Menopause can be a life-affirming journey of self-discovery and a portal to a greater sense of empowerment — a journey where stress management and hormonal balance intersect to guide you through the transformative landscape of this phase of life. Let’s delve into the complex relationship between stress, hormones, and well-being, exploring practical strategies to navigate this transition with balance, resilience, and vitality.
Understanding the Hormonal Landscape
Before we begin, let’s take a moment to understand the intricate dance of hormones that orchestrate the menopausal experience. At the heart of this hormonal symphony is a hierarchy of master hormones such as cortisol and insulin, which play pivotal roles in regulating metabolism, energy balance, and stress response. In addition to these master hormones, there are minor, reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone that also influence our health and well-being, albeit to a lesser extent.
The Impact of Stress on Hormonal Balance
Stress, often described as the “silent saboteur,” exerts a profound influence on our hormonal equilibrium, disrupting the delicate balance of cortisol, insulin, and reproductive hormones. When we experience chronic stress, our bodies respond by releasing excess cortisol, which can lead to insulin resistance, blood sugar dysregulation, and weight gain, as well as many other symptoms. Additionally, heightened cortisol levels can cause or increase inflammation, exacerbating the many symptoms commonly associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and joint pain.
Reframing Stress
In our fast-paced society, stress has become synonymous with negativity—a relentless force that drains our vitality and erodes our resilience. However, by reframing our perception of stress, we can reclaim our power and transform it into a catalyst for growth and self-discovery. Instead of viewing stress as an adversary to be avoided, we can embrace it as a messenger—a signal from our bodies urging us to pause, reflect, and realign with our inner wisdom.
Strategies for Stress Management
As we navigate the menopausal journey, it’s essential to cultivate a toolkit of stress reduction and stress management strategies to support hormonal balance and well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate stress with better resilience and more confidence:
Mindfulness Meditation: Cultivate mindfulness through meditation, deep breathing, and body awareness practices to anchor yourself in the present moment and alleviate stress.
Natural Movement: Engage in gentle, restorative practices that are natural for our bodies such as belly dance, yoga, Tai Chi, or Qigong to promote relaxation, flexibility, and emotional balance.
Nature Therapy: Immerse yourself in nature and connect with the healing power of the natural world to reduce stress, boost mood, and foster a sense of peace and harmony.
Journaling and Reflection: Explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences through journaling, creative expression, or meaningful conversations to gain insights and cultivate self-awareness.
Support and Guidance: Seek support from friends, family, health practitioners or support groups to share your journey, express your feelings, and receive encouragement, mentorship and validation.
Holistic Healing Modalities: Explore natural healing modalities such as holistic nutrition, herbal therapies, acupuncture, massage therapy, and energy healing to restore balance and harmony to your mind, body, and spirit.
Embracing Hormonal Harmony
Stress levels and hormonal balance are intrinsically linked, shaping our experience of menopause and influencing our overall well-being. As we integrate these stress reduction strategies into our lives, our symptoms will be reduced and our health will be strengthened while we create a fertile ground for hormonal harmony to flourish. Utilizing these practices reduces cortisol, creating a greater balance between the master hormones, which in turn influences equilibrium in the minor reproductive hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone. By addressing stress as a catalyst for growth and self-discovery, we can cultivate resilience, vitality, and serenity in the face of life’s challenges.
As you embark on your journey of self-care and self-discovery, remember to nurture yourself with kindness, compassion, and grace, honoring the wisdom of your body and embracing the fullness of life during menopause. By prioritizing self-love, self-nurturing, and self-compassion, we connect with our bodies more deeply and navigate the menopausal journey with resilience, vitality, and empowerment.
If you would like support navigating menopause naturally, let’s chat!
“My body doesn’t respond to exercise the way it used to…”
“It seems like the more I exercise and diet, the more weight I gain!”
These are common frustrations I hear from women as they approach their 40s, 50s, and 60s. It seems harder and harder to maintain a healthy weight during this phase of life, so women begin to exercise harder, exercise longer, and exercise more intensely. They may decide to restrict their caloric intake or return to a strict diet they might have tried in the past.
The result?
More challenges with weight and metabolism, and additionally, perhaps new symptoms such as lack of energy, brain fog, or insomnia.
What’s going on?
Well, to get a better understanding of why this happens and what to do instead, we need to look at a few key points.
We need to tailor our movement to our life stage
Firstly, as women transition through the various stages of menopause, our bodies undergo significant transformations. As our hormones shift and change, our bodies’ unique needs change and our movement routines need to change along with them.
Recent studies have underscored the importance of adapting exercise routines to align with the unique needs of women in perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. For example, research published in the “Journal of Women’s Health” (2018) highlights the evolving exercise needs of women as they transition through menopause, which demonstrates that traditional exercise routines may not fully address the specific physical changes and challenges women face during this phase.
In addition, recent findings in the “International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching” (2022) reveal that intense exercise regimens, such as aerobics and running, can pose risks to women in the menopausal stage. High-impact activities may lead to excess stress on the body, including joint and bone stress, exacerbating the physical challenges already associated with menopause.
One of the critical reasons we need to change up our movement routines is that as our reproductive hormones decline, we become more sensitive to stress.
And, we often have many sources of stress in our lives during midlife! Excess stress raises cortisol levels.
And elevated cortisol levels cause imbalances in our endocrine system.
Why is this important to know?
Because during this life phase, hardcore aerobic exercise causes excess stress to our bodies! And, that in turn, triggers fat storage as a survival mechanism, which can completely derail our efforts to maintain a weight that feels good to us.
Our bodies have different needs
Secondly, we need to ask why we don’t hear this information more often. Why are we told to exercise more and eat less? Well, the reason is simple. Most scientific research is done on males in their 20s and 30s. According to Debra Atkinson, MS, CSCS, only 39% of all exercise and sports medicine research features women. A fraction of that features women in peri-menopause, menopause, and post-menopause.
We are not male and we are not in our 20s and 30s anymore. Our bodies do not respond the same way a male body responds. Our bodies do not have the same requirements as a male body in their 20s or 30s.
Women go through many natural hormonal phases throughout their lifetime, which men do not, and recent research has illuminated the distinct exercise needs of women as they journey through peri-mid-post-menopause.
Movements for midlife women
So what types of movement do we require at this time? These stages of life come with evolving physical requirements, particularly a call for gentle, flexibility-enhancing movements and strength training or weight-bearing exercises.
According to Dr. Joel Furhman, “Resistance training is the only exercise that can boost metabolism without increasing aging.”
Resistance training, also called strength training or weight-bearing exercise, utilizes the resistance of body weight. In this context, natural forms of movement such as belly dance, yoga, tai chi, qi gong, and walking emerge as tailored solutions to meet these specific needs.
These natural movement practices, as well as squatting, carrying, lifting and reaching, getting up from sitting positions often, and other normal daily movements done with intention, offer precisely the kind of exercise that aligns with the distinct needs of women in these menopausal stages.
Another advantage is that these practices not only provide physical benefits but also address mental and emotional well-being:
Belly dance enhances flexibility, coordination, and balance. Its fluid, rhythmic movements improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness, making it an ideal choice for women going through menopause.
Targeted weight-bearing and resistance training exercises can improve balance and flexibility, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
Recent research showcases the stress-reducing properties of gentle natural movements such as yoga, tai chi, qigong, and belly dance. This is essential as perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause can bring increased stress and anxiety. The mindful, rhythmic movements induce a state of flow, which can be calming and meditative.
Studies also reveal that belly dance, along with yoga and similar natural movement practices, can significantly improve body image and self-esteem. It empowers women to reconnect with their femininity and sensuality, fostering self-confidence and body positivity.
We know that mindfulness and meditation are critical components of stress reduction as well as personal and spiritual development. These forms of natural movement can provide a space for women to connect with their inner selves, tap into creativity, and find a sense of grounding through tradition and history.
By embracing these practices, we can navigate the transformation of menopause with grace and vitality while honoring our changing bodies and embracing the beauty and wisdom of our bodies as mature women.
And start reducing insomnia, anxiety, and mood swings right now!
Did you know that after the age of about 35, the hormone progesterone begins to decline in women? While this is a natural and normal occurrence, if that decline occurs very quickly, or there are extreme fluctuations, we can experience a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, from insomnia to anxiety. Fortunately, there are natural ways to boost your progesterone levels, reduce your symptoms and start feeling like yourself again!
What is Progesterone?
In short, Progesterone is a hormone that plays a critical role in the female reproductive system. It helps to regulate the menstrual cycle and prepares the uterus for pregnancy. And, even in menopause, it has critical functions. It is important for helping to balance estrogen levels, mood regulation, maintaining bone density, supporting healthy sleep patterns, maintaining healthy skin by supporting collagen production and hydration, having a positive impact on libido and sexual function, and helping regulate the nervous system. Maintaining healthy and balanced levels of progesterone is essential for overall health and well-being in women of all ages.
Here is a list of the most common symptoms of low levels of progesterone:
Irregular periods
Low libido
Hot flashes
Migraines or frequent headaches
Mood swings
Depression
Anxiety
Weight gain
PMS
Infertility
Acne
Trouble sleeping
While many women believe, or are told, that there is nothing that can be done to balance our levels of progesterone, or that hormone replacement therapy is the only option, there are actually many natural ways we can boost and balance progesterone levels.
Here is a quick overview of three simple things we can do to encourage our bodies to produce more progesterone naturally.
Nutrition
One of the best places to begin is through nutrition. Increasing your intake of Vitamins C and B6, as well as the minerals Magnesium and Zinc can help to boost progesterone production naturally.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in regulating progesterone production by supporting the functioning of the adrenal glands. These glands produce progesterone alongside other hormones. Additionally, vitamin C acts as a cofactor in the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone, a precursor to progesterone. By enhancing this conversion process, vitamin C helps ensure sufficient progesterone levels in the body. Moreover, vitamin C’s antioxidant properties protect the ovaries from oxidative stress, further contributing to the maintenance of progesterone balance. Including vitamin C-rich foods or supplements in your diet can be a natural way to support healthy progesterone levels.
Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, strawberries, mango, papaya, watermelon, tomatoes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, and spinach.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, plays a significant role in regulating progesterone production through its involvement in various enzymatic reactions. It supports the synthesis of steroid hormones, including progesterone, within the ovaries. Additionally, vitamin B6 aids in the conversion of 17-hydroxyprogesterone to progesterone, a crucial step in progesterone production. By ensuring these processes function optimally, vitamin B6 helps maintain adequate progesterone levels in the body.
Including vitamin B6-rich foods like these in your diet can be a natural way to support healthy progesterone production and hormonal balance: organ meats, fish, poultry, egg yolk, dried beans, peanuts, walnuts, banana, prunes, potatoes, cauliflower, cabbage, and avocado.
Magnesium
Magnesium plays a vital role in regulating progesterone production by acting as a cofactor in various enzymatic reactions involved in hormone synthesis. It supports the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone, a precursor to progesterone, in the body. Additionally, magnesium helps to improve insulin sensitivity, which has a positive impact on hormone balance, including progesterone. By ensuring an adequate supply of magnesium, you can support the natural production of progesterone, contributing to overall hormonal health and well-being.
Foods high in magnesium include dark green vegetables, almonds, pecans, cashews, brazil nuts, seeds, legumes, brown rice, avocado, dark chocolate, and dried apricots.
Zinc
Zinc also plays a crucial role in regulating progesterone production by supporting the enzymatic processes involved in hormone synthesis. Like vitamin B6, zinc aids in the conversion of 17-hydroxyprogesterone to progesterone. Additionally, zinc helps maintain the health of the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine structure that produces progesterone during the menstrual cycle. By ensuring an adequate intake of zinc, you can support the natural production of progesterone, contributing to hormonal balance and overall reproductive health.
Including zinc-rich foods such as these in your diet can be an effective way to promote healthy progesterone levels: seafood, wheat germ, spinach, seeds, nuts, dark chocolate, beans mushrooms, and quinoa.
Alleviate Stress
Stress is at the root of hormone imbalance. Here are some ways we can boost progesterone by reducing stress.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness, the practice of being fully present and aware of the present moment, has been shown to reduce the body’s stress response. When we practice mindfulness, we activate the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the “rest and digest” mode, which counteracts the “fight or flight” response triggered by stress. By calming the nervous system, mindfulness helps lower cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone.
The reduction of cortisol is vital for boosting progesterone because cortisol and progesterone share a common precursor hormone called pregnenolone. When the body is under chronic stress, it prioritizes the production of cortisol over other hormones, including progesterone. This imbalance can lead to progesterone deficiency and can exacerbate hormonal issues.
By engaging in mindfulness practices like meditation, breathwork, or gratitude practices, we can effectively manage stress levels and promote the natural production of progesterone. Lower stress levels allow the body to allocate resources to produce progesterone, contributing to hormonal balance and overall well-being.
Nature
Being in nature has a remarkable ability to relieve stress and promote the production of progesterone. When we spend time in natural environments, such as greenspaces, forests, or by the ocean, our bodies enter a state of relaxation, reducing cortisol levels and mitigating the harmful effects of stress. Studies have shown that exposure to nature can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety levels, fostering a sense of calm and well-being.
This reduction in stress is crucial for boosting progesterone because chronic stress can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance in the body. As mentioned earlier, high cortisol levels can interfere with the production of progesterone, leading to hormonal imbalances and related symptoms.
By immersing ourselves in nature regularly, we support our body’s ability to produce adequate levels of progesterone. The soothing effects of nature positively influence the endocrine system, encouraging hormonal harmony and overall reproductive health.
Movement
Engaging in gentle movement, such as dance, yoga, or tai chi, offers a powerful way to relieve stress and promote the production of progesterone. When we practice these forms of natural movement, we activate the body’s relaxation response, which helps to reduce cortisol levels and induce a sense of calm.
By alleviating stress through gentle movement, we create a more conducive environment for the body to naturally produce progesterone.
Furthermore, gentle movement practices are often associated with improved blood circulation and enhanced overall well-being. These positive effects can contribute to the body’s ability to maintain hormonal balance, including optimal progesterone levels.
Incorporating gentle movement into our daily routine can be an effective way to support hormonal health, regulate the central nervous system, and promote overall physical and emotional well-being.
Herbal Medicine
Herbal remedies have been used throughout human history and can be potent allies in balancing progesterone naturally.
Vitex
Vitex stimulates the pituitary gland, which is a master gland that regulates sex hormone production and helps to normalize progesterone levels. Vitex is believed to work by stimulating luteinizing hormonal production and inhibiting follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which results in an elevated progesterone level and a more balanced estrogen level.
Vitex is also used for problems associated with the menstrual cycle. These include premenstrual tension, premenstrual acne, breast tenderness, constipation, fluid retention, insomnia, and migraines. It can also help with some of the psychological challenges, such as cravings, anxiety, depression, and irritability.
Green tea
A 2009 study showed that green tea can be an effective way to strengthen bone metabolism and decrease the risk of bone fractures, especially in women experiencing menopause.
Green tea is also full of antioxidants, some caffeine, and EGCG.
EGCG boosts metabolism, helping to fight the weight gain many menopausal women experience. EGCG is known to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. High levels of oxidative stress and inflammation have been linked to hormonal imbalances, including decreased progesterone levels. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, green tea can help support the proper functioning of the endocrine system, including the production and regulation of progesterone.
Additionally, some studies suggest that EGCG may directly influence certain enzymes involved in progesterone production, potentially contributing to maintaining healthy progesterone levels.
Adaptogens
Adaptogenic herbs such as Rhodiola, Maca and Ginseng are known for their potential to help the body adapt to stress and promote overall balance in the endocrine system. By reducing the harmful effects of chronic stress, these herbs contribute to hormonal harmony, including the proper functioning of the reproductive system and support for progesterone levels.
Additionally, adaptogens’ ability to enhance the body’s resilience to stress aids in reducing cortisol levels, which as we mentioned earlier is highly implicated in an imbalance in progesterone production.
Dandelion
Dandelion is a superior support herb and strengthener for the liver, which is the control center for hot flashes. Dandelion helps improve digestion, helps relieve headaches, and also helps with blood sugar regulation. Since the liver is the major organ that metabolizes, detoxes, and filters our hormones, it can become sluggish during the menopausal phase. Dandelion can play a critical role in nourishing and supporting the liver to do its job efficiently and effectively. There has also been research showing its potential in increasing progesterone levels specifically.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is not just a tasty herb, but is a potent ally for hormonal regulation. It is one of our best herbs for balancing blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity. Cinnamon contains bioactive compounds that can not only enhance insulin sensitivity but also improve glucose metabolism, promoting more stable blood sugar levels, which contribute to hormonal balance, including the production and regulation of progesterone. Recent studies have also shown that Cinnamaldehyde, a major active constituent of Cinnamon, can progesterone production directly.
Maintaining healthy progesterone levels is vital for the overall well-being of women navigating peri-mid-post menopause. By incorporating simple lifestyle changes, such as practicing mindfulness, spending time in nature, and engaging in gentle movement, women can effectively reduce stress levels and promote the body’s natural progesterone production.
Considering essential nutrients like vitamin C, B6, magnesium, zinc, and exploring the potential benefits of green tea may offer additional support. Herbal remedies like vitex, dandelion, and adaptogenic herbs have been used for thousands of years, in some cases, to support hormonal regulation.
By empowering ourselves with knowledge and embracing these natural approaches, we can take ownership of our hormonal health and step into the next chapter of our lives with vibrant health, vitality, and confidence!
If you’re experiencing hot flashes, mood swings, weight gain, low libido, brain fog, insomnia, or any of the dozens of symptoms women can experience along the journey or peri-mid-post menopause, you’re not alone. Menopause is a natural part of aging that affects every woman, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it.
Let’s explore the power of natural solutions for menopause, including increasing phytoestrogens in your diet, incorporating natural movement, and using herbal remedies to balance hormones, reduce symptoms and elevate health and well-being naturally!
Phytoestrogens
First, let’s talk about phytoestrogens. These are plant-based compounds that can balance the effects of estrogen in your body. By increasing your intake of phytoestrogens, you can help balance your hormone levels naturally. Some foods that are high in phytoestrogens include soy, flaxseeds, chickpeas, and lentils.
Natural Movement
Incorporating natural movement into your daily routine can also help balance your hormones. This means moving your body in ways that feel good and natural, such as walking, dancing, or swimming. By doing so, you can reduce stress and improve your mood, both of which are essential for hormonal balance.
Herbal Remedies
Finally, let’s talk about herbal remedies. Ashwaganda, red clover, and nettles are all herbs that can help balance your hormones during menopause.
Ashwaganda is an adaptogenic herb that helps your body adapt to stress. It has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, which is essential for reducing stress-related symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.
Red clover is one of the richest sources of phytoestrogens, which, as we learned already, can help balance your hormone levels naturally. It has been shown to help with infertility, reduce hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.
Nettles are another herb that can help balance your hormones during menopause. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium, which are important for bone health. Nettles can also help reduce inflammation and improve your immune system.
So even though menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life in which she can experience a range of symptoms, you don’t have to suffer through it. By increasing your intake of phytoestrogens, incorporating natural movement into your daily routine, and using herbal remedies such as ashwaganda, red clover, and nettles, you can help balance your hormones naturally, reduce your symptoms, and feel vibrant and empowered throughout this potent phase of life!
Common herbs like Red Clover are often overlooked as useless and pesky weeds. How many times have you weeded this pretty little plant from your garden spaces?
In organic agriculture and permaculture, Red Clover is now being viewed as an excellent cover crop to add minerals and nitrogen to the soil. However, in herbal circles, Red Clover has been praised for centuries as a highly medicinal and vital plant, especially for women and children.
Children’s Skin and Respiratory Issues
Long used throughout history for skin and respiratory conditions, Red Clover is a safe and effective option for relieving childhood eczema and whooping cough. A bevy of other conditions, such as colds, coughs, congestion, and bronchitis, as well as psoriasis, and dermatitis can be addressed with the proper use of Red Clover also. Taken as a tea, Red Clover can be a parent’s most useful go-to herb.
Fertility
Red Clover is well known for it’s fertility enhancing abilities. Herbalist Susan Weed explains that “It is especially helpful if there is scaring of the fallopian tubes, irregular menses, abnormal cells in the reproductive tract, or “unexplained” infertility….The high vitamin content of red clover blossoms, combined with the folic acid in the leaves is especially helpful to sperm and egg production and helps prevent birth defects….Red clover’s high mineral and trace mineral content helps restore and maintain good production of hormones. Its profuse and exceedingly absorbable calcium and magnesium help rejuvenate and repair the delicate tissues of reproduction….And red clover’s well-known ability to alkalinize the body may alter the vaginal pH, making it more receptive to sperm, and may create an environment more friendly to sperm throughout the woman’s reproductive area, thus increasing the chances of conception. Consistent use softens scar tissue in the fallopian tubes.”
Menopause
The Iroquois, and other traditional societies, used Red Clover infusions for ‘the change of life’. Now, we know why it works. Red Clover is rich in isoflavones, which are natural estrogens, similar to human female hormones. “Phytoestrogens perform functions in the body similar to those of natural and synthetic estrogens, relieving menopause- and menstruation-related problems and perhaps protecting against osteoporosis and cancer of the breast, colon, and prostate”, says James Duke. Scientific studies have born out the ability of Red Clover to significantly reduce hot flashes, as well as other menopausal symptoms.
Cancer
Many cultures world-wide have traditionally used Red Clover for healing and preventing a variety of cancers. New research has validated these benefits, especially in the case of breast cancer, prostate cancer and brain cancer.
Nourishing and Detoxifying
One of the reasons Red Clover is able to exert such a positive influence on such a variety of health conditions is its nutrient content. It is literally a powerhouse of nutrition. Red Clover contains a multitude of vitamins, including beta carotene, vitamins C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12, as well as minerals, such as, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, calcium, nitrogen, iron and selenium. Additionally it is a good source of plant protein. Likely due to its rich nutrient content, Red Clover is also a powerfully detoxifying plant. According to Herbalist Rosemary Gladstar, it is “one of the best detoxification herbs”.
Pleasant and mild-tasting, Red Clover can be combined with Spearmint, Peppermint, Lemon Balm or other herbs to create a delightful daily tea that will keep you and your children in good health!
Do you drink Red Clover tea? Do you have a favorite herb to combine it with?
For decades, the lowly Dandelion has been called a persistent weed. People spend hundreds and even thousands of dollars a year trying to rid their lawns and gardens of this tenacious, pesky plant.
But, what if the Dandelion was more valuable and useful than anything else that grew in your garden? It just may be…
Here are 5 reasons that you might want to not only allow your Dandelions to grow in your yard, but perhaps even cultivate a spot just for them in your garden:
Anti-Cancer Activity
Dandelion has been traditionally used for a variety of cancers and recent scientific studies have proven its efficacy in this area. Dandelion has anti-cancer activity against prostate, breast,pancreas, liver and skin cancers. Herbalist Susan Weed talks about it’s role in breast cancer: “Dandelion is a superb ally for liver and breasts. Regular use-internally before meals and externally before sleep-helps keep breasts healthy, reverses cancerous changes. Digestion is settled and strengthened a few minutes after taking a dose. Results in breast tissue are slower, taking six weeks or more to become evident.”
Nutrient Dense
Dandelion is rich in nutrients, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K1, the B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, beta-carotene and dietary fiber. It also contains zinc, copper, manganese and essential fatty acids. Whew, that’s an impressive list!
Liver Protection Activity
Liver protection is one of the uses of Dandelion that is common to many systems of traditional medicine, including TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and Western Herbalism. Dandelion has been well-known as a liver tonic for centuries. Quite a few studies have proven this in recent years, including a study done on alcoholic liver damage.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity
Due in part to its rich vitamin and mineral content, it is no surprise that Dandelion is an excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Many health conditions are the result of oxidative stress and Dandelion has proven in studies to have anti-oxidant and protective activity and to reduce markers of oxidative stress.
High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Lowering Benefits
According to Olympia Herbalist, Elise Krohn, Dandelion helps the liver to preferentially make high quality fats (HDL) over low quality fats (LDL). It is also an excellent diuretic, helping to normalize high blood pressure. This has been borne out in studies as well. Herbalist David Hoffman notes that the powerful diuretic action of Dandelion is comparable to the drug `Frusemide’, with the added benefit that Dandelion is rich in potassium – which is usually depleted by pharmaceutical diuretics.
We’ve really just skimmed the surface here, though. Dandelion is also thought to help with degenerative joint diseases and rheumatism, hormone regulation that may assist with menopausal symptoms, blood sugar regulation which may assist diabetics, as well as having antiseptic activity. With all these benefits, Dandelion has something to offer just about everyone!
Many of you may be familiar with the benefits of Evening Primrose Oil. For many years now, the seed oil of the Evening Primrose plant has been researched, studied and touted for it’s GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) content, which is a precursor of EFA’s (essential fatty acids). Most of the findings of the more than 100 studies published so far show positive results for a broad range of actions from arthritis, skin issues, and premenstrual syndrome, to a variety of inflammatory problems, cardiovascular disease, and immuno-depression.
However, what you may not know about Evening Primrose, is that the entire plant, not just the oil, is used medicinally. Native to North America, this plant has many traditional uses that go far beyond the seed oil.
Respiratory Issues
According to Kiva Rose, a Southwest Herbalist, Evening Primrose has been historically used in bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, whooping cough and similar lung ailments. It is an expectorant and very soothing to the lungs and respiratory system.
Skin Conditions
Used by traditional peoples extensively for a variety of issues from snakebite, spider bites and insect bites, to swelling, bruising and other itchy skin disorders, Evening Primrose is an excellent vulnerary. The leaves used as a poultice have even been used successfully for burns and eczema.
Women’s Herb
Studies have confirmed the abilities of the Oil of Evening Primrose to reduce hot flash frequency, severity and duration in menopausal women. However, in addition to that, the Evening Primrose plant also excels in the ability to soothe uterine and ovarian cramping. Herbalist, Kiva Rose, notes, “It is wonderful for chronic reproductive inflammation and pelvic congestion, especially when used long term.” According to Herbalpedia, A 1981 clinical study at the St. Thomas Hospital in London gave evening primrose oil to 65 women with premenstrual syndrome and 61% of the participants found their symptoms completely disappeared and another 23% felt partial relief.
Digestive Aid
Many Herbalists use Evening Primrose for digestive complaints, especially when there is an anxiety or depression related component. Herbalist, David Winston says, “This is one of the best herbs for GI-related depression.” Similarly, Herbalist, Matthew Wood, notes, “Evening Primrose vitalizes the stomach, stimulates the digestion and strengthens the nerve reflexes pertaining to the liver and spleen.”? In addition, Kiva Rose suggests that Evening Primrose is great for food based anxiety in those recovering from eating disorders.
Anti-inflammatory Action
Various studies have proven the value of Evening Primrose in benefiting inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and joint disorders. Furthermore, in 1987, the Glasgow Royal Infirmary of Scotland saw improvement in 60% of its rheumatoid arthritis patients who took a combination of evening primrose and fish oil instead of their regular drugs.
As you can see, while the oil of Evening Primrose has a multitude of medicinal uses, the herb itself is an amazingly useful and beneficial remedy in its own right.
Do you have roses in your yard? Do you enjoy their aromatic beauty? Did you know that not only is the rose beautiful, but it is also a potent medicinal plant?
For centuries, the rose has been thought of as an ornamental plant, prized for its scent and delicate beauty. A gift of roses has long symbolized love, femininity and romance.
However, the delicate nature of the soft, aromatic rose petal is balanced by the intense, protective thorns that line the stems and guard the exquisite blossoms from harm. This gives us some insight to the nature and strength of it’s medicinal qualities.
Astringent and Anti-inflammatory
Scientific studies have now born out what herbalists have known all along – Rose is an excellent anti-inflammatory remedy. Because of this action, it is soothing to sore throats, acne and rosacea, as well as burns and swelling. It’s astringent and anti-bacterial nature makes it a very effective remedy for just about any type of wound, along with GI tract infections.
Women’s Issues
Traditionally, the rose is known as a woman’s herb. It has the ability to balance the hormones, strengthen the uterus and act as an aphrodisiac. It can be used very effectively to ease menstrual cramps internally and externally. Its benefits to the skin are multi-faceted. It can not only balance the skin, but moisturize and rejuvenate it as well. It has been used effectively in anti-aging skin products for centuries.
Depression and Grief
Rose has the ability to open the heart and bring comfort and calming to those in need. It is incredibly uplifting and can be used to ease both depression and anxiety. It can be useful in any sort of emotional trauma, fear or stress.
Nutrient Rich
Containing a wide range of antioxidants, rose petals and hips are a rich source of nutrition. Rose hips not only contain so much vitamin C that in WWII they were used as a substitute to deliver Vitamin C syrup to troops in Britain, but they, along with other parts of the plant, also contain large amounts of Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, Niacin, Bioflavanoids, K, and E as well as polyphenols, pectin and bioflavanoids.
Heart Remedy
Rose is not only good for the emotional heart, but the physical heart as well. It is especially indicated in high blood pressureand/or poor circulation, and in those who experience heart palpitations and hot flashes. It also contains heart healthy pectin.
I enjoy making a variety of different medicinal remedies from the rose plant. Here is my favorite.
