Hormones are natural chemical messengers that stimulate or inhibit biochemical processes in the body's tissues. When there is too much or too little of a hormone, the resultant disregulation of biochemical processes can cause physical and emotional symptoms. Some herbs may help with hormone support. Use them under the supervision of a qualified health care professional.
Menopause Support
During menopause, a woman's body reduces its production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Menopause is a natural process, but it is often accompanied by symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings and insomnia. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that black cohosh, soy, dong quai and red clover are commonly used for menopause symptoms. Phytoestrogens, plant compounds with a structural similarity to the female sex hormone estrogen, may be responsible for the these herbs' effects.
Andropause Support
The reduction in testosterone that men experience as they get older is sometimes referred to as andropause, the male equivalent to menopause. As this primary male hormone decreases, low libido, fatigue and overall malaise can result. "The Natural Testosterone Plan: For Sexual Health and Energy," author Stephen Harrod Buhner states that pine pollen tincture, nettle root, tribulus, panax ginseng, tienchi ginseng and eleuthero can boost waning levels of testosterone in aging men, resulting in increased energy and overall wellness.
Stress Hormones
The adrenal glands, which are situated atop the kidneys, produce cortisol, adrenaline and noradrenaline, often known as the "stress hormones." These hormones prepare the body for fight or flight in response to threatening situations. Aggressive behavior or sprinting away are no longer useful responses to stress in the modern world, however, and when stress hormones build up in the system, lowered immunity, anxiety and other health conditions may result. According to the book "Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief," adaptogens are herbs that can help mitigate the damage caused by repeated fight or flight responses. Examples of adaptogens include rhodiola, cordyceps, ashwagandha, reishi and schisandra. Consult your physician before adding these or other herbs to your daily regimen.
Considerations and Cautions
Women who have had breast, uterine or ovarian cancer should avoid the use of herbs containing phytoestrogens, according to NCCAM, and according to Buhner, andropause remedies pine pollen and tienchi ginseng may cause allergic reactions in people who are susceptible. Herbs have the potential to adversely interact with medications or reduce their effects and may require different dosages in elderly people and children. Consult a qualified health care provider for personalized advice about the use of herbs for hormone support.
References
- "Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief"; David Winston & Stephan Maimes; 2007
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Menopausal Symptoms and CAM
- "The Natural Testosterone Plan: For Sexual Health and Energy"; Stephen Harrod Buhner; 2007
