Endometriosis Symptoms: Supplements and Natural Home Remedies to Treat Endometriosis

A genetically linked disorder, the causes of endometriosis are not clearly known, however you are more likely to suffer from it if your mother or sister suffers from the disorder. Though the prevalence of endometriosis in general population is not known, studies have shown that its prevalence in infertile patients can range between 30% to 70%. A clear link between infertility and endometriosis is not very explicit, but endometriosis can impact fertility. Here are some natural supplements and home based natural remedies which have been found to treat the symptoms of the condition effectively. These home remedies are also linked with increase in fertility levels in females.

Endometriosis affects
multiple sites

What is Endometriosis?: Symptoms of Endometriosis
The fragments of the endometrium or the uterine lining migrate out of the uterus and embed in to other abdominal issues like uterine ligaments, ovaries or the peritoneum. Every month, estrogen makes the endometium thicken; accordingly, these migrated and embedded cells also expand. The uterine lining sloughs off as the menstrual period; however, these cells have no where to release the amassed blood, thus, causing cyst formation, adhesions or scarring.

Endometriosis is seen as:

• Severe menstrual cramps that reach their peak on the 2nd or 3rd day of the period.
• Heavy menstrual bleeding, with clots
• Nausea and vomiting just before the period.
• Pain during intercourse
• Diarrhea or constipation; pain while passing motion.
• Blood in stool or urine during period
• Infertility

 Endometriosis Natural Treatment: Supplements   

• Vitamin E: Vitamin E promotes healing of the tissues that are damaged by the cysts. It also prevents excessive scarring and balances the hormone production within the body. 500 I.U. everyday is the recommended dose.
• Vitamin C: vitamin C too encourages rapid healing. Doctors advocate 1000mg daily.
• Calcium and magnesium: calcium and magnesium fight painful cramps effectively. Take the supplements daily, 500 mg of calcium and 500 mg of magnesium; however, during the period, step up the dose to 2 times.

 Natural Remedies for Endometriosis: Home Remedies for Endometriosis

Chaste Tree can treat
Endometriosis

• Chaste tree: chaste tree is a very effective remedy for endometriosis. It corrects hormone imbalances successfully and manages the pain associated with endometriosis too. Chaste tree relaxes the uterus and also tackles nausea and vomiting related to the disorder.
• Flax seed oil: flax seeds supply the body with omega 3 fatty acids, very important to have a normal menstrual cycle. Flax seeds treat menstrual cramps and discomfort very well.
• Wild yam: wild yam relaxes the uterus and banishes excruciating menstrual cramps.
• Soy: soy and its products give your body phyto estrogens or plant estrogens. Phyto estrogens are potent enough to balance the estrogen level in the body and off set the effect of human estrogen on the symptoms of endometriosis. Soy is a wonder food that eases the menstrual pain, battles cramps, helps manage nausea and vomiting and boosts stamina as well.
• Evening primrose oil: decreases the inflammatory reaction by controlling the production and release of prostaglandins, which trigger crampy pains in the abdomen.

Causes of Female Infertility: Home Remedies and Acupressure Therapy for Women to conceive naturally

Infertility affects one in six couples across the United States. As per studies, consumption of caffeine is associated with decrease in fertility. Twenty percent of adult American consume more than 300 mg of caffeine each day and are at a higher risk of infertility. A host of other factors affect fertility and simple home remedies have been found to be effective in improving fertility and help conceive naturally.

Female Infertility Causes

Female infertility can be classified in two basic categories of causes,

Pelvic disease interferes
with conception

• Problems related to Ovulation: Hormonal imbalance, ovarian cysts or tumors, irregular menstrual cycle, overweight, stress of abuse of alcohol or drugs, etc may result in ovulation disorders which may act as primary cause of female infertility
• Pelvic and female reproductive system disorder: Pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine polyps, endometriosis, blockage of fallopian tubes, scarring and adhesions, etc can interfere with the ability of the ovum to travel from the ovaries to the uterus or interfere with the ability of the embryo to implant on the uterine wall and result in infertility.

 Acupressure therapy for women to conceive naturally:

 Massage therapy has been believed to help in natural conception. Many have claimed that massage therapy can actually enhance the success rate of in-vitro fertilization procedures by promoting embryo implantation. Massage therapy has several benefits which include regularizing menstrual cycles and ovulation, increasing production of cervical mucus, boosting fertility and treating endometriosis and uterine fibroids. The following are some of the massage techniques that have been found beneficial,

  

• Massage points located at a distance of three centimeters on the anterior midline at the level of the 2nd sacral bone. Massage this point regularly for about three to four minutes
• Massaging the point located on the medial portion of the leg, three centimeters from the medial malleolus, towards the base of the tibia
• Massage the point located on the anterior part of the leg, two centimeters above the tendo-achilles

 Home Remedies to treat infertility among women

There are certain herbs and home remedies that can help in natural conception among women,

Black Cohosh effective
in normalizing menstural cycle

• Evening Primrose oil and flax seed oils contains Omega 3 fatty acids which can enhance ovulation, reduce uterine constrictions and also reduce stress levels in females and thereby regulate hormonal imbalances
• Black Cohosh has anti-spasmodic properties which help in normal menstruation and aids the implantation of the embryo on the uterine walls
• Red Raspberry leaves help in normalizing menstrual cycles and strengthens the inner lining of the uterus and thereby assists in implantation. Boil the leaves of Red raspberry in warm water and consume it during the menstrual cycle. Discontinue their use after conception. 

Treating Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding Naturally: Foods for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

As per a research study published in the Human Reproduction Update, mean menstrual blood loss is approximately 30 ml, with a maximum of 60 ml. Blood loss of more than 60 ml, during the menstrual cycle or otherwise increasing the possibility of developing iron deficiency anemia in females. The study indicates that approximately 10-30% of females are prone to abnormal menstrual bleeding at some point in their life.

Abnormal uterine or menstrual bleeding refers to any bleeding from the vagina, other than the normal menstrual period. Occasionally, heavy menstrual bleeding or menorrhagia is also considered to be a part of abnormal uterine bleeding, even if the bleeding is the part of the menstrual cycle

Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding Causes: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Abnormal uterine bleeding is stressful

There are a wide range of factors that are responsible for abnormal uterine bleeding. Though the contribution of each of this factor may vary, their effective management plays a crucial role in treating the condition.

• Fibroids and polyps are responsible for abnormal bleeding. Often symptoms like pressure and pain can be experienced if the fibroids or polyps are too large in size.
• Endometriosis
• Hormonal disturbances including thyroid disorders or ovarian disorders increase the risk of developing abnormal uterine bleeding
• Perimenopause or Menopause
• Spontaneous abortion is also a common feature associated with the condition
• Occasionally abnormal bleeding can occur in absence of any organic cause and is referred to as dysfunctional uterine bleeding.
• Cervical or uterine cancer can also result in abnormal uterine bleeding

Homeopathy for Abnormal Uterine Bleeding: Treating Menstural Irregularities Naturally

Certain homeopathic drugs have been found to be highly effective in the management of abnormal menstrual bleeding, especially which don’t have an organic cause.

•  Sepia is a homeopathic drug which is prepared from the brown pigment in the ink sac of the cuttlefish. This homeopathic remedy is considered effective against venous congestion which is often responsible for passive bleeding. Further, the drug is believed to strengthen the uterine muscles and tissue and prevent dysfunctional uterine bleeding
• Arnica Montana is another homeopathic drug which is effective to treat abnormal uterine bleeding. Unlike sepia, which is effective for passive bleeding, attributed to congestion of the venous system and weakness of the organs, Arnica is more effective in treating active bleeding. Arnica is also helpful in alleviating the pain and discomfort associated with the bleeding.

Diet for Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding: Foods for Abnormal Bleeding Problem

Sea foods are rich in iron

1. Avoid foods high in salicylates, as salicylate is a natural blood thinner and hampers coagulation of blood. These foods include tomato, capsicum, onions, beetroots, broccoli, spinach, chilles, olives and melons.
2. Abnormal menstrual bleeding increases the risk of developing iron deficiency anemia. It is recommended to consume foods high in iron content namely sea-foods, pulses, beans, cereals, etc. Herbs like turmeric are also high in iron content. It should be noted that leafy green vegetables should be ideally avoided as they are high in salicylate content.
3. Lower levels of hemoglobin in the blood tend to affect the immunity of the individual. The diet should be rich in Vitamin C. Consume foods that are high in Vitamin C and low in salicylate which includes potato, cabbage, green beans, Brussels sprouts, lentils, bananas and golden apples. It should be noted that oranges, grapefruits, lemon, etc are high in Vitamin C but equally high in salicylate and hence should be avoided. 

Effective Natural Home Treatment for No Monthly Periods: Diet for Amenorrhea

In a study published in the Obesity journal in 2009, generalized and central obesity is frequently associated with menstrual irregularities. Amenorrhea or absence of monthly periods is considered to be one of the most common menstural irregularity which affects thousands of women. Amenorrhea is not only associated with pscyhological problems but can also be attributed to a host of other factors which include infectious disease, endometriosis, etc. Monthly cycles can be regularized using dietary measures and simple home remedies

Understanding Mensturation Cycle: Monthly Periods

Menstruation is an integral part of a female’s life especially between the age of 12 to 50 years. Menstruation or menstrual cycle refers to the discharge of blood from the vagina which occurs in cyclic pattern once each month. This bleeding through the vagina is attributed to the breakdown of endometrial tissue, during the menstural cycle was preparing for pregnancy. These monthly periods are attributed to a host of cyclic hormonal changes, namely changes in the balance between estrogen and progestrone. 

What is Amenorrhea? : Causes for No Periods


Amenorrhea is very distressing

Amenorrhea is associated with complete absence of periods. It should be noted that amenorrhea is normal during pregnancy, before puberty and after menopause but abnormal when it occurs otherwise during the reproductive age of a female.

Amenorrhea can be referred to as primary (when the female has never menstruated) or secondary (when the menstrual cycle is interrupted after previously menstruation). The causes of primary amenorrhea can be associated with congenital anomalies like absence of uterus or obstruction of the vaginal passage. The causes of secondary amenorrhea include,

• Nutritional deficiencies mainly anemia is responsible for lack of regular periods. Nutritional deficiencies can set in after a major surgical intervention or pregnancy and needs to be treated promptly
• Hormonal disturbances due to endocrinal disorders like polycystic ovarian disease,pituitary disorders, adrenal gland disorders and hyperthyroidism are also associated with amenorrhea
• Being underweight or overweight are also key factors responsible for lack of monthly periods. Attaining normal weight is crucial in management of no periods associated with abnormal body weight.
• Psychological stress and depression is also considered to be another cause of lack of normal menstrual cycles
• Endometrial damage or ectopic pregnancy can also be some of the pathological causes of amenorrhea. Conditions like endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease can often be associated with no periods, though the primary symptom in these cases is severe abdominal pain and colic.
• Menopause, which marks the end of the reproductive life of the female is also associated with absence of periods.

 Diet to Treat No periods: Treating Secondary Amenorrhea Naturally 

Dietary correction is crucial for treating amenorrhea is primarily focused at correcting the nutritional deficiency.

1. Iron deficiency anemia is most important cause of amenorrhea. Including iron rich foods like liver, sea foods, kidney beans and soy beans, green leafy vegetables like spinach, turnip, kale, broccoli, parsley, Brussels sprouts, etc.
2. Weight management is crucial in managing absence of periods. If you are overweight, avoid going for a crash diet but rather follow a more realistic diet plan, as a crash diet may further result in nutritional deficiencies which in turn can amplify the problem of amenorrhea. Avoid high fat foods including cheese, butter, hydrogenated vegetable oils, etc. Use olive oil to cook food, as it is considered beneficial in weight loss. Include foods rich in dietary fiber, to aid the process of weight loss.
3. Underweight individuals should gain healthy weight. Include healthy foods that are high in protein content but low in fats. White of the egg, low fat dairy products, legumes, cereals, pulses, fish, etc provide essential nutrients which help in weight gain in a healthy way.
4. Include calcium, Vitamin B complex and folic acid supplements in your routine, as females are prone to these deficiencies

Home Remedies for Regular Monthly Cycles: Natural Treatment for Lack of Monthly Periods

Though diet is the underlying and most effective treatment for amenorrhea, here are other simple home remedies that might be beneficial.

Saffron is beneficial in Amenorrhea

1. Half teaspoon of cinnamon mixed with a glass of warm milk (preferably cow's milk) each day is considered beneficial. Studies have shown that cinnamon plays a crucial role in weight loss as it helps burn sugar over twenty times faster. Optimum weight is crucial to ensure regular monthly cycles
2. Add a few strands of saffron to half a cup of water. Boil the water and consume it about three to four times a day. Saffron benefits in management of amenorrhea in several ways. Packed with anti-oxidants, saffron is useful in managing acute or chronic inflammatory conditions and induces sleep which helps in the management of stress. This in turn can tackle the problem of lack of monthly periods.
3. Beet root juice or fresh beet root helps in regulating the menstrual cycle and is considered highly beneficial in treatment of amenorrhea.
4. Sesame seeds, papaya, bitter gourd and ginger are known to increase the internal temperature of the body by enhancing metabolism. Elevated body temperature is associated with ovulation and hence these foods promote ovulation, which in turn can subsequently result in a normal menstrual cycle. 

Treating Hair loss in Women: Diet and Home Remedy for Fast and Thick hair growth

As per the American academy of dermatology, losing fifty to hundred hairs per day is normal. As per estimates about ninety percent of an individual’s hair are in growing phase and only ten percent of the hair are in resting phase, at any point in time. However, factors like pollution, psychological and mental stress, chemicals, faulty diet, etc interfere with the normal hair growth process and are responsible for hair loss or lifeless and scanty hair. Here are some simple dietary recommendations along with home remedies for effective hair care.

Hair loss in Women

Eight percent of hair loss in males are attributed to genetic and heredity and there is little that can be done about it. However, for females, healthy hair is a sign of beauty and hair loss can be very stressfull and traumatic experience. Some of the common factors responsible for hair loss among women include,

Hair loss in Women can be distressing

• Endocrinal disorders including thyroid disease
• Certain medications including birth control pills have been known to cause hair loss. Chemotherapy (i.e. treatment for cancer) has been commonly associated with hair loss
• Dietary insufficiencies like low iron, inadequate intake of proteins, etc are also responsible for hair loss in women. Convalescence phase after a major surgery or a major illness is also responsible for hair loss
• Fungal infection of the scalp can cause hair loss

Fortunately, most of the causes of hair loss are reversible. Dietary correction, home remedies and homeopathy can help in growth of thick and lustrous hair.

Diet for Fast Hair Growth

Dietary insufficiencies are one of the leading cause of hair damage and lifeless hair in women. Including certain foods to correct the deficiency disorders can promote normal and healthy hair growth

Milk is important for Healthy Hair

• Green leafy vegetables like lettuce and spinach, fish, poultry, cereals, sprouts, etc supply required iron to the body. Heavy menstrual bleeding is often responsible for anemia in women and inclusion of these foods in the diet can address to the deficiency of iron
• Milk and dairy products, poultry, cereals, legumes and pulses and eggs are rich in proteins, which are an essential constituent of healthy hair and promote hair growth
• Carrots, capsicum, spinach, broccoli, pumpkin, liver and fish are rich sources of Vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in ensuring a healthy scalp. Dandruff has been identified as the leading cause of hair loss and dietary intake of Vitamin A is crucial to address to the problem of dandruff and unhealthy scalp

 Home Remedy for Quick Hair Growth

Simple home remedies can promote quick hair growth by promoting blood circulation to the hair and eliminating dandruff.

• Lemon juice has potent ingredients which help fight dandruff and in turn prevent hair loss. Local application of freshly squeezed lemon juice for about fifteen minutes each day before going to bath can have beneficial results
• Regular massaging of the scalp with coconut oil and herbal application improves the circulation of blood to the scalp and promotes hair growth.
• Vinegar is an anti-septic and kills bacteria and germs. Local application of vinegar mixed with egg yolk is beneficial. Vinegar is gentle on the scalp and doesn’t cause damage to the skin, while egg yolk provides nutrients to the hair follicles, which further promote quick growth of hair
• Consuming specially prepared ‘hair drinks’ comprising of a mixture of equal portions of alfalfa, lactuca sativa and carrot have been known to prevent hair damage and promote the growth of healthy hair. 

Managing Pre-Menstrual Syndrome: Dietary Guidelines for management

What is pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS)?

Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) is a recurrent condition in women, characterized by bothersome symptoms 7 to 14 days prior to the menstruation.

Clinical manifestations of pre-menstrual syndrome

• Decreased energy levels

• Acne

• Irritability, anxiety, peevishness, depression

• Breast tenderness

• Headache, backache, abdominal discomfort

• Abdominal bloating

• Swelling of fingers and / or ankles


Causes of PMS

Changes in the hormonal profile, within the body are predominantly responsible for the occurrence of one or ore of the PMS symptoms.

• Studies state, that the estrogen levels in the body are elevated.

• And, the progesterone levels fall.

Diet and nutrition to treat pre-menstrual syndrome

• Eliminating or reducing the amount of animal products consumed will yield good results. Research states, that women on a vegetarian diet, excrete 2 – 3 times more estrogen in their feces, and have 50 % lower levels of free estrogen in their blood, as compared to women who consume large quantities of animal products.
• Women suffering from PMS, must stay away from caffeinated drinks. There is a strong link between caffeine and the psychological symptoms that occur during PMS. 
• Enhance your dietary intake of phyto-estrogens. Phyto-estrogens are compounds which exert a balancing effect on the estrogen level in the body, particularly when the estrogen level is high (as in PMS). Step up your intake of soy and its products, they are rich sources of naturally occurring phyto-estrogens.