The typical length of a woman's menstrual cycle is 28 days, with menstruation occurring two weeks after ovulation and lasting between three and five days. The cycle length may vary slightly. The National Women's Health Information Center says that 21 to 31 days is a normal range, but the cycle should occur regularly. Long or irregular periods may indicate hormonal imbalance or uterine fibroids. Before using herbs for menstrual complications, women should consult a qualified health-care professional for a proper diagnosis and advice.
Chasteberry
The chaste tree,also known as Vitex agnus-castus, produces chasteberry, a fruit that women have used for thousands of years as a remedy for menstrual problems. Chasteberry interacts with the pituitary gland and hypothalamus to increase the levels of progesterone in a woman's body, and to inhibit follicle-stimulating hormones. The "Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine" refers to chasteberry as the herb most important for regulating and normalizing menstrual cycles. It is available in tablet or capsule form, as a solid extract, and as a liquid. It may take up to six months of use for chasteberry to relieve prolonged bleeding. Because of chasteberry's effect on important reproductive hormones, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine advises pregnant or nursing women, women on birth-control pills, and women with breast cancer to avoid its use. The herb's effect on the brain's dopamine receptors makes it unsafe for use by people who take selegiline, levodopa, and other medications related to dopamine. Minor complications such as stomach upset, dizziness, or rashes may also occur.
Ginger
Ginger, or Zingiber officinale, has a wide range of medicinal uses. According to a study published in 2007 in the "Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association," ginger may inhibit the synthesis of an enzyme called prostaglandin, which is linked to excessive menstruation. The report also found that ginger's anti-inflammatory properties may play a role in its effect on heavy menstrual flow, or menorrhagia. Use caution when considering ginger for menorrhagia, since the herb has blood-thinning properties, and has also been cited as an aid for inducing menstruation. A health-care professional can tell you if ginger is appropriate for your situation. Fresh ginger, ginger oil, tincture, extract, capsules, and tea are all available. Taking them may cause digestive upset. People who take blood thinners, including aspirin, should avoid ginger.
Yarrow
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) got its name from Achilles, the Greek warrior. Though yarrow has many traditional uses, including reducing inflammation and staunching minor wounds, few studies have investigated the herb's efficacy. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests that yarrow may work by relaxing uterine muscles; "Herbs for Health and Healing" claims that yarrow shortens menstrual periods by directing blood away from the pelvic area. Yarrow is available as a liquid, tincture, tablet, or capsule. It may increase stomach acid and lower blood pressure.
References
- WomensHealth.gov: Menstruation and the Menstrual Cycle
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Chasteberry
- "Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association"; Menorrhagia: A synopsis of management focusing on herbal and nutritional supplements; Anna B. Livdans-Forret et al; December 2007
- "The ABC Clinical Guide to Herbs"; Mark Blumenthal, Josef A. Brinckmann, Bernd Wollschlaeger; 2003
- "The Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Tori Hudson, Christiane Northrup; 1999
