Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that grow in the lining of a woman's uterus. Although these muscular tumors are not cancerous, they can cause a host of medical issues leading to infertility, painful menstrual cramping, and heavy bleeding. Some fibroids are nonthreatening and are small and hard to detect. However, as they grow larger and become more painful, surgical removal can be an option for some women. Unless a physician has encouraged surgery to remove the fibroids, many women can effectively treat uterine fibroids naturally with herbs.
Causes
Uterine fibroids can be caused by several factors. There are genetic links to a history of uterine fibroids in a person's family. However, the most common cause of fibroids is due to diet and a woman's overall health. Overweight women over 40 are particularly more susceptible to uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are also caused by higher than normal estrogen levels.
Diet
Before beginning any herb or holistic treatment for uterine fibroids, a proper diet is essential in preventing uterine fibroids. Women should reduce sodium intake, increase fiber intake, and invest in quality multivitamins high in iron to correct an iron deficiency. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential, healthy fats that promote healthy liver function responsible for decreasing uterine fibroids symptoms. Foods rich in vitamin B like whole grains, rice, and molasses can help reduce fibroids symptoms as well.
Treatment
Uterine fibroids can be removed or shrunk with surgery. Hysterectomies are only encouraged for large tumors that can cause bladder problems and painful cramping. Other options are oral contraceptives that aid in stabilizing a woman's estrogen levels. Alternative treatment options consist of herbs, acupuncture, yoga, and meditation.
Treating Uterine Fibroids with Herbal Tea and Herbal Supplements
There are several herb treatments that can treat uterine fibroids. Herbal tea such as red raspberry, chamomile, rose hip, golden seal, and chasteberry have been reported by the Herbal Encyclopedia to cleanse the liver so that it can regulate hormone levels in the body and filter out impurities in the blood.
It is highly encouraged to take herbal supplements two to three weeks prior to the onset of menstruation. Milk thistle, wild yam, black cohosh, bee pollen, dandelion root, or black haw are herbs taken in capsule form as prescribed by a holistic practitioner.
Other Herbal Remedies
Other herbal remedies that can treat uterine fibroids are castor oil, which can be digested or warmed and rubbed on abdomine to relieve cramping during menstruation from fibroids. Foods that can especially reduce painful symptoms can be organic raw vegetables, fresh fruits, lemon juice, whole grain foods, garlic, and flaxseed oil supplements. When taking herbal supplements and eating a healthier diet, limit processed foods, salt, carbonated drinks, caffeine and alcohol, and red meats.
