An effective, overall female tonic containing herbal phytochemicals that contribute to the regulation and balance of female hormones.  While herbs do not contain hormones, they provide support to the pituitary and hypothalamus in the brain, which control the manufacture and release of hormones from the ovaries. Unlike strong estrogens that create rapid tissue growth, which can lead to lumps, fibroids and cancers, phystoestrogens from plants are 100 to 1,000 times weaker. Additionally, these phytoestrogens block the receptor sites from stronger estrogens, providing an additional layer of protection against the negative effects of dangerous estrogens.

Black Cohosh

Black cohosh contains isoflavones and tetracyclic triperpenes (weak estrogen-regulating properties). It has been shown in studies to create a significant estrogenic effect and is useful for estrogen dominance problems as well. Black Cohosh warms and stimulates the uterus, relieves pain and hot flashes and regulates estrogen. Originally used by Native Americans to minimize menopausal symptoms, black cohosh continues to be the most commonly used herb for menopause.

Chaste Tree Berries

Vitex, one of the best-known women’s herbs, was recommended by Hippocrates in 450 B.C. and is still used today to help ease undesirable symptoms associated with menstrual imbalances and hormonal difficulties (PMS and menopause).  It increases the supply of progesterone at its source in the pituitary gland. The action of Chaste Tree is indirect as it is not an actual hormone. Therefore, effects of this herbal therapy are mild and can occur over an extended period. It should not be taken with hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Damania

Damiana is one of the most widely used herbs in all of history. It was historically a traditional aphrodisiac of the Maya people in Central America and is today considered to be a valuable aphrodisiac and adaptogenic herb.  It is used to regulate hormone activity, improve digestion, combat fatigue, lift the spirits, calm the nerves, enhance memory and increase physical and/or sexual performance.

Wild Yam

Wild Yam is the most popular herb for female complaints in American herbal medicine. Wild Yam root contains plant sources of steroids. The chemicals in this herb are thought to positively affect and support the functioning of the pituitary and hypothalamus in the brain, which control the manufacture and release of hormones from the ovaries. Wild Yam Root has traditionally been used to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reduce headaches, combat fatigue and irritability and improve mood, sleep and memory.

Dong Quai

Also known as Angelica, Dong Quai is the most popular herb for female complaints in traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Over one billion women worldwide have used this plant for biochemical imbalances. In the Far East it is known as a female adaptogen, regulating hormonal imbalances. The chemicals in this herb are thought to positively affect and support the functioning of the pituitary and hypothalamus in the brain, which control the manufacture and release of hormones from the ovaries.

Licorice

The steroidal (cortisone-like substance) content of Licorice aids in the healing and restoring of the adrenal glands. The Steroidal content found in Licorice not only helps the adrenal glands but female problems as well. Licorice has an alterative action on estrogen metabolism, which means when estrogen levels are too high it will bring them down, and if the levels are too low it will bring them up. This estrogenic action is due to the isoflavone content found in Licorice. (Herbal Legacy)

Contraindications: Chaste Tree is not recommended with hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

References:

Hobbs, Christopher. Hormone Replacement Therapy and Natural Alternatives. www.christopherhobbs.com

www.HerbalLegacy.com

Olivier, Suzannah, Natural Hormone Balance: Achieving Optimal Hormone Health Through Diet and Lifestyle Therapies.

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. If you are taking prescription medication, please consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements.