If you are suffering from the effects of imbalanced hormones--acne, oily hair, PMS, hot flashes, irregular periods, mood swings or other symptoms--some natural remedies can help. The most commonly used ones include evening primrose oil, black cohosh herbal extract and sage essential oil.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil contains a high amount of gamma linolenic acid, or GLA, which helps control prostaglandin hormones linked to menstrual cramps and pain, thereby lessening pain and discomfort. In an April 2010 study at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, and published in the "Alternative Medicine Review," 3,000 mg of evening primrose oil along with 1,200 IU of vitamin E was taken daily for six months by women with breast discomfort linked to their menstrual cycles. The scientists concluded that the two remedies may be beneficial for women suffering from painful breasts due to hormonal imbalances. The dosage used in the study is a high dose of evening primrose oil. You may benefit from 1,000 to 2,000 mg, but should consult a physician to determine the best dose for your needs. The ideal dose can vary widely from person to person.
Blach Cohosh
Black cohosh is an herb that has been used by Native Americans for hundreds of years to treat hormonal imbalances linked to menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms. Today, herbalists use the herb or its extract to treat a variety of hormonally linked symptoms, including hot flashes, irritability, mood swings, sleep disturbances, PMS and menstrual irregularities. The herb is available in tea, alcohol extract and supplement form, with varying doses for each. Follow the manufacturer's directions for best results. The herb should not be used by pregnant or lactating women.
Sage Essential Oil
Due to estrogen-like properties, sage essential oil can help balance hormones in both menstruating and menopausal women. It may decrease excessive menstruation and lactation, and alleviate menopausal symptoms like hot flashes. One of the most direct ways to experience the benefits of sage essential oil is through inhalation; diluting the essential oil in a massage oil and massaging it onto the abdomen is another way to benefit from its therapeutic properties.
References
- Pub Med: Vitamin E and evening primrose oil for management of cyclical mastalgia: a randomized pilot study
- Herb Wisdom: Black Cohosh Benefits
- "Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art"; Kathi Keville and Mindy Green; 2008
