Lesson 3: Specific herbs for the female reproductive system Flashcards
Summerise the anatomical parts and hormones of the HPO axis.
- Hypothalamus (GnRH) - Anterior Pituitary - Ovaries Hormones include: - FSH - LH - Oestradiol - Progesterone
What are Emmenagogues?
Emmenagogues are known as uterine stimulants
Emmenagogues can manage conditions with which symptoms?
- Excessive bleeding associated with poor uterine 2. Heavy menstrual flow caused by a lack of tone such as multiple pregnancies 3. Elimination of uterine tissue that may later cause a pelvic infection (after termination of pregnancy)
Name 4 herbs that have an emmenagogue action.
- Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides) 2. Squaw vine (Mitchella repens) 3. Rue (Ruta graveolens) 4. Wormwood(Artemisia spp.)
When are emmenagogues contraindicated?
During pregnancy
What are female tonics?
Female tonics tonify and restore function to female reproductive system.
When are female tonics indicated?
They are indicated for: - low libido, - reduced reproductive function, - poor ovulation, - menstrual cycle irregularities - infertility
Name 1 herb that has a female tonic action?
shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
What are Galactagogues?
Galactagogues improve not only the quantity, but also the quality of breast milk
Name 4 herbs that have a galactagogue action.
- Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) 2. Goat’s rue (Galega officinalis) 3. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus castus) 4. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
What are Uterine spasmolytics?
Slow the rate and intensity of uterine contractions. They also have an effect on the contractions of the bowel and are often used to ease pain caused by excessive muscle contraction and/or ischaemic tissue.
When are uterine spasmolytics indicated?
They are indicated in any condition that needs relief from spasm or excessive uterine activity and the prevention of early labour or miscarriage where this is associated with uterine overactivity.
Name 3 herbs that have a uterine spasmolytic action.
- Cramp bark (Viburnum opulus) 2. Black haw (Viburnum prunifolium) 3. Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa)
What are uterine tonics?
Uterine tonics assist with normal uterine functions and normalise uterine actions. They improve the quality of the endometrial lining, increase the tone of the muscular wall and improve the overall strength of the uterus
When are uterine tonics indicated?
Indicated in any condition associated with uterine pain, - for all conditions with abnormal uterine bleeding, - conditions associated with prolapses, - malposition or enlargement of the uterus, - and as a partus preparator or any condition that requires an improvement of the microenvironment of the uterus or endometrium.
How many menstrual cycles should uterine tonics be taken for?
A minimum of 6 cycles
Name 3 herbs with uterine tonic actions.
- Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa) 2. Blue Cohosh ( Caulophyllum thalictroides) 3. False Unicorn Rt (Chamaelirium luteum)
What are Phyto-oestrogens?
Plant-based oestrogens that have the ability to occupy oestrogen receptors, and elicit a weaker response to endogenous or synthetic hormones.
When are phyto-oestrogen herbs indicated?
Particularly useful in the management of menopause and can be used in oestrogen deficiency.
Name 1 phyto-opestrogen herb.
- Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
How many menstrual cycles should phyto-oestrogens be taken for?
Best used for at least 4 to 6 full menstrual cycles (if not yet post menopausal).
When are phyto-oestrogens contraindicated?
Contraindicated in known oestrogen conditions and oestrogen-dependent breast cancer.
What are hormone modulators?
Herbal medicines that can balance various hormones.
How many menstrual cycles should hormone modulators be taken for?
For 4 to 6 menstrual cycles, until the symptoms subside and the cycle is regulated, or until there is a confirmed pregnancy.
Name 4 herbs that hormone modulators.
- Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa) 2. Paeonia (Paeonia lactiflora) 3. Beth root (Trillium erectum) 4. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)
What are Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH) modulators?
- In the follicular phase the follicles in the ovary mature. - This phase, which ends with ovulation, is controlled mainly by oestrogen, which stimulates GnRH (Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone) production and the surge of LH (Luteinizing hormone) at mid-cycle. - If this proliferative phase is too short, immature ova are released. - A follicular phase that is too long (>16 days) will result in poor proliferation and maturation of the follicles, and a possible delay in ovulation.
Name 3 herbs that are FSH (Follicular Stimulating Hormone) modulators.
- False unicorn root (Chamaelirium luteum) 2. Paeonia (Paeonia lactiflora) 3. Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris)
What are FSH (Follicular Stimulating Hormone) inhibitors?
High levels of FSH may indicate menopause or declining fertility due to primary ovarian failure.
Name 1 herb that can be used as a FSH inhibitor.
- Bugleweed (Lycopus spp.) Caution: this action of Bugleweed not well detailed in phytotherapy literature. bugleweed as it has a TSH inhibitor action, and concomitant impact on hypothyroid conditions.
What are female hormone balancers?
These herbs assist in regulating menstrual flow by influencing the uterus or the length of the cycle, by affecting hormones associated with the female cycle.