Endometriosis is a condition in which the tissue for the endometrium (the lining of a woman’s uterus) migrates and implants itself on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterine ligaments, bladder and the area between the vagina and the rectum. This misplaced tissue bleeds in a manner similar to the uterine cells inside the uterus during the menstrual cycle and causes pain and discomfort.
This condition is a result of hormonal imbalance, where there is either over production of estrogen, under production of progesterone, or untimely breakdown of active estrogen by the liver. Below are eight natural ways to ease symptoms of endometriosis.
1. Diet
A healthy diet is helpful not only in treating endometriosis, but also for overall health; poor food choices can worsen the symptoms associated with this disease. Experts recommend staying away from refined carbs, gluten, red and processed meat and non-organic and high-fat dairy products as they contain chemicals such as dioxin and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which can worsen endometriosis symptoms. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is recommended, especially those rich in flavones (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, parsley, celery) as they can support hormonal balance by balancing the metabolism of estrogen. Flaxseeds, which are high in fiber, and lignans are also beneficial in estrogen-related conditions.
2. Natural Remedies
Herbal medicine can be useful to relieve pain, heavy bleeding and scarring associated with endometriosis. Herbs such as goldenseal, valerian, St John’s wort, peppermint, uva ursi, dandelion and wild yam are shown to alleviate endometriosis symptoms and bring back the hormone levels. You can buy these herbs here. Milk thistle is also recommended by herbalists as it improves liver function and regulates estrogen breakdown.
3. Yoga
Yoga stimulates the production and release of endorphins, which alleviate pain and reduce stress. Poses such as the thunderbolt, hero, locust, cobra, bridge and camel work on the abdomen, particularly the pelvic area, by improving the circulation in the reproductive organs, thus providing relief from symptoms.
4. Acupuncture
This ancient Chinese practice focuses on restoring the balance and flow of energy in the body to bring relief. Acupuncture can trigger certain points in the body to stimulate the production of endorphins, which are important in pain management.
5. Aromatherapy
Essential oils, when combined with a carrier oil, serve as an effective remedy for endometriosis. The oils get absorbed in the body rapidly through the skin and can reduce stress and pain. Oils beneficial in endometriosis include sage, fennel, evening primrose, geranium, rose and lavender. These oils can also help with insomnia and digestive discomfort.
Endometriosis can be treated with a diet change combined with holistic and natural approaches. If you suffer from it, work on these five remedies for long-term relief.
