Herbal medicine has been used worldwide for thousands of years. While the herbs listed in this article have been tested and proven effective in dealing with heavy bleeding (especially , also known as menorrhagia), you should consult a physician or pharmacist before administering home treatment. Medical history details (for example, certain vitamin deficiencies or current medications) may prove adverse reactions with some herbs. These herbs can also alleviate other menstrual afflictions, such as PMS and cramps.
Common Herb Aides
The astringent quality of nettle helps slow bleeding. Use the herb as a decoction, ointment or soup. Nettle is an excellent tonic because of its high iron content.
The root bark and oil from cotton seeds can help alleviate heavy menstruation. However, do not use cotton seeds during pregnancy. Use under professional supervision.
Use lemon balm for menstrual irregularities, including heavy menstruation. The herb most often comes as capsules or dry extracts to be taken alone orally or prepared as tea.
More Herbs
Take beth root internally for prolonged and heavy menstruation. However, use caution, as the herb may induce labor, and you shouldn't take it while pregnant.
Although the English use greater burnet as an ingredient in beer, Chinese medicine has found that it is useful in the cessation of bleeding. The Latin name, sanguisorba officinalis, actually implies this ability ("sanguis" means "blood," and "sorbeo" means "I staunch"). The herb in whole form works most effectively.
American cranesbill, a perennial found in North America, is considered to be an astringent and clotting agent. However, the herb may prove dangerous or unhealthy if taken for more than a few weeks at a time, so you should consult a professional.
Cook the rehmannia root in wine (called shu di huang, according to Chinese herbal medicine), and use it to treat heavy menstruation and other blood deficiency issues. The recommendation is to simmer 15 grams of the root in 500 milliliters of red wine for 20 minutes. Take no more than 100 milliliters daily.
Shepherd's purse generally is tolerated well by the body and is a proven remedy for arresting heavy bleeding (including nosebleeds or urinary bleeding). Don't take this herb while pregnant.
The flowering tops of white deadnettle are used not only to treat heavy menstruation, but menstrual pains, intermenstrual bleeding and vaginal discharge as well.
Iron Deficiency
An iron deficiency may be the cause of abnormally excessive menstruation, according to PeaceHealth.org. Therefore, an iron supplement (either tablets or natural foods) may help the problem. You could look for foods with high iron contents or visit the local pharmacy and purchase bottled iron tablets.
Vitamins
According to PeaceHealth.org, iron as well as Vitamins A, E and C may aid those with menorrhagia and help relax the body during the menstrual cycle.
Vitamin A plays a vital role in reproductive development, as well as bone growth and eyesight. An increase of this vitamin in your diet may help with heavy menstruation, as well as other menstrual problems.
Vitamin E is involved with the immune system as an antioxidant and also has the power to dilate blood cells and perhaps reduce bleeding.
Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron, so in combination with an iron supplement, may be an effective solution for excessive menstrual bleeding. Vitamin C is readily available in many food products and also helps with other basic growth functions.
Where to Find the Herbs/Vitamins
You can find all the vitamin supplements at www.GNC.com. Local grocers like Whole Foods or a Super WalMart probably carry these supplements as well.
GNC does carry nettle capsules, but the rest of the herbs might be a little more difficult to find. You could ask your local acupuncturist or dietitian for herbalist recommendations. You could also visit the United States National Organic Program's website at apps.ams.usda.gov/FarmersMarkets to find a local farmer's market that might carry herbs.
Another option may be the Penn Herb Company, located in Philadelphia. Visit its website at pennherb.com/products.html for a complete product list.
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