Herbs for hormone support: PMS, PCOS, & more

Hormones control almost everything in your body—your mood, energy levels, metabolism, skin, digestion, and even how well you sleep. But thanks to stress, processed foods, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and modern lifestyles, hormonal imbalances have become more common than ever. If you struggle with PMS, irregular cycles, PCOS, fertility issues, or menopausal symptoms, your body is likely asking for support.

Thankfully, herbs can help. For centuries, women have used plant medicine to support reproductive health, balance hormones, and ease symptoms naturally. Unlike synthetic hormone treatments, herbs work with your body, gently restoring balance instead of forcing change.

Signs of Hormonal Imbalance

Your hormones should naturally fluctuate throughout your cycle and different life stages, but when they stay out of balance, symptoms can appear:

• PMS & Menstrual Issues – Mood swings, bloating, cramps, irregular periods, acne
• PCOS & Estrogen Dominance – Cystic acne, hair loss, unwanted hair growth, weight gain
• Thyroid & Adrenal Imbalances – Fatigue, brain fog, temperature sensitivity, anxiety
• Menopause & Perimenopause – Hot flashes, night sweats, low libido, vaginal dryness

If any of these sound familiar, the good news is that your body is designed to heal when given the right support. The key is nourishing your endocrine system so your body can naturally regulate hormone production and balance itself.

The Best Herbs for Hormone Balance

For PMS & Menstrual Support
Many PMS symptoms—bloating, cramps, mood swings—are caused by inflammation, high estrogen, and low progesterone. These herbs help regulate cycles and ease symptoms:

✓ Chasteberry (Vitex) – Helps increase progesterone, balance estrogen, and regulate cycles.
✓ Dong Quai – Known as the “female ginseng,” it supports circulation and eases cramps.
✓ Ginger – Reduces inflammation and relieves painful cramps naturally.
✓ Red Raspberry Leaf – Tones the uterus, reduces heavy periods, and eases PMS.

For PCOS, Fertility & Estrogen Dominance
PCOS is often linked to insulin resistance, high androgens, and estrogen dominance. These herbs help balance estrogen, reduce excess androgens, and support metabolic health:

✓ Spearmint – Lowers excess androgens (like testosterone) that cause acne and unwanted hair growth.
✓ White Peony & Licorice Root – A powerful duo that balances estrogen and supports ovulation.
✓ Shatavari – An adaptogen that nourishes the reproductive system and supports fertility.
✓ Maca Root – Supports the endocrine system, improves energy, and helps balance hormones.

For Menopause & Perimenopause
As estrogen and progesterone naturally decline, symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings can make this transition uncomfortable. These herbs help ease the shift:

✓ Black Cohosh – Reduces hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
✓ Sage – Naturally cools the body and reduces excessive sweating.
✓ Ashwagandha – Supports adrenal health, improves sleep, and lowers cortisol (stress hormone).
✓ Schisandra – Helps with hot flashes, improves energy, and supports liver detoxification.

For Thyroid & Adrenal Support
The thyroid and adrenal glands play a huge role in hormone balance—if they’re overworked, you’ll feel exhausted, anxious, or foggy-headed. These herbs help restore balance:

✓ Rhodiola – Reduces stress and supports adrenal function.
✓ Holy Basil (Tulsi) – Lowers cortisol and improves mood.
✓ Ashwagandha – Supports the thyroid, balances stress hormones, and improves energy.
✓ Licorice Root – Supports adrenal health and helps with chronic fatigue.

How to Use Herbs for Hormone Balance

Tea & Infusions – Gentle but effective, great for red raspberry leaf, spearmint, and ginger.
Tinctures – A potent way to get herbs into your system quickly.

Lifestyle Tips for Supporting Hormonal Health

Herbs are powerful, but they work best alongside key lifestyle changes that support overall hormonal balance:

• Reduce Processed Foods – Limit refined sugars, seed oils, and artificial additives that disrupt hormones.
• Eat Nutrient-Dense Foods – Prioritize protein, healthy fats, and fiber to stabilize blood sugar and support hormone production.
• Manage Stress – Chronic stress increases cortisol, which can throw off other hormones. Adaptogens like rhodiola and tulsi can help, but reducing stressors is key.
• Get Enough Sleep – Poor sleep disrupts melatonin and cortisol, impacting reproductive and metabolic hormones. Aim for 7-9 hours per night.
• Limit Endocrine Disruptors – Avoid plastics, synthetic fragrances, and conventional beauty products that contain hormone-disrupting chemicals like parabens and phthalates.