A condition known as estrogen dominance may occur during menopause when hormone levels are changing and become unbalanced. Estrogen dominance is characterized by higher levels of estrogen, the stimulating hormone, than that of progesterone, the calming hormone. Certain herbs act as nervines, or nerve tonics that quiet the nervous system, which becomes over-stimulated by the presence of excess estrogen. Before taking herbs to balance hormones, consult your practitioner for guidelines based on your condition.
Cascara Sagrada
A low-fiber diet may cause estrogen levels to increase, according to "Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease." Estrogen is excreted through the bowel and when it remains in the body for extended periods, blood levels increase as the hormone is reabsorbed. The primary reason for estrogen remaining in the bowel is due to constipation. Women on high-fiber diets tend to have lower estrogen levels. Cascara sagrada is a stimulating herb, high in fiber, whose bark can be made into a tea and consumed to relieve constipation, according to Herbs2000. The herb triggers peristalsis, tones the digestive system, and is found in many commercial laxatives. By promoting normal bowel function, excess estrogen is removed from the body regularly. The best way to use Cascara sagrada is by making an herbal infusion by steeping the bark in boiling water and drinking at needed. Always use this herb under medical supervision. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid using Cascara Sagrada as should anyone with a bowel obstruction.
Phytoestrogens
Estrogen imbalance is not only prevalent during menopause, but can affect a woman during normal menstruation as well as during peri-menopause. Symptoms of this condition can affect sleep causing insomnia, night sweats and irritability. Phytoestrogens are plant-based estrogens whose properties mimic the action of estrogen and progesterone on the system. When phytoestrogens are used, both progesterone and estrogen levels are supported and returned to normal in the body, according to the American College of Healthcare Sciences. Herbs such as red clover, motherwort, Dong quai have estrogen-lowering properties as do flaxseeds and soybeans. Consult with your herbal practitioner for guidelines pertaining to the use of various phytoestrogenic herbs and foods for the purpose of lower hormone levels.
Chinese Herbs
Certain medical conditions may occur due to high estrogen levels such as endometriosis and fibroids as well as other problems related to the female reproductive system. The Chinese use a multitude of ancient herbs and herbal formulas to regulate hormonal levels. Depending on the condition or the individual's Qi, or energy patterns, Chinese medicine may utilize one of a number of mixtures or herbal tonics such as Shi xiao san, Nei yi wan or Shaofu zhuyu tang fu zhu yu tang, writes the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. These formulas are available from apothecaries that specialize in making Oriental herbal formulas. In addition, both Eastern and Western herbalists may employ other herbs to reduce estrogen dominance and relieve endometriosis such as dandelion, vitex, angelica and saffron. See your herbalist or doctor of Oriental medicine for suggestions for which herbs will be best for your circumstances. Do not self-treat with herbs for endometriosis, fibroids or other potentially serious hormonal problems.
References
- Pacific College of Oriental Medicine: Endometriosis and Chinese Medicine
- "Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease"; Maurice Shils; 2005
- Herbs2000: Cascara Sagrada
- American College of Healthcare Sciences: The Insomnia Epidemics
