Although there is no cure for endometriosis, treatments can help manage the symptoms. Traditional treatments include pain medication, hormone therapy and medications that block the production of estrogen. If you’re looking for alternative treatments, certain herbs may be effective in treating the condition.
Some of the more commonly used herbs to treat endometriosis include:
· Curcurmin is the active ingredient in turmeric, curcurmin has anti-inflammatory properties and may be able to reduce estradiol production. A study in 2015 suggested that the remedy could suppress tissue migration of the lining of the uterus.
· Chamomille has long been known to reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Chamomille tea can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of endometriosis. Chrysin, a compound found in chamomille, has been shown to suppress the growth of endometrial cells.
· Peppermint, which is often used by pregnant women to reduce nausea, also has antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that it can be effective in reducing pelvic pain from the condition and from menstrual cramps.
· Lavender helps women reduce the pain of menstrual cramps even in small, diluted doses. Lavender oil massage is effective in decreasing the pain of periods and of endometriosis flare ups.
· Ginger can reduce menstruation-related pain and may have a similar impact on endometrial pain.
· Ashwaganda can help reduce stress-related hormones such as cortisol, which is found in higher levels among women with endometriosis. By reducing cortisol, Ashwaganda can be effective in reducing the pain of endometriosis.
There are a few people who tout the benefits of diet in treating endometriosis. Of course, I am not a doctor. This article is not meant to take the place of medical advice. It’s just information. I would encourage you to bring anything of interest to your doctor’s attention and see what he/she says BEFORE you change your eating plan or add herbs to your regimen.
What does the endometriosis diet look like?
· Increase in intake of Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce lesions and inflammation
· Reduce trans fats because women who consume more trans fats are nearly 50% more likely to have endometrial pain
· Increase intake of antioxidants which can reduce the chronic pelvic pain that often goes hand in hand with endometriosis
· Try an anti-inflammatory diet because it can help alleviate endometriosis symptoms
· Avoid sugar and processed foods. Whole fruits and vegetables are best for most of us but especially for women with endometriosis.
More traditional treatments of endometriosis include medication and surgery. Medications may include NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen to reduce inflammation or hormone therapy. Surgery may be used to remove endometriosis growths and, in some cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries).
No matter which route you go, please know that endometriosis is a difficult condition to manage but there are measures to provide you with some relief. I wish that there were more and that women didn’t have to struggle with these types of conditions, but – that is not to be.
Please stay tuned to this blog for more information on women’s health and hormones among other things. If you wish to work with me, please send me an email at dcgoodson@gmail.com. I offer a 60-minute complimentary session to anyone looking to work with me.
Deanna Goodson 