Herbal Products For WOMEN

    Womanhood is something that is given to a very few lucky souls, and it is different for every woman. But, one thing is omnipresent: as daughters, mothers, spouses, friends and co-workers, the default mantra is: “give, give and give”. But sometimes this apparent flow of energy can be out-and-out draining.

Herbs at this point of time can be your best friends. By assimilating herbs into your everyday wellness regime, you can refuel yourselves, even when you are on your run. And when you fill your own cup, you will have more energy to share with others.

   Woman have been connected to herbs since day one. Nurses, foragers and mothers have passed down this tradition throughout the generations to keep herbalism alive and breathing. Sharing of this knowledge not only keeps them healthy and safe, but also keeps everyone around them safe.

 

Herbs that Work

   Throughout the life cycle of a woman, there are a number of natural transitions she goes through, be it hormonal changes, menstrual cycle, menopause and what not, and all of which are the messengers of the body. From the time of menstruation to child-bearing years and into menopause, a woman’s body is designed to evolve and evolve.

   Beyond healthy lifestyle choices - including a nutritious diet, regular exercise and healthy adaptations to life's daily stresses - there are plenty of ways that women can support their hormonal and reproductive wellness.

 

1.    Black cohosh

Supports a healthy female reproductive system, especially during natural transitions. It supports a healthy female reproductive system. Black cohosh, recognized by its small, feathery white flowers, has been used since the 1800s to support natural hormonal transitions throughout a woman's life. The root contains active constituents called trite pine Glycosides, which are often standardized in modern herbal preparations. 

In one study in 80 menopausal women who were experiencing hot flashes, those who supplemented with 20 mg of black cohosh daily for 8 weeks reported significantly fewer and less severe hot flashes than before they started the supplement.

What’s more, other human studies have confirmed similar findings. Though larger studies are needed, black cohosh appears to be beneficial for alleviating menopause symptoms.

Although you may see many claims online that black cohosh can improve fertility or help you get pregnant, there’s not a great deal of evidence to support this. However, research indicates that black cohosh may improve the effectiveness of the fertility in people who are infertile and which increases their chances of becoming pregnant.

2.  Fenugreek

Supports the optimal production of breast milk. Fenugreek seeds support the optimal production of breast milk, and they are also used to help maintain healthy blood sugar metabolism. The seeds smell faintly of maple syrup, and they are often used in maple-flavoured foods. Fenugreek's seeds are nutritious sources of B vitamins, vitamin C and beta carotene.

Menstrual cramps: Taking 1800-2700 mg of fenugreek seed powder three times daily for the first 3 days of a menstrual period followed by 900 mg three times daily for the remainder of two menstrual cycles reduces pain in women with painful menstrual periods. The need for painkillers was also reduced.

Sexual problems that prevent satisfaction during sexual activity: Taking 600 mg of a specific fenugreek seed extract each day, seems to increase interest in sex in healthy younger women with a low sex drive.

Increasing response to sexual stimuli in healthy people: Taking 600 mg of a specific fenugreek seed extract each day, seems to improve ability and interest in sex in older men that have started to lose interest and in healthy younger men.

High levels of cholesterol or other fats in the blood: Limited research shows that fenugreek lowers cholesterol levels. Early research shows that taking fenugreek seed reduces total and low-density lipoprotein (bad) cholesterol. But the effects of fenugreek seed on high-density lipoprotein (good) cholesterol and triglycerides are inconsistent.

Breast-feeding: There are some reports that taking fenugreek capsules or drinking fenugreek tea beginning shortly after giving birth can increase milk production in breastfeeding women. Fenugreek seems to help the most when it is started a day or two after giving birth. But not all research agrees. And some research shows that taking fenugreek is less beneficial than taking Indian borage or palm date.

 

 

3.  Maca

Supports a healthy libido and normal fertility. Maca is knobby root vegetable that resembles a turnip, which is a relative of this native Peruvian plant. Maca grows best in the harsh environment of the high Andes, where the Inca warriors used it as a caffeine-free performance enhancer. Maca root is still used to support healthy energy and stamina, and it is also used to support a healthy libido in women (and men). Recent research has shown that it can support natural fertility by helping to maintain normal reproductive hormone levels. It has a delicious, somewhat nutty taste, and the powdered form of this herb can be added to smoothies, juice or oatmeal. Reduced sexual desire is a common problem among adults.

Consequently, interest in herbs and plants that naturally boost libido is great.
Maca has been heavily marketed as being effective at improving sexual desire, and this claim is backed by research. Menopause is defined as the time in a woman's life when her menstrual periods stop permanently. The natural decline in oestrogen that occurs during this time can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms. These include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, sleep problems and irritability. One review of four studies in menopausal women found that maca helps in reducing menopause symptoms, including hot flashes and interrupted sleep. Additionally, animal studies suggest that maca can help protect bone health. Women have a higher risk of osteoporosis after menopause.

 

4.    Red Clover

A rich source of naturally occurring phytoestrogens. Red Clover has long been used to support women's health. A rich source of naturally occurring phytoestrogens, it encourages healthy detoxification and promotes healthy skin through its support for the body's lymphatic functions. Red Clover is a highly nutritive plant, and it supports the body during menopause. This herb, which is often used as food for grazing livestock. As such, it has a rich history of use in Russian and Chinese herbalism. 

In alternative medicine, red clover is said to help with the following conditions. Note, however, that research hasn't shown that the herb is conclusively effective for these or any other health concerns.

A number of small studies have been done to see if red clover may help relieve the discomforts of menopause, especially hot flashes. Though you may hear some anecdotal support for this, there has been no conclusive evidence to back it up.

5.    Vitex

Supports female hormone production and balance, especially during the transitions of life. Healthy hormone levels are necessary for physical and emotional wellbeing. Vitex has been used since the time of Hippocrates to support gynaecological health, particularly for the changing seasons and cycles of life. It has traditionally been used to support hormone production and balance. This herb's berries promote a healthy mind and body throughout the menstrual cycle and during the transition into menopause. Vitex is also called Chaste Tree. In ancient times its leaves were strewn at the feet of clergy in an effort to keep them as the plant's name implies!

A nutritional supplement containing a blend of vitex, green tea, L-arginine, vitamins (including folate), and minerals may help improve fertility in women.

The study involved 93 women (ages 24 to 42) who had tried unsuccessfully to conceive for six to 36 months. Three months into the study, 26 percent of the study members treated with the vitex-containing supplement had become pregnant, compared to just 10 percent of those given a placebo. This finding indicates that nutritional supplements could provide an alternative or adjunct to conventional fertility therapies.

 

(These herbs are not intended for use during pregnancy; please consult with your health-care professional before using any herbs during pregnancy or while breast-feeding.)