Menstruation is regulated by the female sex hormones. Factors such as diet, caffeine intake, smoking, stress and even prescription medications can cause changes in menstrual cycles. It is important to discuss irregular periods with your gynecologist or primary care doctor. Some herbs may help regulate periods naturally. Check with your health care provider before trying any herbal remedies.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is an herbal remedy for infrequent or scant periods. It is an emmenagogue, meaning it contracts the uterus and helps initiate menstruation. Herbalists use it to treat menstrual problems, high blood pressure and menopause and to balance female hormones. According to the Clayton College of Natural Health herb reference guide, black cohosh was traditionally given to women about a week before delivery to help facilitate birth. The guide does warn that the herb can provoke miscarriage and should otherwise not be used during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using black cohosh.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is a Chinese herbal remedy for premenstrual syndrome and irregular periods. It has been used for thousands of years in China, Japan and Korea, and is often used in traditional Chinese medicine today to treat high blood pressure, heart disease and painful or absent periods. The University of Maryland Medical Center cites a few studies that show dong quai contains compounds that may help reduce pain, dilate blood vessels and relax uterine muscles. Because the herb has not been studied for safety or effectiveness, check with your health care practitioner for appropriate use of dong quai.
Motherwort
Motherwort has a variety of uses in herbal and folk medicine. Traditionally, the herb has been used to treat irregular heartbeat, heart palpitations, nervousness, insomnia and suppressed menstruation. In China, women drink motherwort tea after childbirth to help the uterus recover. An article from Mississippi Baptist Medical Center's website explains that the main chemical compounds in the plant may induce labor and menstruation. Motherwort should be taken only under the direction of a trained health care professional.
Wild Yam
Wild yam, not to be confused with sweet potato, is another common herb with a variety of purported uses, including as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, neuralgia, diverticulitis, colic and premenstrual syndrome. It is naturally anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that wild yam contains a phytoestrogen called diosgenin, which was used to make the first birth control pills in the 1960s. So far, scientific studies have been unable to verify the herb's ability to increase estrogen or progesterone in the body. It is typically combined with other herbs such as black cohosh when treating menstrual irregularities. Check with your doctor before using wild yam for medicinal purposes.
