Helpful Herbs for Women's Health

Herbs can be used to treat a wide variety of health and beauty needs. Dealing with the complicated realm of women's health is no exception, herbs can be used in a variety of ways. They can relieve the problems that come with mensuration, increase fertility, treat infections, and sooth the symptoms of menopause. If you suffer from severe or persistent issues then it is always best to consult a doctor, particularly is your problems interfere with day to day life. However, soothing away cramps or minor irritations involved with the unique problems of being a woman can be easily done with simple washes and infusions. As always, if symptoms persist, because worse, or you have allergic reaction to anything stop using it immediately and consult a doctor. Do not use any herbs or medications while pregnant without consulting an expert. Please do not risk harming yourself or child.

Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) can be used to relieve pain. It is most often used to treat the pain, bloating, and general discomfort common with premenstrual syndrome and during the period as well. Black cohosh, combined with sage, can also be helpful in dealing with menopausal symptoms. I do suggest being cautious not to overuse this herb. Exceeding the relatively small recommended dosage might cause issues with the liver. Avoid it completely if you have current or past problems related to the liver. Consulting with a doctor or expert herbalist before adding to your herbal stores is important if you have health complications or concerns.

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a gentle herb with many uses. Aside from soothing nerves and digestive complaints, chamomile can be used to relieve painful periods as an infusion or tincture. It can also be used externally as a cooled infusion or well diluted essential oil. It can be applied to relieve vaginal irritation or itching.

Chaste berry (Vitex agnus-castus) can help regulate hormones, and is used to treat irregular menstrual cycles, premenstrual syndrome, and symptoms related to menopause. It can also be used to treat poly-cystic ovary syndrome. It is most often used as a tincture.

Chinese angelica (Angelica sinensis) is a traditional herb used in Chinese medicine to treat a variety of issues. It can increase a woman's libido and vitality, regulate periods, treat infertility, and treat anemia. It can be taken as a tincture or added to soups for ease of treatment.

Lady's mantle (Alchemilla xanthochora) is a menstrual regulator and astringent. It can be used to treat heavy and painful periods. It is most affective when used as an infusion, particularly when combined with shepherd's purse and raspberry leaf. A cooled infusion can also be used externally to treat thrush, pruritis, or vaginal inflammation.

Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) is an herb with astringent and toning properties. An infusion can help treat the symptoms of painful and heavy periods.

Rose (Rosa x damascena) has uplifting, soothing, and balancing effects. Rose and mortherwort infusion can reduce headaches and stress related to premenstrual syndrome and menopause. A cooled rose infusion, or diluted essential oil, treatment can be used externally to soothe vaginal irritation or dryness.

Saint John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) is best known for its ability to affect moods. It is proven to relieve symptoms of mild o moderate depression. While it can be helpful with everyday stress and anxiety, it is also good for treating the emotional symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and menopause.

Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) is a traditional herb used in Chinese medicine. It is a tonic herb, considered a restorative. Tinctures made with schisandra can be helpful in dealing with night sweats and to support the body through the changes of menopause. It can also help fight fatigue and stress while restoring stamina.

Vervain (Verbena officinalis) is an herb with antispasmodic properties. It can help relieve pain and reduce tension. Infusions or tinctures can be used to treat headaches related to nervous exhaustion or the menstrual cycle.

If you are growing and harvesting your own plants, make sure that you properly identify each plant prior to using. If you are buying roots or herbs for use, make sure that you are using a reputable source and that you buy something acceptable for internal use. Always err on the side of caution, and if you have any doubts as to the dosage or your reaction to an herb consult an expert. No pain relief or stress reducer is worth risking your greater health.

Sources:

Herbs for Women, Herbal Remedies Info.

Herbs of Women's Health, Blessed Maine Herbs.