Estrogen, the hormones essential for female sexual development, including the growth of female reproductive organs and reproductive system processes, regulates the menstrual cycle and prepares the uterus for conception. Some women have health conditions, such as perimenopause and menopause, that warrant increasing estrogen stores. Estrogen supplements confer unpleasant side effects, such as vaginal dryness and unwanted hair growth in some women. Herbal supplements help restore estrogen levels and reduce symptoms of estrogen deficiency. A health care provider should always review the use of herbs for medicinal purposes.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine that can restore estrogen levels in the body. The plant is naturally high in estrogens, or phytosterols, and may alleviate symptoms associated with deficient estrogen stores. The recommended dose of dong quai for estrogen deficiency is 500 mg two times per day, or 1/2 tsp. of the tincture, two times per day.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is an estrogenic herb particularly effective for reducing menstrual cramps and hot flashes as well as relieving congestion of the uterus, according to website Holistic Online. The recommended dose is 250 mg in capsule or tablet form, two to four times per day or 1/2 tsp. of tincture, twice daily.
Red Clover
Red clover active estrogenic compound is called coumestrol that affects the ovaries. The herb is particularly useful for treating ovarian cysts. The recommended dose for red clover is 1,000 mg to 2,000 mg in capsule form per day. Holistic online recommends taking 1/2 to 1 1/2 tsp. of red clover tincture, up to three times per day.
