Herbs are a nice addition to help women through the different phases of life in an elegant way. Together with nutrition and mindfulness, herbs can be a safe, effective and powerful support for your health.
The herbs discussed here support women’s health through the challenges that arise at different times of the month, year and throughout life. While herbs can be very helpful for pregnant and nursing mothers, that is not the focus of this post, and not all herbs discussed here are suitable for mothers or expectant mothers. Please do your own research. Below are some of the most powerful herbal allies that can support a woman’s health throughout her life.
Vitex (Vitex agnus castus)
One of the most effective herbs for supporting healthy hormone levels in women is Vitex, or chasteberry. It supports the healthy production of progesterone and luteinizing hormone, both of which are necessary for ovulation and regulating menstrual cycles. Vitex can help soothe PMS symptoms, including mood swings, irritability, bloating, breast tenderness, cravings, and rashes. It can help with irregular cycles. Vitex can also support women struggling with PCOS and infertility.
Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa)
Wild Yam has long been used in supporting women’s reproductive health. Contrary to popular belief, wild yam does not contain estrogen or progesterone and cannot be biologically converted into active hormones in the body. However, wild yam contains several phytochemicals that support healthy hormone levels. It has been found that healthy intestinal flora makes it even more effective.
Cramp bark (Viburnum opulus) & Black hedge (Viburnum prunifolium)
Two herbs that are useful for women during menstruation are Cramp Bark and Black Haw. These herbs have similar effects in the body and are used to soothe the occasional discomfort associated with menstrual cycles. Cramp Bark also has a history of use for discomfort associated with endometriosis and miscarriage.
Black cohosh (Actea racemosa)
Black cohosh supports a healthy endocrine system and hormonal cycles throughout a woman’s life. It has long been used in menopausal women to soothe hot flashes, sweating and the effects of declining estrogen. It is also used to support a healthy inflammatory response.
In addition, there are other herbs that can support healthy hormones and moods in women. For liver support and proper hormone elimination, burdock root (Arctium lappa) and dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) are good considerations. For emotional support, especially during menstruation, beneficial herbs include Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), Blue verbena (Verbena hastata)Feverfew (Leonurus cardiala)Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), and St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum). Finally, adaptogens, such as Eleuthero root (Eleutherococcus senticosus) and licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), can be used as a tonic to support healthy mood, hormones, sleep and immune function. Regardless of life stage, herbs can be very effective in supporting optimal health and vitality in women.
Writer Katie Gerber is a holistic health and nutrition coach serving clients both locally and on the front lines online. In 2014, she completed Aviva Romm’s Herbal Medicine for Women certification. After hiking the Pacific Crest Trail in 2014 and the Colorado Trail in 2016, Katie decided to use her knowledge of botanical medicine and nutrition to help fellow wilderness enthusiasts in their quest for more energy and better health. She transitioned from her career as a pastry chef and enrolled at the Institute for Transformational Nutrition. She now uses her lifelong passion for holistic health with her background in culinary arts to help people live healthier lives, in tune with nature. Katie writes for various publications and speaks at local events. When she’s not writing and working with clients, you’ll likely find her in the mountains, in the garden, or in the kitchen testing recipes. Read more about Katie, her articles and her adventures on her website.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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