Using Herbs For Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

PCOS is a complicated condition that can involve many glands including the thyroid, adrenals and pancreas. It also is something to be taken seriously because women with PCOS are more likely to develop hypertension, diabetes, endometriosis and even cancer. But this is not something that you have to live with. In fact, by identifying your individual case, you can make changes and treat yourself naturally with amazing results. PCOS is a complicated condition that can involve many glands including the thyroid, adrenals and pancreas. It also is something to be taken seriously because women with PCOS are more likely to develop hypertension, diabetes, endometriosis and even cancer.

Natural options are highly effective in cases of PCOS, and can make a tremendous difference in alleviating symptoms and reducing associated risks. There are a number of factors involved in the development of PCOS, which makes each case individual and unique:

* Insulin resistance * Ovarian dysfunction with surges in estrogen, LH and lowered FSH levels. * Excess weight gain which can increase the levels of estrogen. * Adrenal dysfunction. * Imbalances with the relationship between the hypothalamus and the pituitary. * Genetic predisposition. * Leptin hormone regulation.

Also the symptoms of PCOS can be as varied as the history leading up to it. Serious menstrual irregularity or excessive bleeding is common along with insulin issues, infertility, hirsutism or alopecia, adult acne, hyperprolactinemia, pain. As a result there are many aspects that need to be addressed with herbal therapy. Some are more symptomatically-based while others are focused on the core contributing factors. Which are used and in what ratios is determined by the symptoms, the length of time the condition has been apparent and the history of the individual.

For lack of menstruation, to normalize follicle development, to improve fertility and to tonify the reproductive system: white peony, tribulus, wild yam, shatavari, dong quai, rehmannia, black cohosh, false unicorn root.

To decrease androgens: white peony, licorice, dietary soy.

To decrease LH levels: black cohosh, hops, bugleweed, white peony and licorice.

To treat latent hyperprolactinemia: chaste tree and white peony.

To support the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle: chaste tree.

To reduce insulin resistance: gymnema, goat’s rue, fenugreek, gentian, Korean ginseng, eleuthero, sarsaparilla.

To support liver function: milk thistle for phase I. schisandra, turmeric and rosemary for phase II. Bupleurum is added for especially long menstrual cycles.

To reduce cardiovascular risk: Korean ginseng.

To support adrenal function: licorice, rehmannia, ashwaganda.

To soften scarring: calendula, gotu kola, dan shen.

To treat cysts: thuja, poke root, red clover, violet leaves.

To reduce hirsutism: licorice, white peony, damiana, saw palmetto and sarsaparilla.

Licorice and White Peony are a combination that seems to be most beneficial in normalizing testosterone levels and producing regular ovulation in women with PCOS. Some women have even become pregnancy after this treatment.

But there are lots of lifestyle things that can also create the change in body environment that is essential for long-term success. Generally a insulin-resistance diet can help tremendously, as many studies indicate a relationship between cyst and tumor formation and sugar consumption. Regular exercise is also incredibly helpful for increasing circulation and normalizing metabolism. Including lots of green vegetables and taking a whole food fiber can help tremendously.

A huge change is veering away from exposure to xeno-estrogens whenever possible which are present often in soy, dairy, meats, some cleaning products, cosmetics and even water. Coffee, alcohol and tobacco are all no-nos for a while and reducing sugar and salt intake can make a big difference.

Once a substantial change has occurred, small amounts of originally banned foods can be added back in and the body responses evaluated. But staying away from external hormones remains a critical issue.

PCOS is not something that you have to live with. In fact, by identifying your individual case, you can make changes and treat yourself naturally with amazing results.