Fibroids are benign tumors that often develop in a woman's uterus. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are the most common type of pelvic tumor, affecting 20 percent of women during their childbearing years. Uterine fibroids generally occur in woman over the age of 30. Uterine fibroids range in size from being microscopic to weighing several pounds. Though certain herbs may help treat uterine fibroids, consult your doctor before taking them.
Uterine Fibroids
According to the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, every woman is at risk for developing fibroids, and there are three principle types of uterine fibroids: subserosal, submucosal and pedunculated. A woman may have one or all of these types of fibroids. Common indications that you may have uterine fibroids include an enlarged abdomen, decreased red blood cell count, heavy periods, painful sex, posterior leg pain, pelvic pain, bloating and constipation. African-American women are more commonly affected by this condition than others.
Herbal Help
Certified nutritional consultant and nutrition researcher Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that most women with uterine fibroids do not know it, and that certain herbs may help treat them. According to Balch, dandelion root, milk thistle, Chinese skullcap root and turmeric rhizome possess antioxidant action, support your liver and help eliminate harmful toxins from your body. Other important herbs in the treatment of uterine fibroids are green tea, for its antioxidant effects, and red clover and burdock, for their ability to cleanse your bloodstream.
A Popular Herb
Red clover is a popular herb in the treatment of uterine fibroids. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, red clover contains compounds called phytoestrogens, which cause similar effects in your body as the female hormone estrogen. Balch states that red clover purifies your blood, relieves menopausal symptoms and is helpful for treating numerous ailments, including bacterial infections, cough, bronchitis, inflammatory bowel disorders, liver disease, skin disorders and weakened immune systems.
Additional Information
You should visit your doctor if you experience symptoms associated with uterine fibroids or if your menstrual bleeding is sufficient to saturate a tampon more than once per hour. You have a greater chance of developing fibroids if your female relatives have fibroids, you are of African-American ancestry, and are obese. Before using herbal remedies to help treat your uterine fibroids, converse with a qualified health care provider to determine what herbs are best for you and your health complaint.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Uterine Fibroids
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: Uterine Fibroids
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Red Clover
