Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Fran
Posted on: May 15, 2001

I am writing to you with hopes that you can guide me in the right direction. I am looking for herbs for a medicinal use to regulate menstruation and balance hormones that are "slightly" out of kilter. I have polycystic ovarian syndrome that produces too much progesterone and increases facial and body hair. I was hoping for an herbal mixture that will help to balance the hormones to promote the correction of infertility...any and all help would be most appreciated.

The cause of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is not known. There are several theories, and different treatments work for different women.

Some cases of PCOS have resolved by abstaining completely from gluten (wheat, rye, barley, oats, corn, spelt, kamut).

One theory is that the cysts hold toxins from the circulating blood, and some patients are helped by supporting the liver (Dandelion root) and the lymphatic system (Clivers) to clear toxins, and by balancing hormones (Vitex agnus-castus).

Another theory is that PCOS is caused by insulin resistance, where the body cells become resistant to insulin and the body reacts by producing more insulin. This affects the body in many ways, including changes in hormone levels. The natural approach to insulin resistance is:

- a low carbohydrate diet. i.e. limit the intake of all grains and sugars. All food made with refined grains or any sugar should be eliminated from the diet. Include one or two servings a day of whole grains.

- The diet should be very high in fresh vegetables, especially raw vegetables, with some fresh fruit.

- daily resistance exercise i.e. exercise that makes the muscles work, such as walking up hill, cycling or weight training exercises

- add foods high in omega-3 fatty acids to the diet i.e. fish and flax seeds

- include soy beans or tofu in he diet

- take a good quality multivitamin daily: ask at a health food store for a good brand.

- include daily relaxation exercises in your routine, for example, meditation or yoga.

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