Women of all ages are
prone to developing ovarian cysts. They are very common; and most
disappear on their own, causing no problems. It is thought that ovarian
cysts are the result of hormonal imbalances, especially in woman who
take fertility drugs.
If you have an ovarian cyst that is persistent and will not go away on
its own, you might want to try using one of several herbs known for
their ability to dissolve cysts and benign tumors. Consult your health
practitioner before using any unfamiliar herb.
Symptoms
Ovarian
cysts are generally small, fluid-filled sacs that grow on the outside
of the ovary. They may come and go with a woman's menstrual cycle. Most
disappear on their own and cause no symptoms at all. When a cyst grows
larger, it may begin to cause pain in the abdomen or during intercourse.
Additionally, it may bleed and press on pelvic nerves. If you
experience any of these symptoms accompanied with fever and chills, seek
emergency medical treatment.
Herbal Treatment
Herbal
practitioners use several herbs that help balance hormone levels and
can reduce the size of the cyst, helping your body shed its remains.
Herbs do not work instantly and are a much more gentle approach to
getting rid of the cyst. It can take several months for an herbal
protocol to show results.
Chasteberry
Chasteberry is a commonly prescribed to help balance estrogen and progesterone and shrink ovarian cysts and fibroids, says "The Natural Menopause
Handbook." Chasteberry should be taken first thing in the morning
after you awaken, and about one hour before breakfast for best results,
according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. They recommend
taking 20 mg to 40 mg daily. Chasteberry is not fast acting. Allow up to
three months to begin to see results. Chasteberry is considered safe
when used according to directions. It may cause mild side effects like
digestive upset, diarrhea or dry mouth.
Red Clover
Red
clover is high in phytoestrogens, plant-like substances that mimic the
action of estrogen on a the body. Red clover is known for its ability to
help balance female hormones and is often prescribed as a tea not only
for treatment of ovarian cysts,
but during various other times in a woman's menstrual cycle. Red clover
is also available as a tincture and in dried herb form. It is
considered safe when used according to directions. Consult an herbal
specialist or health practitioner for directions for your specific
needs.
Uterine Herb Tea
A
tea consisting of a variety of herbs known for their affects on female
hormones may be helpful for the treatment of an ovarian cyst. The tea
helps the uterus expel the left-over debris after using chasteberry.
Make the tea by combining 1 tsp. each of cramp bark, motherwort, burdock
root and rhizome of wild yam with 1/2 tsp. each of ginger root, mullein
leaves, cleavers leaves and prickly ash bark. Store the dried herbal
mixture in a cool dark place. Ask your health practitioner for
quantities and frequency of dosing for your specific needs. This herbal
mixture is also available in prepared capsules at health food stores.
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