Herbal Remedies for Irregular Periods

Herbal Remedies for Irregular Periods
Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images

Menstrual cycles vary from woman to woman; however, most women get a period every 28 days. Bleeding between periods, passing large clots, bleeding for longer than seven days, or after menopause is abnormal. Herbal remedies may help regulate your menstrual cycle, but they should always be discussed with a doctor before starting to take them.

Chastetree

Chastetree is a small flowering shrub found on southern European river banks and in the Mediterranean region. The plant produces berries that are used to make tinctures, powdered medicines and capsules. No hormonal compunds exist in the herb, although flavonoids in chastetree act like the hormone progesterone and are therefore may be able to balance irregular periods. Slight side effects may occur, including gastrointestinal reactions, itching, rash, headache, fatigue, hair loss, acne, and in rare cases -- increased menstrual flow. Talk to your doctor about using chastetree for irregular periods.

Calendula Flower

Calendula is a flowering plant similar to the marigold. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make the herb a popular topical treatment for wounds and skin irritations, although it has many uses. MedlinePlus says that calendula flower is often used to prevent muscle spasms, to treat menstrual cramping and to start menstrual periods. Calendula flower is safe for most women, although it may be dangerous for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Talk to your doctor before using calendula flower for irregular periods.

Turmeric

Turmeric is widely known for its culinary characteristics and it is used to make curry powder, cheeses and mustard. The plant's seeds, stems, roots and bark have medicinal value, attributed to the substance curcumin, which is purported to have anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant properties, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. In traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric is used to regulate menstruation. Although the herb is safe for most people, high doses may cause nausea, indigestion and diarrhea. Talk to your doctor before using turmeric to treat irregular periods.

References

Article reviewed by GayleZorrilla Last updated on: Dec 26, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments