Most men and women over the age of 35 suffer from hormonal imbalances. Stress, a sedentary lifestyle, and bad dietary habits have all contributed to this epidemic. Hormonal imbalances put undue pressure on the human body, and it can lead to serious diseases such as cancer and diabetes. It’s good to know that ten common herbs can fight imbalance and keep us healthy. The body recognizes herbs as food and processes them more efficiently than pills. Because of this, herbs are quite effective in balancing hormone levels. Check out the herbs on the following list:
1. Astragalus
This herb is known as an adaptogen, which means that it protects the body from maladies such as stress and high cholesterol. Both of these problems put undue pressure on bodily systems and can cause hormonal imbalance, so taking astragalus can stop hormonal imbalance before it begins. It is important to note that astragalus interacts with some prescription medications, so make sure to ask your doctor if this herb is a good choice for your health.
2. Ashwagandha
This herb is very popular in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. It balances both adrenal and thyroid hormones. Because of this, people suffering from hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism benefit from ingesting it. The herb also promotes blood flow to the female reproductive organs and lessens the symptoms of menopause. It can also treat erectile dysfunction in males. Ashwagandha may reduce stress hormones and benefit overall health.
3. Maca
Maca root was used by Inca warriors to promote endurance. It contains zinc, which is proven to correct imbalance as it relates to libido. It can also help women who suffer from the hot flashes and sleep disorders that are caused by menopause.
4. American Ginseng
American ginseng balances reproductive hormones, and it is often used to help women who have trouble conceiving a child. Scientific studies on animals have showed that this herb increases levels of estradiol-17beta, which is a powerful reproductive hormone. It can also increase male stamina and improve the absorption of nutrients in the body.
5. Saw Palmetto
The berries from the Saw Palmetto plant are proven to treat a condition of the prostate known as benign prostatic hyperplasia. Saw Palmetto may be able to treat this condition, which causes an enlarged prostate, and it may increase a man’s sperm count as well.
6. Tribulus
Tribulus stimulates the androgen receptors in the female brain, which results in better reproductive health. The herb has also been used in Chinese and Indian medicine to improve sperm count and treat erectile dysfunction.
7. Epimedium
This plant has been used for centuries to treat the uncomfortable symptoms associated with menopause. Because it relaxes muscle tissue, it may also alleviate menstrual cramps as well. Because epimedium mimics testosterone, it can be used to treat many male hormonal imbalances.
8. Chasteberry
Extracts from the chasteberry bush directly enhance the pituitary gland’s ability to regulate prolactin and estrogen. Its powerful effect on these female hormones makes Chasteberry an excellent alternative to western medicine in treating breast pain and polycystic ovary disease.
9. Suma
Suma root extract balances the endocrine system and protects against disease. It can also protect the pancreas by balancing blood sugar levels. It can also encourage a good mood and help women who struggle with infertility.
10. Black Cohosh
Components of black cohosh mimic estrogen, so this natural remedy can reduce menopause symptoms that are related to insufficient estrogen. A recent study of 80 women experiencing menopause found that women who took black cohosh experienced less anxiety and less hot flashes than the women who did not ingest the medicine. The benefits of black cohosh do not end there. The isoferulic acids in the plant can also act as a pain reliever.
It can be easy to forget that we can find the answer to many of our health problems in nature. If you are experiencing an illness that is due to a hormonal imbalance, you may wish to discuss these natural remedies with your chosen healthcare professional.