Heavy menstrual bleeding, or menorrhagia, can strike a woman at any point in her menstrual cycle. Even though it's commonly associated with perimenopause, it's also caused by hormonal imbalances, uterine tumors or fibroids, ovarian disorders, glandular conditions and even medications, according to The Mayo Clinic. It's vital that patients with recurring instances of menorrhagia seek treatment to rule out reproductive cancers and other serious medical problems. Once serious complications are ruled out, simple fixes like herbal supplements can ease heavy bleeding associated with minor problems.
Cinnamon Bark
Cinnamon bark can ease heavy menstrual bleeding, according to the Association of Women for the Advancement of Research and Education. Cinnamon bark lessens bleeding by lessening uterine contraction or cramps. These cramps dislodge blood and tissue from the uterine wall, and easing them can ease bleeding.
Vitex (Chaste Tree Berry)
Vitex can ease heavy menstruation caused by hormonal imbalances. According to Angela Hywood, N.D, author of Phytotherapy for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, vitex treats menstrual disorders by normalizing progesterone cycles. Vitex takes one to three months of regular use for full efficacy. Some practitioners advise taking a one-week break after week six for the body to rest.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, contains plant-based estrogen and is commonly prescribed for menstrual complaints due to menopause. A common side effect of menopause is flooding, or heavy menstrual bleeding, and plant-based hormonal therapies such as black cohosh can provide relief. The herb should not be taken for more than six months at a time as it causes side effects as headaches and digestive problems.
Herbs to Avoid
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some herbs naturally thin the blood and can make heavy menstrual cycles worse. This is especially true of ginger, but also of common dosages of feverfew, ginkgo, garlic, ginseng, licorice and Chinese skullcap.
References
- The Mayo Clinic: Menorrhagia
- Association of Women for the Advancement of Research and Education: Remedies for Menopausal Symptoms
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Menstrual Disorders
- American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology: Herbal Products for Menopause
- Phytotherapy for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) By By Angela Hywood N.D. & Kerry Bone Oct 23, 2006
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