The current negative attitude is reflected not only in linguistics but in actual treatment as well. It truly saddens me to see many woman having needless hysterectomies and taking chemicals that are destructive to the life force of the body. Tranquilizers and mind altering drugs are big business when it comes to depression and anxiety associated with PMS and menopause. Woman are frightened into thinking that if they don’t take synthetic estrogen they will succumb to all kinds of problems, such as osteoporosis, as they get older. I will not even consider doing synthetic estrogen replacement therapy. The choice I have made for myself comes from understanding what my body needs to stay balanced and healthy. I also know that there are safe, natural remedies that can be beneficial in maintaining balance throughout this cycle. As a woman I can’t dismiss the increased possibility of breast cancer from taking synthetic hormones. I know there is data to support what I am saying. There are many factors that can lead to cancer, but know in my heart, that much of what we do allopathically to woman is killing them. Perhaps this is a strong statement, but I have held the hand of those who wish they chose otherwise.
I address the wise woman in all of you. Your cycles are natural. Many of the imbalances woman experience in their cycle can be corrected through nutrition and alternative remedies, such as herbs. There seems to be a great deal more imbalance today because of toxicity and malnutrition. You would think in a country like ours that woman would not be malnourished--but most of them are. We are eating so many foods void of essential vitamins and minerals that our body needs. As a result, many of our organs and glandular functions are suffering. It would certainly be beneficial to take a preventative approach to keeping our bodies healthy. However, we are most definitely a symptomatic society. It will take more time to reverse the messages that have been deeply programmed in all of us. In the meanwhile, we can begin to take a more natural approach to correcting some of these imbalances. I understand the importance of nourishment through healthy foods and supplementation. I have read and researched my options. This information has given me the opportunity to make better choices for myself. My experience in the field of nutrition and herbalism has given me a basis from which to choose from.
In the wise woman tradition, herbs such as Red Raspberry, Squawvine, Shepard’s Purse, Milk Thistle, Burdock, Ginseng, Sarsaparilla, Crampbark, and Ginger are used for many irregularities in the menses. Red Raspberry is a wonderful strengthening and nourishing herb for the reproductive system. I have used it in many of my formulas. It has been used traditionally for morning sickness during pregnancy. Blessed Thistle, along with Anise or Cumin Seed has been used for healthy milk flow during nursing. Shepard’s Purse acts as an astringent and has been used when there is excessive bleeding and clotting. Crampbark is an herb found in many formulas for cramping. Herbs like Dandelion and Shavegrass have been used for water retention.
It has always been wise to address the liver when there is an imbalance in the cycle because of the many hormones the liver is responsible for. Many studies done on Milk Thistle have shown that this herb has a positive benefit for both the liver and the reproductive system. Chaste Tree Berry, also known as Vitex, has been used in Europe for hormonal imbalances and is now being used in many tonics and elixirs in this country. For female disorders, Helonias Root, also known as False Unicorn, has been used for hot flashes and infertility. There are many more herbs that are used by wise woman to correct or prevent imbalances in the cycle.
Vitamins and minerals in supplement form are also very helpful. Vitamin B Complex, in particular, has an amazing effect on woman with mood swings. Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Iron, Vitamins C and E, and essential fatty acids can play a very important role in correcting imbalances that may be due to deficiencies. Woman with yeast related conditions can benefit from acidophilus supplements and the herb Pau D‘arco (see Last issue).
Exercise and movement are very important during the healing process. It also helps to relieve stress by keeping a journal. I often recommend to my clients that they take the time to nourish themselves mentally and spiritually. This can be done with meditation or quiet time where you are doing something for just you. Often that means creating the time. If you can’t create this time, there is something definitely out of balance--possibly your lifestyle, which has a direct effect on your health and well-being.
Trust the wise woman within. Make the changes necessary that support you, not diminish you.
* Always consult your health professional before taking any herbal formula
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which contains hormonal substances similar to progesterone!