Food is medicine and can be used functionally to treat or prevent certain conditions. There are powerful plants and herbs capable of maximizing hormonal balance and health. Here are some of the most well-studied herbal supplements:
VITEX AGNUS CASTUS (CHASTE TREE)
Vitex is a shrub native to the Mediterranean and Asia with a slightly spicy, acrid taste. It is one of the most potent science-backed plants for female hormonal health and it is used to treat several hormonal disturbances, including amenorrhea (an abnormal absence of menstruation), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, PMS, and even habitual miscarriage. Vitex is thought to affect levels of cycling follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone and the balance between prolactin and dopamine. Overall, it seems to increase progesterone levels helping with all the mentioned conditions. It can be found in the form of supplements or tea. I recommend consuming it at night before going to sleep.
BLACK COHOSH
Black cohosh is native to North America. This plant is a must for female hormonal health as it acts as a uterine and hormonal tonic. It is recommended especially in case of dysmenorrhea (painful period) or menopausal complaints. Black cohosh also acts as a natural antidepressant and nervine relaxant becoming really helpful in the case of PMS.
ADAPTOGENS
A group of plants and mushrooms that help the body adapt to stress, sustaining it in all its physical, chemical, and biological needs. Remember that stress is one of the leading causes of hormonal imbalances and therefore helping the body withstand stress optimally becomes essential to prevent or treat various hormonal disorders. Some of the most potent adaptogens include ashwagandha, reishi, and cordyceps.
