Polycystic ovary syndrome, also called PCOS or polycystic ovary disease, is the most common hormonal disorder in women of childbearing age, says the Mayo Clinic. In polycystic ovarian disease, the ovaries contain multiple cysts and side effects can occur from abnormal hormone levels, including excess hair growth, acne and skin problems and weight gain. While polycystic ovarian disease is not curable, medications and supplements can be used to control its symptoms. Prior to taking any supplements, it is best to consult a health care professional to evaluate the safety of the supplements and prevent adverse interactions.
Chasteberry
Chasteberry comes from the chaste tree, which is commonly found in Central Asia and the Mediterranean. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM, chasteberry has been used to treat menstrual problems, some kinds of infertility, acne and premenstrual syndrome. This supplement may help alleviate symptoms of PCOS like acne from the excess androgens produced, menstrual irregularities and infertility. Typically, chasteberry supplements come in capsule forms which can be taken orally. Side effects include upset stomach, rashes, and alterations in hormone levels. NCCAM states that this supplement can interfere with hormonal medications and dopamine-related drugs, so it is best to consult with a health care professional prior to taking this supplement for PCOS.
Gymnema
Gymnema sylvestre is a plant used in Ayurvedic medicine to help treat diabetes and promote insulin's effect on blood glucose, says Natural Health Solutions for PCOS. This supplement has been found to help lower blood sugar and stabilize insulin levels through inhibition of glucose absorption in the intestine. For PCOS, gymnema works similar to the drug metformin, which treats insulin-sensitivity and induces ovulation and stimulates normal menstrual cycles. Natural Health Solutions for PCOS also states that it has been effective as a weight loss supplement by reducing cravings for sweets, which may be beneficial for women with PCOS who struggle with weight gain.
Licorice
Licorice is another natural supplement that women with PCOS can take to relieve symptoms. Licorice has been used for many medicinal properties in both Eastern and Western medicine. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that topical licorice medications have been used to treat skin problems. Licorice also may help reduce body fat. The supplement reduces body fat mass and suppresses a hormone called aldosterone; in high doses, licorice may increase aldosterone levels, which can be dangerous. Side effects typically only occur when large amounts of licorice or glycyrrhizin, a chemical in some forms of licorice, are ingested, but with normal consumption, some side effects like muscle pain or numbness may occur.
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