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Herbal Remedies for Uterine Contractions

Jul 14, 2011 | By Tracey Roizman, D.C.
Herbal Remedies for Uterine Contractions
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Uterine contractions occur as a natural process of menstruation, when they are referred to as menstrual cramps, and also during childbirth. Depending on the condition you seek to affect, these muscular contractions of the uterine wall can be either activated or alleviated by a variety of herbs and herbal combinations. Always seek the advice and supervision of your doctor when using herbal remedies.

Variable Effects

Several herbs in traditional medicine are used to tone and strengthen the uterus and reproductive system. Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar, in her book "Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health," recommends chaste tree berry, dandelion, dong quai, ginger, oat tops, nettle and raspberry leaf. To promote healthy uterine contractions and relieve cramping during menstrual flow, Gladstar recommends blue cohosh, dong quai, ginger, motherwort, mugwort, pennyroyal and yarrow. To promote uterine contractions, such as to bring on a late menstrual period or initiate labor, particularly strong herbs are recommended, such as blue cohosh, cotton root bark, parsley, penny royal, rue and tansy. Some herbs contain oxytocin, a hormone that promotes uterine contractions. Certain herbs work by irritating the lining of the uterus, and some are toxins in addition to benefiting uterine function. Always use herbs under the supervision of a health-care provider well-versed in their effects, potential side effects and proper dosage.

Berberine

Berberine, a compound found in Oregon grape, provides a number of health benefits, including antibacterial activity, sedative and anti-convulsant effects, blood pressure-lowering effects and uterine-stimulating effects, according to Joe Graedon, author of the book "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies." By contrast, a study published in the January 2011 issue of the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology," found that the Chinese herbal formula known as xiang-fu-si-wu, which contains high quantities of berberine, effectively inhibited uterine contractions in laboratory animals. Researchers of the study suggest that the Chinese herbal formula may be useful for alleviating menstrual irregularities due to uterine contraction and cramping.

Increased Blood Flow

Herbs such as aloe, juniper, pennyroyal, goldenseal, black cohosh tansy and thuja stimulate menstruation by promoting blood flow to the uterus and pelvis and are known as emmenagogues. Juniper has been found to have toxic effects on developing fetuses in animal studies, and proper supervised use of this herb is urged. Additionally, although juniper increases uterine activity, long-term use or high doses can lead to kidney pain and damage and convulsions, according to Holly Pahneuf, author of the book "Herbs Demystified: a Scientist Explains How the Most Common Herbal Remedies."

Uterine Relaxation

Black cohosh has traditionally been used in herbal medicine as a treatment for menstrual cramps and to relax the uterus to alleviate false labor pains and prevent miscarriage, says naturopath Tori Hudson, author of the book "Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine: Alternative Therapies and Integrative Medicine." Crampbark, black haw and valerian, as well as false unicorn root, wild yam, passionflower and German chamomile can all be used in combinations to enhance their individual benefits. Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a qualified health-care practitioner who is trained in their use, benefits, side effects and dosages.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Lochridge Last updated on: Jul 14, 2011

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