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Home Remedies for Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissues that normally develop on the inside of the uterus are found outside the uterus. These tissues cause cysts that that may be found in the ovaries, uterine ligaments, fallopian tubes, colon, urethra, bladder or the vagina. In rare instances, they may also be found in the lungs and limbs. Endometriosis often runs in families. There are many natural ways to treat the condition and alleviate symptoms, but they usually need about three months to bring about noticeable improvement.

  1. Symptoms/Side Effects

    • The primary symptom of this condition is pain in various forms. Women may experience painful periods, ovulation and sexual intercourse. Pain in the lower back and pelvis is also a common symptom. The level of pain may be very mild for some women but can be intense and debilitating. Other problems include difficulty urinating, intestinal discomfort and fertility issues.

    Beneficial Herbs

    • Certain herbs and natural supplements can help alleviate endometriosis, according to the book Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th edition. Alfalfa supplies Vitamin K, which is necessary for normal clotting of menstrual blood. Dioscorea is useful in relieving pain, especially when lying down. Green tea reduces the creation of endometrial cysts. Jurubeba relieves pain and normalizes periods. Vitex increases production of progesterone and is particularly good for short periods.

    Herbs to Avoid

    • Those suffering from endometriosis should avoid cordyceps, dan shen, fennel seed, licorice and peony. These herbs may stimulate excess estrogen production, which is linked to abnormal tissue growth.

    Recommendations

    • Eat a diet that promotes lower body fat. Fat produces excess estrogen. Enrich your diet with omega-3 fatty acids. Adequate supplies of this type of fat halt production of hormones that promote inflammation and cause growth of endometrial tissue.Limit consumption of coffee and other sources of caffeine. The risk of endometriosis doubles in women who consume four or more cups of coffee a day in comparison to women who drink two cups or less daily.Use a heat source to relax cramped and painful muscles.

    Considerations

    • There are surgical options to treat endometriosis. A hysterectomy involves removing the entire uterus but will cause infertility. Laproscopy involves removal of abnormal tissue through a tube. However, neither of these solutions may permanently solve the problem because the underlying hormonal problems are still present.

      Hormonal therapies cease ovulation and hormone production. There may be numerous side effects, though, such as abnormal hair growth, nausea, vomiting, vaginal dryness and mood swings.

      Endometriosis is a non-cancerous condition, but women who have it are more likely to develop breast cancer, melanoma, lymphoma and ovarian cancer.

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