Here are a few herbs to help women treat several health conditions naturally.
1. Black Cohosh – Renowned and well studied as a menopause herb, black cohosh also helps ease PMS-related pain.
2. Wild Yam – A classic liver tonic, wild yam balances hormones and eases morning sickness. Seek out cultivated sources, since it’s been overharvested in the wild.
3. Motherwort – A classic women’s herb used for menopause symptoms, heart support, and painful or delayed menstruation.
4. Sage – This common garden plant helps reduce hot flashes and regulate mood swings during menopause.
5. Blue Vervain – Known in mythology and history as a sacred herb, it relieves hormone-related anxiety and restores energy.
6. Ginseng (Asian) – A famous tonic for men, ginseng is restorative and energizing for women, too, especially during menopause.
7. Schizandra – A classic sexual tonic in Chinese medicine, this plant also helps the body and brain adapt to stress.
8. Hawthorn – An all-purpose heart tonic, hawthorn strengthens the cardiac muscle and eases heartache and mild depression.
9. Dandelion – By tonifying the liver (which produces hormones), dandelion root eases a variety of women’s imbalances. Often combined with burdock and milk thistle.
10. Vitex – With a normalizing effect on women’s hormones, vitex treats conditions like menstrual irregularity, PMS, and infertility.
11. Licorice – A renowned herb, licorice balances cycles and restores energy. Avoid large quantities if you have hypertension or kidney issues, or if you take heart medicine.
12. Ginger – With warming, stomach-soothing properties, this rhizome eases menstrual cramps and morning sickness.
13. Dong Quai – Often called “female ginseng,” this traditional Chinese herb builds strong blood and tones the uterus.
14. Nettle – Rich in vitamins and minerals, nettle nourishes the reproductive system, making it a great tonic for many concerns.
15. Lady’s Mantle – Rich in tannins and nutrients, this herb can ease excess bleeding and pain, and may help support fertility.
16. Raspberry Leaf – Rich in minerals, raspberry leaf is a classic fertility and pregnancy tonic and helps treat uterine prolapse.
17. Oat Tops – The green milky tops of the oat plant nourish the reproductive and nervous systems. Substitute oatstraw if necessary.