Complementary and alternative medicine regularly prescribes herbal supplements to stave off the effect of hormonal imbalances. Herbs such as wild yam root, black cohosh and chaste tree are often used for their ability to either imitate natural hormones in the body or enhance the body's ability to produce the lacking hormones more effectively. Before using herbal supplements, you should consult your doctor, particularly if you are already taking hormonal drug therapy.
Wild Yam Root
Wild yam root is used in the alternative natural treatment of hormonal imbalances, particularly in women. Clayton College of Natural Health says that the herb promotes glandular balance and it is used to treat dysmenorrhea, ovarian neuralgia, cramps and pre-menstrual syndrome. Wild yam root is effective, according to the college, because it contains hormonal precursors for progesterone and other cortical steroids. The key uses of wild yam root include for menopause and hormonal balance.
Chaste Tree
According to The University of Maryland Medical Center, chaste tree may help balance hormones by reducing prolactin levels. Chaste tree must be taken for 12 to 18 months, according to the university, to see results. The university also refers to a small study where women with amenorrhea started having periods after taking chaste tree for 6 months. Chaste tree is not recommended if you are already taking hormone therapy.
Black Cohosh
The University of Maryland Medical Center also reports that black cohosh is believed to have estrogen-like effects, and it is sometimes used to treat menopausal symptoms. Women to Women supports the use of black cohosh to combat hormonal imbalance brought on by menopause. The herb is said to be a phytocrine, which is an agent that enhances the body's ability to balance estrogen by imitating some of that hormone's natural functions.
