10 Best Herbs for Female Hormone Balance

Link to Natural Health & Organic Living Blog

Posted: 06 Sep 2014 08:00 AM PDT

Decreased sexual desire, low energy, and hormonal imbalance can cause a great deal of stress for women, contributing to a low quality of life. Of course, environmental toxins and pseudo-hormones (like BPA) only make the situation worse. Fortunately, a woman of any age can naturally balance and restore her hormone levels with these 10 herbs, all of which have been validated by modern science.

1. Ashwagandha

A mainstay of Ayurveda, ashwagandha has been shown to reduce stress hormones (ie., cortisol), a factor known for destabilizing endocrine function and early aging in women. As it stimulates blood flow to a woman's reproductive organs, ashwagandha may increase arousal and sensitivity, making it a popular choice for women looking to regain their sex drive and satisfaction. Women suffering through menopause also report significant improvements in alleviating common symptoms such as hot flashes, anxiety, and depression. ^[1]

2. Avena Sativa

Generations of women swear by avena sativa–or oats, being its common name–as a libido enhancer, alleviator of menstrual cramps, and general aphrodisiac. It is believed to increase blood flow and stimulate the central nervous system, encouraging the physical and emotional desire for sex. Researchers also believe avena sativa frees bound testosterone, an essential hormone for sexual desire in both genders.

3. Catuaba bark

The Tupi Indians of Brazil discovered and celebrated the many health benefits of Catuaba, particularly its effect as a libido enhancer. According to Brazilian research, the bark contains yohimbine, a known aphrodisiac and powerful stimulant. It stimulates the central nervous system, thereby creating greater energy and a more positive mood. ^[2]

4. Epimedium

Commonly known as Horny Goat Weed, many women take epimedium for its incredible menopause-relieving effects. ^[3] Alkaloids and plant sterols, especially icariin, act similarly to testosterone and have been found more effective than many current drug therapies, but without the side effects. Like other hormone-balancing herbs, it also encourages blood flow to a woman's reproductive organs.

5. Maca (root)

Also known as Peruvian Ginseng, the indigenous people of the Andes have used Maca root to approach infertility, sexual dysfunction, hot flashes, sleep disruptions, and even night sweats associated with menopause. ^[4] It's also a commonly-used aphrodisiac and libido stimulant. This shouldn't be a surprise as it's loaded with phytonutrients and zinc, an element essential for supporting sexual-related hormones. Women who have used maca root report greater sexual desire and more satisfying sex. ^[5]

6. Muira puama

European explorers brought this little herbal gem, termed "potency wood," back from the New World. It is known to calm nerves and relieve anxiety, and it is also said to increase blood flow to the pelvic area. Women who use muira puama report greater sexual desire, more satisfying intercourse, and more intense orgasms. ^[6]

7. Shilajit

Prized by both traditional Indian and Chinese medicines, the Chinese consider it a Jing tonic, or a tonic which aids physical energy and sexual drive. It's formed from organic compressed plant material from the Himalayas. The compounds is then concentrated and purified to create a high-potency extract. Packed with nutrients, amino acids, and antioxidants, its fulvic acid passes easily across the intestinal barrier which expedites antioxidant availability. It also promotes vitality by stimulating cellular ATP production. ^[7] Shilajit is also known to alleviate anxiety, lift mood, and stimulate overall health. ^[8]

8. Suma

A popular aphrodisiac from the Amazon, suma root is sometimes referred to as South American Ginseng. It's commonly used to improve mood, stimulate sexual desire, and encourage reproductive health. Research with animal models support these uses, noting it increases levels of estradiol-17beta, a powerful sex hormone essential to reproductive health and balanced hormone levels. ^[9]

9. Tongkat Ali

Tongkat ali is consistently referred to as as the greatest natural aphrodisiac known to man. Used in Malaysia by women to stimulate libido and increase the sensitivity of erogenous zones, Tongkat root also supports energy levels, cognitive function, and creates positive responses to stress. Researchers have found it increases testosterone levels and promotes hormonal balance. ^[10] ^[11]

10. Tribulus terrestris

Popular in both Chinese and Indian cultures, this plant has a long-held reputation as an aphrodisiac. It may stimulate androgen receptors in the brain and encourage the body to use hormones more efficiently. Women who use the herb experience increased arousal, better sexual performance, and improved reproductive system health. ^[12]

A Final Thought

For many women, hormonal imbalance may be the reason for lost libido, fatigue, and sexual disinterest. Restoring hormonal balance may lead to the return of a natural confidence, positive outlook, improved sex drive, and satisfaction. When considering a hormonal-supportive supplement, always check with your healthcare practitioner, especially if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Additionally, always validate the quality of your supplement source. Many herbal supplements on the market use fillers or low-quality ingredients with reduced effectiveness.

Have you tried any of these herbs, or maybe some combination? How did they work? Share your stories here!

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM