Days 1-5 – The Menstrual Phase Physical Changes: ƒ Both estrogen and progesterone decline prior to the onset of menses. ƒ The endometrial lining sheds. Energetic/Emotional Changes: ƒ This is a time of looking inward and letting go of past issues from the previous month. Appropriate Herbs: ƒ Ginger (Zingiber officinale) – For mild cramping, stomach distress and inflammation. ƒ Cramp Bark/Black Haw (Viburnum opulus/V. prunifolium) – For more severe cramping with a feeling of pressure or “bearing down” in the uterus. ƒ Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) – For severe cramping with radiating pain throughout the lower back and legs, especially when combined with agitation or restlessness. Days 5-12 – The Follicular Phase Physical Changes: ƒ The endometrial lining begins regrowth. ƒ The pituitary gland releases FSH (follicle stimulating hormone). ƒ Nearing the end of this phase, estrogen levels begin to raise leading to the secretion of LH (lutenizing hormone) via the pituitary. Energetic/Emotional Changes: ƒ Many women experience this as a time of renewal signaled by increasing energy and a positive outlook. Appropriate Herbs: ƒ Tonic and nutritive herbs such as Oats (Avena sativa) and Jujube (Ziziphus jujube) are indicated here to help replenish the body and support increasing activity. Days 12-16 – Ovulation Physical Changes: ƒ The Graafian follicle ruptures releasing the ovum. ƒ The egg begins to move through the fallopian tube toward the uterus. ƒ The corpus luteum (literally “grieving body” in Latin) is formed at the site of the rupture. Energetic/Emotional Changes: ƒ This is often a time of high energy and increased creativity. Our energies are focused outward. Appropriate Herbs: ƒ For women who experience mittelschmerz pain (mid-cycle pain caused by the ovum rupturing from the ovary) St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) or Skullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia) may help by nourishing and healing inflamed nerve endings. ƒ As estrogen levels peak and then begin to decline, additional B Vitamins may be indicated. Herbs rich in these include Alfalfa (Medicagao sativa), Spirulina and Oats. Days 16-28 – The Luteal Phase Physical Changes: ƒ An increase in the production of progesterone causes the endometrial lining to thicken. ƒ If fertilization does not occur, progesterone levels decline and the cycle begins anew. Energetic/Emotional Changes: ƒ We begin to withdraw our energies once again, in essence assimilating all we have experienced throughout the cycle. Appropriate Herbs: ƒ Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) – Treats feelings of tension and melancholy. ƒ Oats – A wonderful tonic throughout the cycle, at this time it helps to nourish and support the nervous system. ƒ Dandelion (Taraxacum officinalis) – As the liver is responsible for the conjugation of our hormones, support of this organ is vital. The root of the plant acts as a tonic for the liver. For those who experience water retention, the leaf is a superlative diuretic and also quite rich in nutrients. |