Natural Remedies for a Hormonal Imbalance

In the past, synthetic hormones have been the standard for correcting a hormonal imbalance. Unfortunately, many of these synthetic products also come with hefty side effects. For many women who would rather not introduce these synthetic chemicals into their bodies, the opportunity is available to use natural remedies to try and correct your hormonal imbalance. Natural remedies allow you to protect your body against the harsh chemicals often found in synthetic hormones, while still returning your body's hormone levels to normal.

Agnus Castus (Chasteberry)

Originally used by Roman husbands as a way to keep their women faithful while they were away at war, the agnus castus herb is now widely used to help regulate problems with menstruation due to hormonal imbalances. A Roman man would spread the leaves of the plant on the sofa, believing that the smell of the herbs would subdue his wife's sexual desires until he came home. Though not effective for this purpose anymore, the leaves do make tea and herbal supplements that studies are now showing can help regulate hormonal changes. The plant stimulates the pituitary gland to release leutenizing hormones, which has the same effect as progesterone.

Cimicifuga Racemosa (Black Cohosh)

Cimicifuga racemosa, when prepared correctly, is believed to help with many gynecological problems associated with hormonal imbalance. The herb is believed to mimic estrogen, and may help in the relief of menopausal and premenstrual symptoms. This plant can be found in many herbal supplements specifically marketed to women.

Eleutherococcus Senticosis (Siberian Ginseng)

Eleutherococcus senticosis, sometimes referred to as Siberian ginseng, has been used in China as a fertility herb for centuries. The herb is believed to have aphrodisiacal properties, but it has also shown some limited benefits for hormone imbalances. It may also help with problems associated with the menstrual cycle and menopause.

Diet

Your diet can also affect your hormone balance. Stick to a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which contain many of the vitamins and nutrients needed to maintain the glands associated with hormone production. Reducing the amount of chemically grown and synthetic foods can also keep your hormones balanced. Opt for less meat and more organic foods in your diet to help regulate all of the important processes in your body, not just your hormones.

Exercise

Exercise can benefit both women and men when used to combat a hormonal imbalance. For women, exercise promotes the production of 17 beta estradiol, an active form of estrogen. This hormone helps to burn fat, as well as increase your energy. As you approach menopause, your body produces significantly less 17 beta estradiol. However, if you continue to exercise, you can keep or increase the level of production, even up through menopause.
For men, exercise mainly affects your testosterone levels. Exercise increases your testosterone levels, as long as your exercise session lasts for at least 30 minutes, as it can take that long for the glands to start producing the hormone. The levels will stay elevated for up to four hours after your exercise session. Exercise also boosts testosterone levels in women.

Resources

• Understanding Hormonal Imbalance