp. boiling water Leave for 2 hours. Take 100 ml 2 times a day for a month.
• Infuse a teaspoon of dried sage in a glass of boiling water for 15 minutes. Take the filtered infusion ¼ tbsp. 3 times/day for a month. The infusion has a number of contraindications: thyroid disease, uterine fibroids, high levels of estrogen.

Method 5. Chamomile

Chamomile is valued for its anti-inflammatory effects, but there are studies confirming the benefits of chamomile for hormonal imbalances.

One study involved 60 women who complained of regular chest pain as a symptom of menstruation. A group of 30 women were given five drops of chamomile extract three times a day for 2 months. The other 30 women received a placebo. Pain relief in the first group was statistically significantly greater than that of women receiving placebo (20).

Another experiment was conducted on rats with simulated polycystic ovary syndrome. The use of chamomile alcohol extract for 10 days statistically significantly reduced the signs of PCOS in females and increased the level of luteinizing hormone. Better formation of the dominant follicle was also noted (21).

And the antispasmodic effect of chamomile additionally reduces ischemic premenstrual pain in women with hormonal imbalances.

How to treat hormonal imbalance with folk remedies in men

In representatives of the stronger sex, problems with hormones often lead to a decrease in testosterone levels in the body and weakening of erections. Treatment of hormonal imbalance in men with folk remedies involves the use of medicinal plants that stimulate testosterone production. The most effective recipes, according to reviews, are:

• Infusion of yarutka. This herb is beneficial for men's health as it promotes the production of androgens. The plant is sold in any pharmacy.
• Ginseng tincture. You can buy an alcohol tincture or prepare it yourself. The medicine must be taken strictly according to the instructions, depending on the weight and age of the man.
• Carrot juice. This drink is especially useful for the male hormonal system if you drink it 50 ml three times a day.
• Celery and parsley juice. Both components are used in equal proportions. You need to take the drink three times a day, 2-3 sips before meals, for a month.

To ensure that treatment of hormonal imbalance in men with folk remedies does not turn out to be useless, it is important to take care of establishing the correct daily routine, get proper rest, give preference to healthy foods and give up bad habits.

Method 6. Vitex sacred (prutnyak)

This plant is common in the Mediterranean region, but you can also find it here. Including – as part of medicinal preparations, dietary supplements.

Vitex has proven to be an effective, safe remedy for premenstrual syndrome. In addition, it is well tolerated (22). In Germany, Vitex extract is used as a main remedy for PMS (). In English-speaking countries, the extract of this plant is supplemented with fluoxetine to achieve a better effect. The effectiveness of taking 20 mg of extract per day for mild to moderate PMS has been experimentally confirmed (23, 24).

When menopause occurs, Vitex agnus castus relieves symptoms that accompany it (25). Its effectiveness has also been proven for infertility. It is believed that linolenic acid, apigenin, which Vitex is rich in, plays a major role here (26).

Method 7. Saffron

This spice is known for its calming effect. Saffron also finds its use in the treatment of hormonal disorders in premenopausal women. To enhance the effect, saffron was used in combination with other plants. In particular, Crocus sativus extract with chamomile and fennel improved the well-being of women over 12 weeks.

The optimal composition of the mixture looks like this: 1000 mg of chamomile extract + 120 mg of fennel extract + 60 mg of saffron extract.

The result of using this mixture with saffron is felt already in 6 weeks (27).

By itself, saffron has also been shown to be effective for PMS. In one study, women took 15 mg of its extract twice daily. After 2 months, those who took the spice experienced a noticeable improvement in the symptoms of hormonal imbalance compared to women who received a placebo (28).

Method 8. Valerian

Used to treat painful periods in women since the 11th century. The active components are essential oils and flavonoids of valerian root. They have a diuretic and sedative effect. But for women with dyshormonal disorders, PMS, valeric acid, which has an antispasmodic effect, is important (29).

There is also evidence that the use of valerian extract for menstrual pain is not inferior to taking mefenamic acid in terms of the degree of pain relief. Valerian is also included in the list of remedies that help relieve stress.

Method 9. Cinnamon

Primary dysmenorrhea (painful periods) is accompanied or caused by the release of prostaglandins, mediators of inflammation (30). It is logical to assume that plants with an anti-inflammatory effect will bring relief to women with dysmenorrhea.

These include cinnamon, a common and popular spice. And, although the mechanism of action of cinnamon for painful periods is not completely clear, according to research it is very effective (31). It is believed that the effectiveness of Cinnamomum Blume owes its effectiveness to cinnamaldehyde (90%) and eugenol (5-18%). These substances have been noted to have an anti-inflammatory effect and the ability to inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins (32, 33). A daily dose of cinnamon oil of 2.5 g, divided into three doses, turned out to be effective.

Method 10. St. John's wort

Like chamomile, a plant common in our latitudes. It has been actively used in herbal medicine for a long time. In 2006, a study was conducted involving 70 women with symptoms of dysmenorrhea and painful PMS. In a group of 35 people who received 35 drops of St. John's wort extract twice a day a week before their period, 76% reported symptom relief. Among 35 women who received placebo, only 22% did (34).

Another study also confirmed the positive effect of St. John's wort on dishormonal phenomena during PMS. The plant extract (160 mg three times daily) has been shown to have positive effects on insomnia, depression, irritability and other symptoms of PMS and menopause (35).

Method 12. Reflexology

Alternative medicine believes that there are special points on the hands and feet, by acting on which you can regulate the functioning of internal organs.

A study involving 120 women divided into foot massage and foot acupuncture groups showed the effectiveness of reflexology. Specifically, after 12 twice-weekly acupuncture sessions, women in this group reported improved sexual function (36).

Where on the feet there are points that regulate the functioning of the reproductive system is not difficult to find. And nothing can stop you from doing self-massage.

And the most important thing!

Problems with hormones don't just happen. This is preceded by a general state of physical and emotional health. That is, hormonal disorders are only a consequence of disruptions in the body and lifestyle.

Hormones are affected by nutrition, sleep quality, stress, vitamins, and even the condition of the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, if you want more than just a temporary solution to the problem and relief of symptoms, then I recommend that you spend a little time and read my book “How to quickly get female hormones in order.”

After reading it, you will be surprised how simple but effective recommendations lead to serious results. By introducing them into your life, you will not only be able to restore your hormonal levels, but also your overall health. Improve the condition of skin and hair, normalize body weight. When a woman’s hormones are all right, this affects her well-being and self-confidence. There is more energy and vitality. The amount of pheromones released increases. More details in my book.

In the same article, we discussed how to prevent hormonal imbalance in women; treatment with folk remedies can give quite a good effect. Try, combine, we have selected the safest options.

Is it possible to cure hormonal imbalance with folk remedies?

An important direction in alternative therapy for diseases of the endocrine system and restoration of hormonal levels is the intake of phytohormones. Thus, the principle of treatment with folk remedies for hormonal imbalance in women, as well as in men, is based on the use of special medicinal plants that can restore the imbalance that has arisen, suppress the production of substances that are in excess, and stimulate the secretion of missing hormones.

However, without eliminating the root cause, herbal medicine will not bring the expected therapeutic effect. Changes in hormonal levels can lead to serious problems, so at the first signs of disturbances, which are often manifested by sudden weight loss or weight gain, you need to contact a specialist as soon as possible. The doctor will prescribe an examination, appropriate tests and then, depending on the results, will be able to select the correct therapeutic program. Sometimes doctors choose not a medication course, but treatment with folk remedies.

In case of hormonal imbalance in women, it is recommended to take decoctions and infusions of medicinal plants with a high content of phytohormones - plant analogues of substances that are produced in the human body. Self-administration of herbs containing plant analogues of biologically active substances can aggravate an already serious problem.