Natural Herbal Remedies For Fibroids

Up to 70 percent of women have uterine fibroids, according to the Center for Uterine Fibroids. Also called leiomyomas, uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that arise in the muscle layer of the uterus. The most common symptoms of leiomyomas are abnormal uterine bleeding and pelvic pressure, or there may be no symptoms at all. Certain herbal remedies may be helpful for managing problems associated with uterine fibroids. Before taking herbs to treat your fibroids, consult a botanically trained health care professional for proper diagnosis; a discussion of all treatment options; and advice on herbal forms, dosage and safety.

Baikal Skullcap

Baikal skullcap, also known as barbat skullcap, ban zhi lian and banjiryun, and by its Latin name, Scutellaria barbata, is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat bacterial infections, hepatitis and tumors. The plant grows in Korea and southern China and is distinct from other Scutellaria species plants, which are also called skullcap and are more commonly used in Western herbalism. According to Dr. Tori Hudson, a naturopathic physician and author of the "Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine," baikal skullcap inhibits the overgrowth of uterine smooth muscle cells and contributes to overall decreased fibroid growth. Baikal skullcap's therapeutic properties are attributed to its active constituents -- flavonoids and essential oils. The most common form of medicinal baikal skullcap is the liquid extract. Consult your doctor before taking baikal skullcap.

Red Root

Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that red root, also known by its Latin name Ceanothus americanus, is an herb used for its effect on congestion of the lymphatic system -- a network of vessels that carries fluid to tissues and is involved in immunity, as well as for ailments of the liver and spleen, respiratory infections, mononucleosis and reduction of cysts. Red root is a member of the buckthorn family, and as its common name implies, the root is employed for medical purposes. It has an astringent taste. Red root enhances circulation of body fluids and increases tissue nutrition, thereby supporting immunity and other bodily functions. Your immune system plays an important role in inhibiting the growth of tumors. Red root may be taken as tea, liquid extract or capsule. Red root, like all herbs, can have strong effects on the body, so talk to your doctor about taking red root to treat your fibroids.

Chaste Tree

Chaste tree, also called Vitex agnus castus, is a verbena family plant used for a variety of ailments related to women's health. The berry is utilized medicinally and its taste is pungent. Dr. Tilgner reports that chaste tree regulates the female reproductive tract and is helpful for premenstrual syndrome, endometriosis, menstrual cramps, premenstrual acne, abnormal periods, menopausal symptoms and uterine fibroids. Chaste tree berry works by balancing your female hormones follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin, estrogen and progesterone. This may be helpful for your uterine fibroids as their growth is affected by hormones. Chaste tree berry may be consumed as a tea, dry liquid extract or capsule. Chaste tree can interact with birth control pills and other hormonal therapies, so discuss chaste tree use with your doctor.