A woman's health - The 7 best herbs

A woman's health - The 7 best herbs

Herbs are widely used by people around the world, especially those looking for alternatives or supplements to traditional medicines. While no herb will solve every health problem, research shows that certain chemicals in certain herbs can affect biological function. Herbs for women's health have been extensively researched over the past few decades, with many showing promise for improving libido, supporting energy levels and improving mood.

The Top 7 Herbs for Women's Health

Many scientists believe that certain chemicals that are isolated from plant materials and then extracted have the greatest benefit to human health. Nevertheless, the entire herb is equally effective when used in conjunction with other herbs that offer similar chemical components and/or health benefits. Here are some of the best herbs, extracted or otherwise, that have had positive effects on women's health.

1. Muira Puama

Muira Puama is also known as “potency wood,” and for good reason. A study of over 200 women found that the bark and root of Muira Puama significantly stimulated libido. Over 65% of women in the study had better sexual satisfaction and orgasm intensity. Muira Puama can also be helpful for increasing motivation for sex, supporting energy for everyday activities, and reducing stress. ((Link removed), (Link removed))

2. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an ancient Indian herb said to support female reproduction and libido. The herb has been used for centuries to combat stress in women and men alike. Ashwagandha specifically targets the endocrine system and promotes hormonal balance. A study of over 50 menopausal women examined the effects of ashwagandha supplementation and found a significant reduction in symptoms such as anxiety, hot flashes, and mood. Ashwagandha has been used for centuries to support good mood, and research shows that the plant can play an important role in combatting mental and emotional stress. This makes ashwagandha an effective remedy for mood swings. ((Link removed), (Link removed))

3. Tribulus terrestris

Tribulus terrestris is also used to support hormonal balance, and research points to its role in increasing female libido. Tribulus has a lot of research behind it to support libido in both men and women. One important study showed that Tribulus improved sexual desire in 49 out of 50 female participants. A recent 2014 study found that women's desire, arousal, and satisfaction were significantly improved after Tribulus supplementation. The herb can also combat mood swings that commonly occur during menstruation. Similar to Kava Kava, Tribulus Terrestris can positively improve mood and reduce stress and anxiety. ((Link removed), (Link removed), (Link removed))^[7]

4. Maca

Maca root is a popular herbal tool often used by men to support healthy hormone levels. However, women also report great benefits in balancing hormone levels with maca. When studying the root for its potential weight loss benefits, researchers found that women experienced significant reductions in common menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and depressive moods. Another similar study found beneficial effects of maca supplementation on menopausal symptoms. Supporting a healthy libido in women is also a benefit of using maca. A major study found that maca supplementation was effective in combating sexual dysfunction in women, particularly after taking SSRIs, a commonly prescribed antidepressant. Throughout the study, women showed an improvement in sexual satisfaction with three grams of maca per day. ((Link removed), (Link removed), (Link removed))

5. Avena Sativa

Natural aphrodisiacs have been used successfully for thousands of years, with Avena Sativa being no exception. Also referred to as “oat straw,” Avena Sativa is a powerful natural aphrodisiac. Recent research confirms its frequent use. Oats can also support bone health, which is important because osteoporosis is more common in women than men. Avena sativa is rich in calcium, a nutrient that, along with vitamin D and vitamin K, plays an important role in bone density. Oat straw increases levels of luteinizing hormone in rats, a hormone critical for stimulating cell growth. This can help initiate bone cell production and potentially support bone health. ((Link removed), (Link removed))

6. Catuaba

The Catuaba tree was first used by the Tupi Indians of northern Brazil, who brewed the leaves for an aphrodisiac tea. Traditional cultures have used catuaba bark for a variety of benefits, but its powerful aphrodisiac properties are perhaps the most popular use. Catuaba bark contains the chemical yohimbine, the active ingredient that has a stimulating effect. ((link removed))

7. Suma

Suma is usually referred to as South American ginseng and is often used to support stamina. Natives of the Amazon have searched for suma root to boost libido in women, and research supports this ancient belief. Some research also suggests that suma root may be helpful in supporting female fertility by balancing hormone levels. This is especially important today as the world becomes increasingly overwhelmed by hormone disruptors. Research shows that suma root may be helpful for promoting estradiol-17 – beta, a hormone estrogen produced in women during the reproducing years, further improving hormone balance. ((Link removed), (Link removed))

Supplement with these herbs

Herbs are an excellent addition to an overall healthy lifestyle, and as you can see above, research supports them as an effective way to support women's health. Many of the herbs mentioned above are found in women's hormonal balance and are carefully combined with other similar organic herbs that support physical drive and function. Avoiding environmental endocrine disruptors like plastics and pesticides can also be a good way to protect your hormones. Getting enough sleep, staying physically active, and getting optimal levels of sunlight are also great ways to keep hormones flowing smoothly.