Let’s start by saying there are technically no herbs “just for women” or herbs “just for men”. Nature provides generously for all and we are eternally grateful that we can harness the powerful properties of her bountiful botanicals.
Having said that, it is a fact that nourishing herbal remedies provide effective, time-tested support throughout all cycles of a woman’s life – from puberty to pregnancy, menopause through post-menopause.
Herbally Hers
Herbalists recommend the following herbs to gently promote balance, boost female vitality, and to nurture emotional well- being:
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Ayurvedic herbal support for energy, stress, and stamina. Ashwagandha is generally included as a supportive ingredient in thyroid formulas as well as women’s libido blend.**
Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)
The legendary menopause wellness herb also provides menstrual comfort (antispasmodic to soothe cramps), promotes hormonal balance, and supports emotional well-being. **
Blessed Thistle (Cnicus benedictus)
Blessed Thistle was a well-known 17th-century remedy for female complaints. Today, it’s a popular herb to help supports breast milk production, especially in combination with Red Raspberry and Fennel. **
Chaste Tree aka Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus)
Promotes healthy menstrual cycle by supporting estrogen-progesterone balance. Chaste Tree Berries is also included in post-menopausal formulas to support hot flashes and emotional well-being.**
Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus)
Just as the name implies, yes, Cramp Bark is one of nature’s most effective herbal remedies for relaxing muscular tension as well as menstrual cramps.**
Dandelion Root (Taraxicum officinale)
The liver supports the metabolism of hormones, such as estrogen. That’s why PMS and menstrual comfort formulas will always include Dandelion and other liver-supporting herbs.**
Dong Quai aka Tang Kuei (Angelica sinensis)
All hail the “queen of women’s herbs”. Dong Quai is so-called because Chinese root encourages circulation to the pelvic area, supports reproductive health, eases menstrual cramps, supports uterine health, calms menopausal discomforts…and the list really does go and on.**
Hawthorn Berries (Crataegus oxyacantha)
Nature’s heart helper supports healthy blood flow and cardiac muscle tone – important for post-menopausal health.**
Maca (Lepidium meyenii)
The 2,000-year-old Peruvian power root is a traditional ally for women’s hormonal balance, reproductive health, and sexual well-being.**
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)
Powerful relaxant calms menopausal stress AND supports healthy heart function. Motherwort also supports a healthy cycle.**
Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Nettle leaf is loaded with vitamins, minerals, trace minerals, and a host of beneficial nutrients, including chlorophyll. Find the nutritive leaves in premenstrual bloating and rejuvenating postpartum tea blends. **
Oat Straw (Avena sativa)
Another nutritive tonic like Nettle leaf, Oat Straw is an herbal source of calcium, magnesium, silica, and other bone-supporting nutrients. Blend this mild-tasting tea with Nettle and Alfalfa for herbal hair, skin & nails formulas.**
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
The nutritious tonic provides beneficial phytoestrogens, which promote menopausal comfort and promote hormonal balance. Enjoy Red Clover Blossoms as a mild-tasting tea hot or iced.**
Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus)
Herbalists and traditional midwives alike praise Red Raspberry as a revitalizing tonic for ALL stages of a woman’s life. It promotes balance throughout the menstrual cycle, supports a healthy female reproductive system, strengthens the uterus, and eases menopause discomfort. **
Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva ursi)
Urinary tract imbalance affects millions of people but especially women. So what can you do? Consider herbal helpers such as Uva Ursi. The urinary antiseptic promotes urine flow while helping to flush and cleanse the urinary passage.**
**Caution: Consult a healthcare practitioner before using any of these herbs if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.
But Wait, There’s More…
In nature’s vast worldwide wonderland, there are many more herbal treasures to discover for feminine vitality: Blue Cohosh, Damiana, Eleuthero, Fenugreek, Licorice, Sage, Shepherd’s Purse, Yellow Dock, and Wild Yam to name just a few. Did I miss your favorite?
Women’s Wellness Resources
There are also quite a few resources where women can go and get reliable information to make decisions about herbs, supplements, and therapies for their unique needs. Some of my personal favorites are Dr. Aviva Romm, she’s an MD, midwife, and herbalist who offers great info in an easy-to-understand way sometimes with a bit of humor. Dr. Tieroana Low Dog is another medical doctor that integrates knowledge of midwifery and herbs to create an amazing resource for all women. Linda Page, a Naturopathic Doctor, herbalist, and formulator of women’s remedies is also on my list. She’s written quite a few books on fertility, menopause, fibroids, and other women’s issues. Dr. Tori Hudson, Naturopathic Physician and author of the book, Women’s Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, has been sharing practical solutions for female health for decades as well.
There are so many more resources, remedies, and wellness tips to promote female health and vitality. Please share any books, websites, podcasts, or go-to herbs you love.
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