The pituitary gland is often considered the master gland because it affects the entire body, according to Robert K. Clark in the book "Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the Human Body." This small gland is located at the base of the skull, and secretes hormones that oversee temperature, thyroid activity, urine, testosterone in men and estrogen in women. Different issues can impact the pituitary, including diet and stress. Certain herbs are purported to help with functions of the pituitary gland. But as with all herbs, use caution and check with your doctor before supplementing with them.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng may help the pituitary gland. In the book "Herbs and Nutrients for the Mind: A Guide to Natural Brain Enhancers," naturopathic doctors Chris D. Meletis and Jason E. Barker note that this form of ginseng can benefit the pituitary-adrenocortical system, having a tonic effect on the pituitary gland while stimulating the adrenals. The overall outcome is noted to be better reflexes and mental performance while diminishing fatigue. Do not take this herb if you suffer from high blood pressure or from overactive adrenals.
Vitex (Chasteberry)
Another herb traditionally believed to benefit the pituitary is vitex. This herb specifically works on balancing the menstrual cycle, notes Christopher Hobbs, LAc and Michael Amster, M.D., in their book "Women's Herbs, Women's Health." Vitex does this through its action on the pituitary gland to normalize and regulate ovarian hormone production. It also inhibits the release of the hormone prolactin from the pituitary gland, which can cause menstruation to stop when an excess of this hormone is produced. Due to its possible estrogenic activity, do not take vitex if you suffer from a hormone-sensitive disease.
Tribulus
The tribulus herb may indirectly effect the pituitary gland by way of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), according to registered nurse Pamela Levin in her book "The Female Hormone Journey." This is because the pituitary gland oversees the production of this hormone, which regulates ovarian hormone levels. Tribulus is identified as supporting production of TSH, therefore taking over for an underactive pituitary in this particular function. This may help with issues including missed periods or even infertility. Do not take tribulus if you are on antidepressants or sedatives, or if you are pregnant.
Gotu Kola
Gotu kola is another herb that may have an effect on the pituitary gland. It is considered a tonic for the pituitary, acting as stimulant to promote attention and focus notes Mona Lisa Schulz, M.D., in her book "The New Feminine Brain." Gotu kola may also relieve mild depression and anxiety, adds Schulz, which is it often used for in Southeast Asia. Gotu kola may affect the liver, so do not take it if you suffer from liver issues. Also, the herb may counteract diabetes, cholesterol-lowering and sedative drugs.
References
- "Herbs and Nutrients for the Mind: A Guide to Natural Brain Enhancers"; Chris D. Meletis, ND and Jason E. Barker, ND; 2004
- "Women's Herbs, Women's Health"; Christopher Hobbs, LAc and Michael Amster, MD; 2007
- "The Female Hormone Journey"; Pamela Levin, RN; 2005
- "The New Feminine Brain"; Mona Lisa Schulz, MD; 2005
- "Anatomy and Physiology: Understanding the Human Body"; Robert K. Clark; 2005
