5 Medicinal Herbs for Hormone Balance

When treatment involves conventional medicine, many prescriptions can be highly useful for treating acute symptoms of various health ailments. However, when it comes to hormone therapy the science can be complex. Many pharmaceuticals attempt to assist the body in rebalancing hormones, particularly for women experiencing systemic challenges associated with pre, current, and post-menopause. Other hormone imbalance related risks include thyroid disease, infertility, oxidative stress, and certain cancers. 

In some cases, under the guidance of a physician or naturopathic doctor, these 5 medicinal herbs for hormone balance may help you alleviate specific health symptoms without the need for pharmaceuticals. This can be advantageous to those that may experience certain side effects linked to prescription hormone therapy or may be concerned of certain affiliated risks. It is important to note that using any of these herbs should be discussed with and monitored by a professional before using.

Menopause Hormone Remedies

Menopause occurs later in a woman’s life when her body is transitioning from being able to reproduce into the next phase. Symptoms during this transition, which can be minor to major, may include:

• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness
• Night sweats
• Thinning hair
• Mood fluctuation
• Insomnia

Medicinal herbs that may ease these and possibly other symptoms for some women include:

Nigella Seeds (N. Sativa) – According to a study published in the Avicenna Journal of Phytonutrient Medicine, 

“The finding indicated the probable beneficial role for N. sativa in the treatment of postmenopausal symptoms and possibility of using N. sativa as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for post menopause in human.”

Chasteberry – Compounds called diterpenoids are found in the fruit called chasteberry. Researchers believe these compounds may be responsible for producing a hormone balance in some people, particularly women struggling with menopausal symptoms. A randomized double blind placebo controlled trial study of chasteberry, published in the Korean Journal of Family Medicine, concluded, 

“Administration of Vitex agnus-castus [chasteberry] extracts as a phytoestrogenic medicine can alleviate menopausal symptoms in women.”

Cortisol Control

One hormone your body may be over-producing is cortisol. Cortisol is described as the ‘fight or flight’ hormone as it is secreted in response to exterior stress. In required situations such as fighting a bear or criminal, cortisol can be helpful but many humans confronted with the daily onslaught of stress are in constant cortisol response. This means that the body can be significantly thrown off balance resulting in a variety of adverse health symptoms, from weight gain to diseases such as Addison’s disease and Cushing’s syndrome. 

Ashwagandha – This herb had a significant impact on reducing the anxiety stress response resulting in less cortisol production. A study published in the 2019 journal Cureus stated that, 

“A significant reduction in PSS [perceived stress scale] scores was observed with Ashwagandha 250 mg/day and 600 mg/day. Serum cortisol levels reduced with both Ashwagandha 250 mg/day) and Ashwagandha 600 mg/day. Compared to the placebo group participants, the participants receiving Ashwagandha had significant improvement in sleep quality. Conclusion Ashwagandha root aqueous extract was beneficial in reducing stress and anxiety.”

Ovary Protection  

Marjoram – Life Sciences published a study of marjoram, a spice herb that contains high amounts of the healing properties called phenolic acid and flavonoids. The study found that marjoram may benefit treatment for hormone levels associated with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome).

“The present study established the beneficial effects of marjoram administration on DHEA-induced PCOS in female Wistar rats. The mechanistic effect includes improvement in the hormonal levels, ovaries weight, insulin sensitivity, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory parameters.”

Second and Third Trimester Support

Red Raspberry Leaf – Used for centuries as a tea infusion for female labor and birth, red raspberry leaf has been linked to easing pregnancy discomforts as well as supporting various benefits in the second and third trimester. Always check with your doctor before taking any herbs while pregnant. 

Science Direct reported on red raspberry leaf stating that one to three cups per day, after the first trimester, may result in,

“Relief of nausea, increase in milk production, increase in uterine tone, and ease of labor pains.[] Studies indicate that some of the plant components, such as fragrine, an alkaloid, do act directly on smooth muscle. [] One study indicates that approximately 63% of US midwives use this herb to stimulate labor.[] Red raspberry leaf was also probably consumed for nutritional support because the plant contains many nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as calcium, iron, and potassium. Overall, the herb does seem to reduce the risk for postdates pregnancy and appears safe for general use.”

Talk to your doctor about trying these 5 medicinal herbs for hormone balance. Sometimes it is the natural fix that can keep your body in harmony rather than force it into a direction you do not want it to go. 

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/herbs-that-balance-hormones#Hormones-and-your-health

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27247926/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31067851/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32021735/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23259002/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32877649/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/red-raspberry-leaf