The other day, I had a female customer bring in her bag of
supplements. It was a rather large bag and we started to go
through each bottle and what she was using it for. We came
across one bottle that she wasn't sure why she was taking it. I
wasn't really surprised when she said she didn't know if it was
doing her any good since the bottle was an herbal formula
designed to support men's prostate health. Without mentioning
the purpose of the product, I asked why she decided to start
taking it. She said it was because her uncle said how much good
it was doing for him!
It can be difficult to wade through all the herbs that are out
there. What ones are good for what and when are they beneficial.
It becomes even more complex when we throw all the different
herbal formulas and vitamins into the mix. If you are going to
use more than one or two natural health products, it is
important that you do your own research on each product and the
individual ingredients or you consult a natural health coach
that can guide you through the process of deciding what to take
and how to take it. Of course, even if you do use the service of
a trained guide, it is wise to never let anyone be your sole
source of information. Whether herbs or drugs, be sure to have a
clear understanding of why you are taking what you are and how
it may help or hurt you.
For those that would like to learn more about the various
natural health supplements, here is a beginner's guide to herbs
for women.
Bayberry - Bayberry may be beneficial to help ease excessive
menstrual bleeding.
Black Cohosh - The estrogenic effects of black cohosh have given
it a reputation as being beneficial for hot flashes and other
pre-menopausal concerns. It may also be beneficial during
childbirth to stimulate contractions, help control hemorrhaging
and afterbirth pains. This herb should not be used except in the
last 4 to 6 weeks of pregnancy and only under the guidance of an
experienced midwife or doctor as it may cause damage to the
unborn fetus.
Blessed Thistle - This herb, similar to Milk Thistle, is
generally used to strengthen the liver. However the benefits to
women include balancing hormones, enriching breast milk,
reducing breast inflammation and unclogging milk ducts.
Blue Cohosh - Blue Cohosh stimulates uterine contractions and
relaxes muscle spasms making it beneficial during childbirth.
This herb should not be used except in the last 6 weeks of
pregnancy and only under the guidance of an experienced midwife
or doctor as it may cause damage to the unborn fetus.
Dong Quai - This Chinese herb has been used extensively in
Chinese medicine to treat female concerns. It is a general
tonic, meaning that it is good for several different female
conditions including PMS, regulation of menses and infertility.
False Unicorn - Historically, False Unicorn has been used to
stop a pending miscarriage.
Ginger - This herb is commonly used for digestive disturbances
and may be beneficial for morning sickness during pregnancy.
Maca - Beneficial for men and women, this herb has been used to
increase sexual desire.
Parsley - When it is time to wean your little one from breast
feeding, parsley can be used to dry up the breast milk.
Red Raspberry - Rich in manganese, this herb can be used to tone
and strengthen the uterus and regulate the female organs.
Extremely beneficial for teenage girls and their families during
this rollercoaster phase of emotions.
Many of these herbs have been used for centuries to support
female health. While there may not be scientific research to
support their use, they are generally considered safe when used
as directed. Due to the state of our health care system, it is
now important to begin taking on the role of being our own.
About the author:
Nicole Bandes is a Natural Health Coach whose passion is
educating individuals about natural alternatives available to
them. Nicole publishes a weekly column of
health tips.
