There are many herbs that can be used to help manage the condition of PCOS. In this article, we will review PCOS and the best herbs for PCOS.
Table of Contents
PCOS Overview:
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects 5% to 20% of women in reproductive age, making it the most common hormonal disorder worldwide.
PCOS is associated with several chronic conditions such as obesity, type II diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and high blood pressure.
Some of the main symptoms of PCOS include:
- weight gain/obesity
- menstrual irregularity
- acne
- infertility
- depression
- hyperandrogenism (high levels of male sex hormones)
- excess body hair growth
- cysts on ovaries
Best Herbs for PCOS:
Below are the best herbs for PCOS supported by scientific research and various health experts.
1. Cinnamon
Cinnamon (or Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is a common spice used throughout the world, though it is also a medicinal herb, and has anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and antioxidant properties.
Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of cinnamon in managing PCOS. The plant’s role in blood sugar regulation and its anti-inflammatory actions are the main basis for these results.
A recent review of studies revealed that cinnamon can help those with PCOS manage their metabolic biomarkers. Findings revealed a significant decrease in fasting blood sugar, LDL (bad) cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, and an improvement of HDL (good) cholesterol.
Another study demonstrated similar effects of cinnamon revealing a significant decrease in overall blood sugar, cholesterol, and body weight for those with PCOS.
A clinical trial compared the effects of cinnamon, ginger, and metformin (a commonly prescribed medication for blood sugar dysregulation) on women with PCOS. Cinnamon supplementation had a similar reduction in blood sugar and testosterone levels to metformin. Ginger supplementation decreased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, which was not seen with metformin. In all three groups, weight and body weight index (BMI) significantly decreased. Researchers concluded that cinnamon and ginger supplementations may be effective alternative treatments for women with PCOS.
Summary:
Clinical studies show that cinnamon may be an effective herb for PCOS through metabolic biomarker management and blood sugar improvement.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric (or Curcuma longa) is a medicinal plant that is popular for its culinary uses throughout Asia. Turmeric is widely used for reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular and liver health.
A systematic review found that curcumin (the main component in turmeric) can help decrease BMI, levels of glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, and C-reactive protein (an inflammatory biomarker) in women with PCOS.
Research shows that curcuminoids (compounds in turmeric) can help in the treatment of PCOS by improving the corpus luteum, which is an organ that secretes hormones and plays an important role in fertility, thus improving the ovulation process.
Another review of studies revealed that curcumin can help improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels, as well as reduce inflammation in women with PCOS.
Summary:
Turmeric is thought to benefit PCOS by reducing inflammation and improving overall cardiovascular health.
3. Licorice
Licorice (or Glycyrrhiza glabra) is considered an adaptogenic herb. It is also anti-inflammatory and can help support digestion and hormonal health.
A common symptom of PCOS is hyperandrogenism, which is an excessive production of male sex hormones like testosterone. This can contribute to increased body hair growth and acne. Research has shown that licorice can reduce testosterone levels, making it a helpful treatment for PCOS.
A study demonstrated that licorice supplementation with a low-calorie diet was more effective than a low-calorie diet alone for women with PCOS. Findings showed improvements in body weight, BMI, cholesterol biomarkers, insulin levels, and overall pancreas functioning.
Licorice can be used to aid in weight loss and body composition. Research has shown that licorice can significantly reduce body fat mass, body weight, visceral fat, and LDL cholesterol levels. Since weight loss is a major factor and symptom of PCOS, supplementing with licorice may help manage PCOS.
Summary:
Research indicates that licorice may work to reduce symptoms of PCOS such as hyperandrogenism and weight gain.
4. Vitex
Vitex (Chasteberry or Vitex agnus-castus) is a medicinal herb that has been used for thousands of years and commonly used to support many women’s health conditions.
Vitex supplementation helps improve fertility in women. A study of preconception women showed that after only six months of vitex treatment, hormone levels were balanced, menstrual cycles normalized, and pregnancy occurred in over 32% of participants.
In PCOS, low levels of the hormone progesterone are often seen. This causes the body to produce more estrogen, which can lead to a major imbalance in overall hormones and even immune dysregulation.
Vitex has been shown to help the estrogen and progesterone balance by increasing the luteinizing hormone (LH), which increases progesterone production.
Dr. Aviva Romm, a women’s health expert, states that vitex should be considered for those with low progesterone associated with PCOS.
Summary:
A combination of research and traditional herbalism suggests that vitex may work to improve fertility and hormone balance.
Other Supplements for PCOS:
1. Inositol
Inositol is a type of sugar that is a major component of cells within the body. It helps with menstrual cycle regularity, metabolism of carbohydrates, and regulation of insulin.
A review of studies exhibited that inositol supplementation is an effective and safe treatment for PCOS as it works as a signaling agent for insulin within the body. Inositol can help reduce the excess production of male sex hormones while normalizing female sex hormones and menses. In addition, it can help to decrease blood sugar levels and overall BMI.
Summary:
Studies show that inositol may be a beneficial dietary supplement for those with PCOS.
2. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, which can be mainly obtained from natural sunlight. Vitamin D is important for several bodily functions including calcium regulation and reproductive health.
A higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency is observed in women with PCOS. Numerous studies reveal that vitamin D deficiency could be a major factor of metabolic syndrome in women with PCOS.
A review of studies shows that vitamin D supplementation can improve menstrual cycles, improve ovulation, and decrease testosterone levels.
Summary:
Several studies indicate that supplementing with vitamin D may benefit those with PCOS.
Common Treatment for PCOS:
The type of treatment will depend on the individual person, overall health, and the severity of the symptoms.
PCOS treatment may include some or all of the following:
- Nutrition; a change in diet
- Physical activity
- Supplementation/herbs
- Stress management
- Diabetes medication
- Laparoscopy (removal of ovarian cysts)
Conclusion:
Herbs can be a great addition to a PCOS treatment. The best course of action to address PCOS is to get properly diagnosed by a healthcare provider, and then seek care from a hormonal specialist and licensed nutritionist or dietician.
It is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before adding any new herbal or dietary supplement to your regimen, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking any medications.
