5 Herbs That Can Help Balance Your Hormones

A precise hormone balance is essential for normal body-functioning and emotional wellbeing. If you prefer a natural approach to treat this imbalance, herbs can be the ideal choice with many benefits.

Dysfunctions in the endocrine system cause hormonal imbalances in your body. Moreover, environmental toxins and the added stress of modern life have worsened this issue. Herbs are natural supplements that you can use to reduce the symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance. A lot of traditional cultures have used medicinal herbs for several ailments since prehistoric times. They possess the ability to positively impact the quality of life.

Kratom:

Kratom, also referred to as biak-biak, ketum, or Maeng Da is the new buzzword in the world of health and wellbeing. Used as an important ingredient in traditional medicines since the 19th century, this herbal plant grows in tropical countries and is exported to most of the western world.

It contains the active ingredient mitragynine that impacts the hormonal system positively. If you are suffering from a chemical imbalance, you might experience considerable relief after consuming this herb. You can consume the leaves of the Kratom plant by chewing it directly or ingesting it in powdered or capsule forms. You can also brew Kratom tea with dried leaves of the plant to reap its benefits.

Maca

Maca, also known as Peruvian Ginseng, is a common ingredient in Peruvian cooking that gives dishes an earthy flavour. This root grows in high elevations of the Andes mountain range. Maca is an adaptogen, which implies that it helps the body naturally adapt to stressful circumstances like busy schedules, illnesses, or demanding jobs.

This herb has a unique nutritional profile. It is rich in amino acids, calcium, fibre, and iron. It provides adequate nutrients to the endocrine system, which stimulates and nourishes the 'master glands'( i.e. the pituitary and hypothalamus glands of your endocrine system). These two glands are responsible for regulating all the other hormone-producing glands.

Maca is available in powder form that you can mix in your smoothies or coffee; or in capsules that you can swallow.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is a herbal remedy derived from the milk thistle plant which has remarkable purple flowers and white veins. Its name is derived from the milky sap secreted by its leaves when they break open.

The liver eliminates toxins from your body, which could otherwise lead to hormonal imbalance or disruption. This could cause conditions such as estrogen dominance and hormone-related acne. Hence, a healthy liver is crucial for hormonal balance.

Milk thistle contains silymarin, an active ingredient that promotes liver health through its protective action. It stimulates the cleansing of the liver (i.e. it helps filters and eliminates excess oestrogen, thereby supporting hormonal balance). You can grind the milk thistle seeds into a powder, or swallow available capsules.

Vitex or Chaste Tree Berry

Vitex is a medicinal herb with violet flowers and berries, it is often taken as a remedy for women's health problems. Originating from the Mediterranean and Western Asia, the plant gets its name from the middle ages where the dried berries were used in monasteries to suppress libido. Moreover, this herb has an extensive history of hormone regulation and as a treatment for premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

According to researchers, Vitex contains constituents that bind with dopamine D2 receptors in the anterior pituitary, thereby decreasing the levels of the hormone prolactin. This, in turn, helps rebalance other hormones such as progesterone and oestrogen. Thus, it helps alleviate the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as headache, irritability, bloating, and skin issues. 

Red Raspberry Leaf

Red raspberry leaf has been traditionally used to strengthen the uterus and promote faster, healthier labour, and it is popular even today for alleviating hormonal imbalance. This remarkable herb is a rich source of minerals and vitamins, particularly Vitamin C and Vitamin B6, which are crucial to feminine health during reproduction. 

People usually drink raspberry leaf tea to balance female hormones as it has antioxidant properties. This helps relax the blood vessels. Hence, it is known as 'Women's tonic.' 

Final Thoughts

Hormonal imbalances, especially in women, can lead to a plethora of severe health issues. If left untreated, it can even be life-threatening. Herbs are naturally-occurring substances that can help you with this issue and restore your health. They are less toxic and have fewer side effects as compared to synthetic drugs. So, don't hesitate in trying herbal medicines to improve the quality of your life. 

As always it is recommended to consult with your physician or certified medical professional before beginning any alternative medicine to avoid the possibility of any unwanted complications.