Estrogen, testosterone, adrenaline, insulin, and lot of other hormones act as chemical messengers in the body. The various glands in the body, such as the thyroid, pituitary, pancreas, and adrenals, secrete hormones and the endocrine system manages their efficient circulation throughout the body. As hormonal fluctuations occur, for example, during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, a woman can experience decreased energy levels, reduced sexual desire, weight gain, sleep troubles, or even infertility.
To help balance hormones, many women turn to hormone replacement therapies, thyroid medications, birth control pills, and more. Unfortunately, these methods often make the body dependent on prescriptions, mask the symptoms to avoid addressing the underlying condition, or lead to an increased risk of reproductive problems, anxiety, osteoporosis, and more. Because of the health risks associated with conventional hormone replacements, many women are ditching medications and treatments and turning to natural herbs that have hormone-balancing properties.
What Is The Endocrine System?
If you want to understand hormones, then you need to familiarize yourself with the endocrine system, which works to coordinate the relationships between organs and hormones. Once they enter the bloodstream, hormones address target cells to bring about specific changes. The pituitary gland, referred to as the master gland in the endocrine system, is responsible for delivering information from the brain to other glands in the body. Some of the functions of the endocrine system include:
- Repair
- Digestion
- Growth
- Sexual reproduction
- Homeostasis (constant internal balance)
Symptoms Of Hormonal Imbalance
Hormonal imbalances are often easy to identify, especially when a woman experiences night sweats or rapid weight gain in the midsection. On the other hand, symptoms may be subtle, or go unnoticed until a more serious condition arises. Common symptoms include:
- Insomnia
- Low sex drive
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Painful periods (or endometriosis as it worsens)
- Mood swings or anxiety
- Overeating or increased appetite
The Best Herbs For Balancing Hormones
Tongkat Ali
Women in Malaysia have been using tongkat ali, referred to by women as one of the greatest natural aphrodisiacs, to help naturally stimulate libido, support energy levels, and increase sensitivity of erogenous zones. Tongkat ali has been known to assist with hormonal fluctuations during menopause, but it is also beneficial for boosting cognitive function and reducing stress.
Ashwagandha
This popular Ayurvedic herb works to stimulate blood flow to the female reproductive organs, increasing sensitivity and arousal. Ashwagandha also works to reduce cortisol levels, which can lead to premature aging and disrupt healthy endocrine function. Many women praise ashwagandha because it is one of the best herbs for managing thyroid health and regulating the endocrine system.
Maca Root
For centuries, women in the Andes in South America have used maca root to increase fertility and decrease menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, sleep disruptions, and night sweats. Maca root is rich in phytonutrients and zinc, which is an integral nutrient that supports sexual-related hormones.
Clary Sage
Clary sage essential oil contains natural phytoestrogens that work to maintain balanced estrogen levels. Many women have reported that placing 3-5 drops of clary sage in a diffuser and inhaling the scent has helped to regulate menstrual cycles, relieve PMS symptoms, and improve emotional imbalances, such as anxiety or depression. If a woman is experiencing menstrual cramps, mix 5 drops of clary sage with a teaspoon of coconut oil and apply it to the abdominal area.
Shilajit
In traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, shilajit is considered to be a tonic that helps to increase energy and sexual desire. Formed from compressed plant materials from the Himalayas, shilajit is replete with amino acids, antioxidants, and fulvic acid, which passes through the intestinal barrier to accelerate antioxidant availability. Women who have taken shilajit reported decreased mood swings, reduced anxiety levels, and increased vitality.
Chasteberry
Commonly known as vitex, chasteberry works with the pituitary gland to regulate estrogen and progesterone levels in the body. Balanced levels of these two hormones can help reduce PMS symptoms and menstrual pain. Chasteberry is available in liquid extract form or as a natural supplement.
Oats
Are you surprised to see oats on this list of traditional herbal remedies? Generations of women have reported that oats help to alleviate menstrual cramps and increase libido. Several studies have found that oats work to stimulate the central nervous system, helping to increase physical and emotional desire for sexual relations. Other research confirms that oats help to release testosterone, an integral hormone for sexual desire in both sexes.
Hormonal imbalance may be the reason behind low sex drive, sexual disinterest, or severe menopausal symptoms. As women begin to restore balance, they may experience a more positive outlook, higher sex drive, and higher self-confidence. If you are going to purchase any of these herbs in supplement form, make sure they are free of binders, fillers, or low-quality ingredients.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
