Estrogen is a hormone present in both males and females, but occurs in higher levels in women. It is manufactured in the sex organs, and helps regulate sexual development, reproduction and menstrual cycles. It also helps prevent bone loss. Low estrogen levels are associated with irregular periods, low sex drive, infertility and osteoporosis. Estrogen therapy is prescribed to treat low estrogen levels. In addition, certain herbs may help increase estrogen naturally. Check with your health care provider before using herbs for medicinal purposes.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh, also known as black snakeroot and squawroot, is a flowering plant native to North American. It was used traditionally by herbalists to treat menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms. It is a common herbal remedy used today for the same purposes. It has natural plant estrogens called phytoestrogens. And while scientific studies to date have shown mixed results, experts at the University of Maryland Medical Center conclude that black cohosh may be a safe and effective alternative for women who are not able to take hormone replacement therapy. As this herb is a natural source of estrogen, it should not be taken by pregnant women or cancer patients. Consult a health-care professional about proper use of black cohosh.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is an Asian herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat irregular periods, menstrual cramps and reproductive problems. St. Agnes Medical Center in Fresno, California explains that research has been unable to determine whether or not dong quai promotes estrogen production in the body or blocks it. And, while it is believed to help relieve pain and relax the muscles of the uterus, studies are lacking which validate these claims. Additionally, many women have reported that it does help alleviate hot flashes, but again, the research has thus far been inconclusive. Check with your doctor before using dong quai for low estrogen.
Chaste Berry
Chaste berry is a fruiting plant found throughout Central Asia and the Mediterranean. It is used by herbalists to help balance hormones and treat infertility. It may also be used to address other gynecological issues such as tender, swollen breasts and both suppressed periods and heavy bleeding. Although it appears to have estrogen-like effects, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that it contains precursors to steroidal hormones. MSKCC also cites studies, one published in the "British Medical Journal" in January 2001, and the other from the "Journal of Women's Health and Gender-Based Medicine," from April 2000, that showed that chaste berry is effective in relieving symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome, including bloating, headache and anxiety.
Wild Yam
Wild yam, not to be confused with sweet potato, was used traditionally in native American folk medicine. Like chaste berry, it contains precursors to steroidal hormones and is used by herbalists to help balance hormone levels. It may be recommended to treat dysmenorrhea, ovarian pain, pain following childbirth, menstrual cramps, and other symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome. It contains a phytoestrogen called diosgenin. However, the University of Maryland explains that diosgenin does not appear to be converted into estrogen in the body. As it does contain natural phytoestrogens, wild yam should not be used by pregnant women or cancer patients. In addition, diosgenin may interact with birth control pills or other hormone replacement medications. Check with your doctor before trying wild yam.
