Chinese Herbs for Women

Many Chinese herbs balance hormones and strengthen the female reproductive system. Herbalists who practice traditional Chinese medicine use these herbs individually or together to treat women's health issues, such as premenstrual symptoms, menstrual pain, irregular periods, infertility and menopausal symptoms.

Dang Gui

Dang gui, or dong quai, is also known as Chinese Angelica and is commonly referred to as the "female ginseng." Dang gui strengthens the female reproductive system and regulates menstruation. It treats irregular menses, painful periods, fatigue and aids in recovery from childbirth. According to Medline Plus, dang gui may contain phytoestrogens, which are chemicals that act like estrogen. Thus, it is used to treat symptoms of menopause.

Shan Yao

According to Medline Plus, shan yao, also known as wild yam, may contain constituents that act as precursors to estrogen and progesterone. In Chinese medicine, it strengthens the kidneys and spleen, which are important organs in regulating the female reproductive system. Shan yao treats painful menstruation, hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. It also reduces sweating, alleviates diarrhea, reduces urinary frequency and decreases excessive vaginal discharge.

Sheng Ma

Sheng ma, also known as black cohosh, is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to treat hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and other menopausal symptoms. It also treats menstrual irregularities and induces labor, since it can stimulate uterine contractions. Chinese herbalists traditionally use sheng ma to treat prolapsed organs and headaches and to reduce fatigue.

Shu Di Huang

Shu di huang is also known as cooked rehmannia root or Chinese foxglove root. In Chinese medicine, shu di huang strengthens the kidneys and nourishes the blood. It treats irregular menstruation, excessive uterine bleeding and postpartum bleeding. It also benefits menopausal women, since it helps reduce hot flashes and night sweats, improves memory, reduces premature graying of hair and slows premature aging.