Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age. Characterised by enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges, PCOS can cause irregular menstrual periods, excess androgen levels, ovarian dysfunction and fertility issues. While lifestyle modifications and medication are conventional treatment options, many women are turning towards natural remedies to better manage their PCOS symptoms.
Dietary Changes Can Reduce Inflammation
One of the key aspects of managing PCOS is reducing inflammation in the body. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods like vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, legumes and nuts can help alleviate PCOS symptoms over time. Processed and sugary foods should be limited or eliminated as they promote inflammation. It is also important to watch calorie and carbohydrate intake and follow a low glycemic diet to stabilise blood sugar levels and hormone balance. Regularly consuming foods high in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, sardines and flaxseeds can reduce inflammation as well. Supplementing with marine phytoplankton is another option.
Herbal Supplements Offer Additional Support
Using herbs and botanical supplements is a popular natural treatment approach for PCOS. Herbs like cinnamon, turmeric and licorice root have anti-inflammatory properties and can help balance blood sugar levels and reduce androgen levels when taken consistently. Supplementing with inositol, a vitamin B derivative, has also shown benefits for PCOS by improving insulin sensitivity, ovulation and fertility. Spearmint leaf capsules can help relieve symptoms of excess androgens like excess hair growth and acne. Supplements should always be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Lifestyle Changes Improve Whole Body Health
Making adjustments to daily lifestyle habits is integral to effectively managing PCOS. Engaging in regular exercise like strength training and cardio a few times per week can significantly reduce androgen levels, body weight, blood sugar regulation and reduce stress and anxiety over time. It is important for women with PCOS to manage stress through yoga, meditation, deep breathing or other relaxation techniques. Improving sleep hygiene by establishing a consistent sleep-wake cycle also bolsters whole body health and hormone balance. Limiting alcohol, caffeine and quitting smoking is equally important for reducing inflammation.
Acupuncture Provides Holistic Relief
Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that uses thin needles inserted into specific points on the body to relieve pain, reduce stress and restore balance along energy meridians. When used to treat PCOS, acupuncture has been shown to improve conditions like menstrual irregularities, excessive hair growth, infertility and depression or mood changes. Treatment aims to harmonize the flow of chi or life force energy through the body. Integrating acupuncture with lifestyle and dietary therapy often provides the most well-rounded relief from PCOS symptoms.
Consider Herbal Medicine For Gentle Healing
Herbal medicine focuses on using various extracts from plants and herbs to treat health conditions. Several herbal formulas have been used traditionally and in clinical research studies to address multiple aspects of PCOS. Herbal formulas like Licorice and Lycium Combination, a Chinese herbal blend, have demonstrated benefits like reduced androgen levels, improved menstrual regularity and potential fertility enhancement. Supplementing with herbal extracts of Vitex agnus castus (chasteberry) can lessen premenstrual and menstrual irregularity. Combining herbal medicine with other diet and lifestyle interventions provides gentle whole body support for hormone balancing in PCOS.
Manage Emotional Well-being With Mind-Body Therapies
The emotional aspects of living with a chronic condition like PCOS often impact physical health as well. Incorporating mind-body medicine modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), journaling, music therapy, art therapy, emotional freedom technique (EFT) tapping and support groups empower women to better cope with PCOS from all angles. CBT in particular aims to challenge negative thought patterns and teach coping strategies to reduce stress levels. Managing mood and processing difficult feelings through creative expression or with peers who understand fosters well-rounded healing for PCOS symptoms and quality of life long-term.
In conclusion, combining both conventional and natural treatment approaches offers women with PCOS the best chance for wellness success in managing their symptoms. Making healthy lifestyle changes, minding the diet and tapping the powers of herbal medicine and mind-body therapies can significantly reduce PCOS burden when incorporated alongside medical supervision over time. Addressing all root causes through diet, exercise, herbals, lifestyle and emotional support provides the most complete care and healing potential
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile
