The endometriosis occurs by growth of menstrual tissue outside the uterus, resulting in mild to severe pain located mainly in the abdomen, the lumbar region, rectal, legs, and pelvis.
Natural remedies for endometriosis
This disease can alter the quality of life of women who suffer from it, affecting their relationships as a couple, family, work and also reproduction. 25 percent of infertile women suffer from this disease and many take years to be diagnosed.
1) Reduce the intake of chemicals
Although the results of previous studies in women were contradictory, there is increasing evidence that chronic exposure to environmental chemical dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is associated with a higher prevalence and severity of endometriosis. One way to reduce these substances is to reduce the amount of animal fat ingested, especially high-fat dairy, red meat and fish. Dioxins and PCBs accumulate in animal fat, and that is our main route of exposure.
2) Flax seeds and vegetables
There is evidence that a group of plant chemicals called flavones can inhibit aromatase, the enzyme that converts androgens into estrogens. Celery and parsley are good sources of flavones. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts and bok choy contain compounds called indoles, which seem to improve the metabolism of estrogen. Flax seeds are rich in lignans and fiber, which have been found to be beneficial for estrogen-related diseases.
3) Progesterone cream
Occasionally, alternative professionals recommend using a progesterone cream. It is believed that progesterone slows the growth of abnormal endometrial tissue. Although it is not considered a cure, it can improve symptoms, such as pain during menstrual periods and pelvic pain. However, there has not been any study on the application of progesterone cream for endometriosis, so nothing is known with certainty about its effectiveness or safety. The natural progesterone cream is applied to the wrists, the inner side of the arms and thighs, or the upper part of the chest, and the schedule of application that should be recommended by a professional. It is important that there is monitoring and that progesterone levels are monitored through laboratory tests, because too much progesterone can cause side effects such as mood swings, depression, fluid retention, weight gain and absent or abnormal menstrual bleeding. The natural progesterone cream is available in health food stores and pharmacies.
4) Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish such as salmon, mackerel, sardines and anchovies. They are also available in fish oil capsules; This could be the preferred form of administration, since the best brands contain minimal amounts of PCBs and dioxins.
Several studies have discovered that omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial for people with endometriosis. For example, an animal-based study at the University of Western Ontario found that fish oil containing two specific compounds, EPA and DHA, can be relieved by decreasing the levels of an inflammatory chemical called prostaglandin E2. The researchers also discovered that the oil could slow the growth of endometrial tissue.
5) Stress reduction
Cortisol is a hormone involved in the stress response, but it is also necessary to manufacture other hormones such as progesterone. Prolonged stress can lead to an increase in cortisol levels, something that alternative doctors say can decrease progesterone and lead to a hormonal imbalance. A study involving 49 women, found that cortisol levels were significantly higher in women with advanced endometriosis, compared to women who did not suffer from this disease. The herbs and nutrients that alternative doctors commonly recommend to reduce stress include:
• Ashwaghandha
• Vitamins B
• Vitamin C
• Zinc
• Magnesium
Other methods of stress reduction include:
• Relaxation response
• Mindfulness meditation
• Diaphragmatic breathing
6) Hydrotherapy
Alternative doctors often recommend a contrast seat bath for endometriosis. It is a home remedy and has not been studied. A contrast seat sitting in a small bowl full of water for three minutes, then getting up and sitting in another bowl full of cold water for a minute. Repeat the hot water and cold water cycle after 3 times. It is not usually done during menstruation.
7) Ginger tea
Ginger tea can be relieved nausea that may occur with endometriosis.
