Uterine fibroids affect approximately 30 percent of women between ages 25 to 44, according to the National Institutes of Health. These tumors grow on the lining inside the uterus or along the outside wall. They are usually benign growths, but their size and location often result in symptoms that range from mild abdominal pressure to heavy menstrual bleeding, including hemorrhages that require medical intervention.
Women of childbearing age who want to avoid a hysterectomy—the most successful treatment for fibroids—often use herbs to manage the symptoms of fibroids. However, note that none of the most popular herbal treatments have any supporting scientific evidence as treatments for uterine fibroids.
Chasteberry
Romans, Greeks and Medieval Europeans have a tradition of using chasteberry—also called vitex—to treat female reproductive and menstrual problems. Holistic Online notes that the primary use for chasteberries is to regulate the female reproductive system, including treatment of abnormalities like endometriosis and painful periods. To date, no scientific studies have provided any evidence to support the use of chasteberries to relieve symptoms of fibroids. Since uterine fibroids can cause severe menstrual pain, this herb may decrease your discomfort.
Dr. Lynne Walker, author of “Nature’s Pharmacy,” states that chasteberries normalize hormonal imbalances that contribute to fibroids, slowing their growth and dissolving them. The University of Maryland suggests a daily dosage of 20 to 40mg of a standardized extract of chasteberry to treat fibroids.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is an herb that Native Americans and 19th century doctors traditionally used to treat female reproductive problems like menstrual cramps, according to Holistic Online. Traditional medicine uses also include menopause symptoms and uterine spasms.
Purchase dried black cohosh root to prepare a tea. Large markets sell black cohosh extract and ground powder. The University of Maryland recommends 20 to 40mg of extract, twice a day.
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine considers black cohosh a safe herb, but cautions that some people have experienced adverse side effects, including liver failure and hepatitis. The limited studies to date have neither investigated the long-term effects of black cohosh nor provided any evidence supporting its use for treating fibroids.
Dong Quai
Dong quai’s use for painful menstruation caused by fibroids and other female reproductive system irregularities comes from traditional Chinese medicine. Europeans adopted the use of dong quai extracts during the 19th century. Holistic Online notes that herbal practitioners believe that it balances female hormones and that it has antispasmodic properties.
Medline Plus states that although dong quai has been the focus of some animal studies, this herb lacks reliable scientific evidence for its use as a treatment for fibroids. Its effect on naturally occurring estrogen is a particular concern, because it appears to be a source of plant-based estrogen.
Holistic Online suggests that you take 3 to 4g per day in two to three doses. Natural foods and herb stores sell dong quai in capsules, dried powder and tablets. Traditional Chinese medicine requires that you avoid eating fruit while taking this herb.
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