Women are the most frequent users of complementary and alternative medicine in the United States, according to the National Institutes of Health. A significant segment of alternative medicine treatments are marketed to issues unique to women's health. For example, PMS alone is responsible for causing 150 symptoms, which may benefit from alternative treatments, such as Ayurvedic herbs and spices. Ayurveda also treats other women's health issues, including pregnancy, sexuality and the health of the female reproductive system.
Shatavari
Shatavari, an Ayurvedic herb that belongs to the asparagus family, improves female fertility and stimulates sexuality. The herb revitalizes the female reproductive system and promotes sexual desire. Shatavari also stimulates the flow of reproductive fluids and balances abnormal menstrual cycles. The herb is appropriate for female health issues occurring from puberty until menopause, according to California-based acupuncturist James Bailey, M.P.H.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha corrects health imbalances in the body, including those affecting the female reproductive system. Examples of imbalances include excessive menstruation, vaginal dryness and absence of sexual desire. Conditions treated with ashwagandha often show improvement after two to three months. The recommended dose is 1 to 2 capsules, taken two times per day.
Licorice
Licorice originated in southeastern Europe and the Middle East. The ancient Greeks documented its medicinal use in the Hippocratic texts more than 2,000 years ago. Ancient Chinese and Roman herbalists used licorice for treating a variety of health conditions. Consuming licorice root treats menopause and menstruation disorders because it contains phytoestrogenic compounds. Licorice root may be particularly effective for alleviating night sweats during menopause.
Fenugreek
Ayurvedic practitioners in India often prescribe fenugreek as an aphrodisiac. According to the herb's traditional use, fenugreek also increases milk production for lactating women. Its galactagogue effect works quickly in most cases. The recommended dose is three capsules, taken three times per day, according to certified breastfeeding educator Cheryl Taylor.
References
- "Yoga Journal": Lost That Lovin' Feeling?
- "The Herb Companion": Natural Remedies for PMS
- The Epicentre: Encyclopedia of Spices: Licorice
- Dr. Jay Gordan: Mother's Milk, How to Increase Your Supply
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Fenugreek
- National Institutes of Health: The Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the United States
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