Women of all ages can suffer from hormonal imbalances and be hit with a number of unpleasant symptoms including low energy, loss of concentration and mood swings. Unfortunately, hormonal imbalance is normal in women because the level of estrogen and progesterone they produce decreases as they get older. Synthetic hormone supplements for women are common but a number of studies have shown that they actually increase the risk of developing heart conditions or cancer. Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is known to be a far superior option but there are also a host of natural supplements that can be taken for hormone imbalance.
Soy Products
Any hormone supplement containing soy is worth a look since it provides plant estrogens that mimic the creation of estrogen in the body. Additionally, these plant estrogens can provide antioxidants which could potentially reduce the risk of cancer by protecting the body’s tissues and cells. Although soy products are not regulated as pharmaceutical drugs in the US, they are developed as health supplements.
Macafem
This is now a marketed supplement that uses the South American vegetable known as macafem. Its popularity is interesting since there is a lack of studies to support claims that it can balance all the body’s hormones. Nonetheless, you will find macafem hormone supplements readily available in health stores.
Dong Quai
This is also known as angelica and originated in China. It has been used in Asian cultures for many years as a treatment for an array of hormonal conditions in women including menopause and dysmenorrhea. Dong Quai has the ability to reduce menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and could mimic estrogen. You can either purchase Dong Quai in marketed products or use its leaves by seeping them in hot water and drinking it as you would tea.
Evening Primrose Oil
This is another commonly available supplement that purports to help deal with hormonal imbalance issues but once again, there seems to be a lack of scientific evidence to back up these claims. The Evening Primrose Oil is extracted from seeds and injected in gel capsules for easy consumption.
Black Cohosh
Many generations of Native American Indians used this member of the buttercup plant to combat hormonal imbalance. A study which was funded by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that black cohosh was indeed effective for certain menopausal symptoms including cramps and insomnia.
These are natural hormonal imbalance supplements worth checking out rather than spending a small fortune and risking your health with synthetic hormones. If you wish to go down the tried and trust hormone replacement route, we recommend BHRT as it is safer and more effective than its synthetic counterpart.
