Everything comes from what we first had: Nature. There are so many natural ways we can find healing or at least temporary relief.
If you suspect your hormones are imbalanced it would do a tremendous good to have a test done and get advice from a medical professional.
Simultaneously, you can explore these amazing herbs to balance female hormones. They each have a different function; some help reduce PMS symptoms others deal with menopause.
Ashwagandha
Commonly called “Indian Winter cherry”, Ashwagandha is one of the most important herbs in Ayurvedic practices. It is actually a “herbal shrub whose roots and berries are used for their medicinal properties.”
Ashwagandha has a variety of benefits but it is mostly used for stress and anxiety relief because of its ability to lower cortisol levels significantly. It also stimulates blood flow which can regulate your menstrual cycle. Ashwagandha is known to have somewhat of a balancing effect on the endocrine system. A well balanced endocrine system is important for the following reasons:
- Controls our metabolism
- Controls mood
- Controls reproduction
- Important for growth and development
- Controls the way our organs function
Those who should not take ashwagandha include individuals with autoimmune diseases as it can increase the immune response. As well as anyone breastfeeding or pregnant. It is of utmost importance that you speak to your healthcare practitioner before starting any herbs to balance female hormones.
Marjoram
Marjoram is also a herbal shrub like ashwagandha but it belongs to the Origanum genus, like oregano.
A scientific study had a small group of people with PCOS drink marjoram tea twice a day for one month. The study found that the people who drank the tea had significant reductions in their fasting insulin hormone levels, as compared to those who were given the placebo treatment.
This means a possible improvement in their blood sugar management. It also showed a reduction in their levels of adrenal androgens. Having an excess of androgens is not only a cause of PCOS but it could also lead to other health issues like diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease.
The study clarifies that more research must be done before confirming marjoram tea as having these benefits. The long-term effects of using marjoram (tea) isn’t well known either and so one cannot assume it as completely safe for daily use.
Passionflower
As women enter menopause there are so many hormonal changes. Estrogen and progesterone start declining.
When this decrease happens your menstrual cycle usually starts to become irregular and eventually stops. The body now has adapt to this change and this is why physical changes can also take place.
As progesterone declines it can cause disrupted sleep but don’t worry, passionflower to the rescue! Passionflower is one of the best herbs to balance female hormones because it is known to calm the nervous system down. It will help you to have a better sleep and reduce anxiety or stress that might be there too.
According to the National Library of Medicine: “Stress can lead to changes in the serum level of many hormones including glucocorticoids, catecholamines, growth hormone and prolactin.” Therefore using passionflower to take the edge of will help a lot in keeping your hormones balanced.
If you’re pregnant you should not be using passionflower as it may induce labour before time by stimulating the uterus. If you have surgery planned you should stop taking passionflower at least 3 weeks in advance.
White Peony
The root of white peony is used in traditional Chinese remedies as well as Ayurvedic practices. White peony is a herb known to increase progesterone, reduce high testosterone and regulate estrogen.
By balancing these hormones your PMS symptoms will be significantly less. White peony is a great anti-inflammatory and analgesic as well which will help reduce your period cramps.
It also improves blood circulation in the pelvic area allowing for a healthy blood flow during your menstrual cycle.
Lemon Balm
Also known as Melissa officinalis, Lemon balm is a herb used in plenty of remedies for all sorts of things. It helps soothe the nervous system which will allow you to feel more relaxed and calm.
By feeling calm you are less likely to upset your endocrine system (hormones) with stress. You’ll also sleep much better!
Lemon balm is also used to reduce PMS symptoms and help with digestion which could reduce the pesky bloating we encounter during that time of the month.
Remember that anything to do with finding balance involves time and consistency. Be patient with yourself in order to enjoy the benefits. Comment below which herb you’re most excited to try out.
Love ya!
XOXO