Highlights
Herbal remedies for polycystic ovary syndrome are an effective treatment option for PCOS symptoms. PCOS is a complex endocrine disorder that affects 5-15 percent of women and others with a uterus who are of menstruating age. Professional herbalists customize herbal remedies for polycystic ovary syndrome based on their individual needs.
When most people hear the term polycystic ovary syndrome, they assume that PCOS impacts only a woman’s reproductive system, resulting in cysts forming in the ovaries. Most people don’t realize that PCOS disrupts multiple systems and functions throughout the body or that a woman can have polycystic ovary syndrome without ovarian cysts.
A diagnosis of PCOS requires that at least two of the following three conditions are present:
PCOS is a syndrome, a collection of systems that can’t be attributed to a single clear cause. For that reason, PCOS symptoms involve many parts of the body. Women with a history of PCOS can continue to be affected during and after menopause.
The following health concerns are often related to PCOS:
Herbalists help women who have PCOS by creating formulas that often include herbs that support the following:
Countless herbs may be employed to bring about these improvements. A few herbs are used only during certain phases of the menstrual cycle, while others are taken every day. An herbalist can make recommendations regarding specific herbs, amounts to use, and timing. Herbal blends may need to be modified over time.
There’s not a great deal of scientific research available on herbalism yet. However, studies do exist that have concluded that herbal remedies can be helpful for PCOS symptoms.
For example, a 2017 study found that herbal treatments increased the occurrence of menses among overweight women who had PCOS.
The researchers evaluated two groups of women. Women in the first group followed a low-fat diet and increased their exercise levels. The second group followed the same diet and exercise protocol but also received herbs.
These are the results of that study:
A study published in 2019 examined women who had PCOS and had difficulty becoming pregnant. Researchers divided the women into three groups.
All three groups experienced improved menstrual cycle patterns and pregnancy rates. But the women in groups 2 and 3 also had increased antioxidant levels, vital for overall health.
The herbs used in the study included:
Again, more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions, but studies such as these are very promising.
Herbalists develop treatments according to an individual’s specific PCOS symptoms. For example, a woman may have difficulty getting pregnant and present with high androgen levels and rare menses.
An herbalist would recommend a different formula for her than for a woman who has pain from ovarian cysts and embarrassment due to the growth of excessive facial hair.
The need for customization is one reason why consultation with a professional herbalist is crucial.
Herbs are valuable tools in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome. PCOS is a complex condition, so it’s essential to consult with a professional herbalist before beginning an herbal regimen. Your herbalist will also offer ideas to support your treatment, including nutrition and lifestyle recommendations.
A certified herbalist is also knowledgeable about herbs that may interact with any medications you may be taking or interfere with other forms of treatment.
Sound Cycle can help you find relief from the symptoms of PCOS. Follow our blog to learn more about this complex condition.
Visit our provider directory to find an herbalist for PCOS near you.