Herbs for Women

As women we have specific health needs that our male counterparts will never have to suffer through. Nature has provided many natural remedies that have been used for centuries to reduce menstrual cramps, hot flashes, and even aging.

Angelica
Angelia, as called the Herb of Angels. The roots and leaves of Angelica archangelica have warming, strengthening, and energizing properties on reproductive organs. Along with restorative and soothing effects on the digestive, circulatory, and endocrine systems.

For centuries Angelica has been used around the world to regulate menstruation , relieve cramping, menopausal distress, promote healthy circulation, and balance hormones. By integrating angelica into your daily reimen you may also experience the alleviation of constipation and better sleep. Angelica is brimming with antioxidants and is rich in vitamins A, B, and E. Angelica is also abundant in niacin, magnesium and calcium.

Ginseng
Ginseng has been called the Root of Life. References to ginseng have been dated as far back as 5,000 years. Ginseng was once believed to be the fountain of youth due to its energizing and rejuvenating effects. Ginseng is high in antioxidants, phytosterols, and essential fatty acids.

The Chinese and American Indians use ginseng as a fertility aid because of its effects on a womans body. The abundance of plant hormones have a balancing effect on a woman's hormones, menstrual cycle, and glandular system.

Ginseng is an invaluable herb for regulating blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of diabetes. Many studies have also shown ginseng to lower blood pressure and strengthen circulatory system.

Vitamin C reduces the effects of ginseng. If you will be supplmenting with any other herbs of vitamins that contain vitamin c you will need to wait three hours before taking ginseng.

Black Cohosh
The first scientific research on black cohosh was reported by the American Medical Association in 1849. The American Medical Association held found that the root of black cohosh contains volatile oils and plant-based hormones that are effective anti-inflammatories. Many women have found black cohosh to have a soothing effect on menstrual cramps and hormone-related headaches.

Black cohosh is also known as Cimicifuga racemosa, baneberry, bugbane, black snake root, rattleroot, bugwort, and richweed.

Evening Primrose Oil
Native to North America evening primerose oil is a highly researched and studied herb. The active ingredient in evening primerose oil is gama-linolenic acid. Gama-linolenic acid has been shown to reduce breast tenderness, headaches, indigestion, hot flashes, and fatigue. By helping a woman's body form essential fatty acids the gama-linolenic acid aids a woman's heart and reduces inflammation.

If your diet is high in alcohol or saturated fats evening primrose oil will be ineffective as a supplement. Remember to keep your evening primerose oil tincture refrigerated.

If you are pregnant or nursing check with your doctor before supplementing with these or any herbs. Many herbs may be harmful to your baby and can cause premature labor. Be sure to read the entire label for any supplement that you are considering taking. Many herbs have counter indications and toxicity alerts.