According to MayoClinic.com, heavy menstrual bleeding can be caused by ovary problems, hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids and adenomyosis. Excessive menstrual bleeding has a variety of names, including menorrhagia---specifically excessive bleeding during the menstrual cycle---and dysfunctional uterine bleeding, which covers a broader range of menstrual bleeding abnormalities.
Herbal supplementation may help alleviate the symptoms of menorrhagia in addition to proper medical care. Consult your doctor before taking any herbs for heavy menstrual bleeding.
Beth Root Stock
According to the "Physicians Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines," Beth Root Stock or Trillium erectum is indicated for heavy menstrual bleeding and hemorrhoidal bleeding. Side effects include vomitting and gastric irritation. Pregnant women should avoid it.
Black Cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa or Actaea racemosa, more commonly known as Black Cohosh has been shown to be effective in alleviating heavy vaginal bleeding as well as menopausal symptoms of hot flashes, anxiety and night sweats according to an article published in the "Journal of Women's Health." Side effects include diarrhea, vomitting, nausea, low blood pressure and low heart rate. Contraindications include breast cancer and liver disease.
Vitamin A
Although not an herb, vitamin A has great effects on dysfunctional bleeding and cramps. In a study published in the "South African Medical Journal," medical researchers found that in 92 percent of patients, vitamin A helped alleviate heavy menses. Doses of at least 25,000 IU/day during menstruation have been shown to effectively reduce cramping and heavy bleeding.
Warnings
Before taking any herbal supplement, you should first contact your health care provider. It is also important that if you experience dizziness, fainting spells and significant blood loss, you should see your health provider immediately.
References
- "South African Medical Journal"; Vitamin A in the Treatment of Menorrhagia; D.M. Lithgow, M.D. and W.M. Politzer, M.D.; Feb 12, 1977
- "Physicians Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines" 4th ed.; Christof Jaenicke, M.D. and Joerg Gruenwald, Ph.D.; 2007
- "Journal of Women's Health"; A Review of the Effectiveness of Cimicifuga racemosa (Black Cohosh) for the Symptoms of Menopause; Shari Lieberman, Ph.D; 1998
