Polycystic ovary syndrome or polycystic ovarian syndrome, PCOS for short, is a condition that occurs in women, usually beginning in adolescence and continuing through the childbearing years. This condition, according to the University of Chicago Medical Center, is caused by a hormonal imbalance that can cause symptoms such as excessive hair growth, acne and infertility. Medications are usually prescribed to restore the hormonal balance and also to decrease the severity of the symptoms. Some herbs may also help reduce the symptoms of PCOS. Check with your doctor before using any herbal supplement.
Licorice Root
Unlike the candy of the same name, the herb licorice is used in natural medicine to treat several conditions including stomach ulcers, infections and osteoarthritis, according to Medline Plus. Additionally, herbal licorice is used to treat infertility as well as PCOS, and is often combined with other herbs to treat these conditions. Unfortunately, licorice root can also cause an unwanted interaction with several prescription medications, foods and medical conditions, so it's a good idea to check with your doctor before using this herb.
Chaste Tree Berry
Chaste tree berry, also known as chasteberry, is an herbal remedy used to treat hormonal imbalances in women, according to Drugs.com. The name of the herb comes from its many uses in treating problems related to the female reproductive organs. This herb is also used to treat symptoms related to PCOS, such as painful breasts, infertility, excess bleeding and excess production of milk. If you are currently trying to get pregnant or are on a prescription medication for hormonal imbalance, chasteberry should not be used without the expressed recommendation of your physician.
Saw Palmetto
One of the many symptoms of PCOS, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, is excess hair growth, also known as hirsutism. This is caused by a hormonal imbalance that is characterized by an excess of male hormones, called androgens. As a result, hair develops on areas like the face, chest and abdomen and if left untreated, can lead to additional masculinization symptoms. Saw palmetto is an herb that has anti-androgenic effects that may help reduce symptoms such as hirsutism. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that research has not yet shown whether saw palmetto is effective in treating symptoms of PCOS and they add that it should be taken with a doctor's supervision because it may interact with medications and fertility.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, is an herb used to treat symptoms related to hormonal fluctuations that occur in menopause. These symptoms, which include cramping, anxiety and PMS, can also occur if you have PCOS. Do not use black cohosh if you have a pre-existing liver condition or have a hormone-sensitive medical condition.
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