Are you looking for freedom from PMS?
Do you want to ease the effects of stress — and age gracefully?
How about something that will tone your skin and make you glow from the inside out?
Here are 5 herbs for women that will do just that and more!
1. Ashwagandha
Also known as winter cherry, Withania somnifera, and Indian ginseng.
Ashwagandha has a long history of traditional use in Ayurvedic medicine. Many of its benefits are of particular help for women.
The herb is known for its anti-stress and anti-anxiety benefits, with modern studies showing its effectiveness. The herb calms the nervous system and promotes restful sleep, which in turn keeps us healthy and helps us to age gracefully! What woman doesn't want that?
Are you dealing with other issues? Ashwagandha is also known for increasing fertility, balancing hormones during menopause, increasing energy levels, and improving overall mood.
Not to mention, reducing your risk of cancer, Alzheimer's, periodontal disease, and type 2 diabetes, while increasing muscle strength, and protecting your heart and liver.
Whether in cut root or powdered form, this is definitely an herb to know about!
2. Chaste Tree/Vitex
Also known as chaste tree berry and Monk's pepper.
Chaste tree is truly an herb for women, used almost exclusively for issues related to the menstrual cycle. It has long been used as a hormone stabilizer, to regulate menstruation, fight PMS, and support fertility.
It has also been noted to have benefits during conception and pregnancy, and can be used throughout menopause to balance hormones (source).
Please note that pregnant women should always work with their health care provider when using any herbs.
3. Nettle
Quảng cáo
Also known as stinging nettle or common nettle.
Nettles are often considered to be a “weed”. They are easily recognized by the red rash and sharp sting caused by contact with the leaves.
Despite their stinging reputation, the plant is also nourishing medicine. And don't worry — once cooked or dried, the leaves no longer sting.
Nettles act as a tonic to the adrenals and kidneys, which soothes stress, reduces toxicity, and promotes healthy, glowing skin.
Herbalists often recommend the herb for pregnant and lactating women, to reduce excessive bleeding and to improve the quality and quantity of breast milk.
Nettle is high in iron and vitamin K and is great for strong nails and healthy hair.
4. Red Raspberry Leaf
Red raspberry leaf is another vitamin- and mineral-rich herb, high in iron as well as calcium, phosphorous, potassium, magnesium, manganese and vitamins A, C, and E — all of great benefit to women at all stages of life.
There's more!
It also contains a compound known to strengthen the uterine muscles.
The combination of vitamins and minerals leads to strong teeth and bones.
Its hormone-balancing and womb-strengthening properties make it beneficial for pregnant and menstruating women. One study showed that it might shorten labor and reduce complications (source).
5. Dong Quai
Also known as Chinese Angelica or female ginseng.
When I started seeing a doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Dong Quai was one of the first herbs he told me to take. And with good reasons.
Dong Quai is known as a liver and blood tonic and is very high in minerals.
It is recommended for both menstrual and menopausal symptoms because it acts to normalize hormones.
Noted herbalist Rosemary Gladstar calls this “one of the most useful of female tonic herbs” (source). She notes that it is best taken before or after menstruation, but not during. It is not recommended during pregnancy.
Do you take herbs for reproductive health? What are your “must know about” herbs?
Disclaimer: I’m not a doctor. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You are responsible for your own health and for the use of any remedies, treatments, or medications you use at home. Herbs are powerful medicine. You should always speak to your health provider before ingesting any herb, especially if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or on any other medications.
