10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Hormonal Imbalance

Herbal decoctions for hormonal imbalance are a natural remedy that combines the potency of herbs to address hormonal imbalances in the body.

By steeping herbs like chasteberry, red clover, and Dong quai in hot water, these decoctions can help regulate menstrual cycles, alleviate symptoms of menopause, and restore balance to the endocrine system.

For example, a woman who struggles with irregular periods may find relief from using a decoction made with chasteberry, leading to improved fertility and overall well-being.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for hormonal imbalance, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Angelica sinensis

Dong quai decoctions helps with hormonal imbalance because it has a regulating effect on the body's endocrine system.

The herbs present in dong quai, such as angelica sinensis and cimicifuga racemosa, have been shown to help balance the production of estrogen and progesterone hormones, which are essential for menstrual cycles and fertility.

Additionally, dong quai decoctions may also stimulate the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), promoting a healthy menstrual cycle and addressing symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica sinensis decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance.

• Ligustilide: This sesquiterpene lactone has been shown to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, helping to regulate hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
• Butylphthalide: A sesquiterpene, butylphthalide has been found to possess anti-estrogenic properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as hot flashes and mood swings, in women experiencing menopause.
• Cui-qing-chai oil: This essential oil, rich in sesquiterpenes and phenolic compounds, has been traditionally used in Chinese medicine to regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms of menstrual cramps, PMS, and other hormonal imbalances.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dong quai used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance.

• Roots: Rich in ferulic acid and other phytochemicals that help regulate hormone production.
• Stems: Contain a compound called ligustilide, which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps balance hormone levels.
• Leaves: High in antioxidants and flavonoids that help reduce oxidative stress and promote hormonal balance.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dong quai for hormonal imbalance.

1. Weigh 10-15 grams of dried angelica sinensis root to prepare herbal decoction.
2. Boil 2 liters of water in a pot for 5-7 minutes to reach desired temperature.
3. Combine the weighed angelica sinensis root with the boiling water in the pot.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to extract active compounds from the root.
5. Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain the final herbal tea.

2. Paeonia lactiflora

Chinese peony decoctions helps with hormonal imbalance because it contains bioactive compounds that can regulate and balance the body's endocrine system.

The decoction has been shown to have a regulating effect on estrogen levels, which is particularly beneficial for women experiencing menstrual irregularities, PMS symptoms, or menopausal hot flashes.

Additionally, peony root is believed to strengthen the kidneys, which are closely linked to hormonal function, thereby promoting overall hormonal balance and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paeonia lactiflora decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate hormonal imbalance by exhibiting estrogen-modulating effects, which can aid in regulating the body's hormonal balance and reduce the risk of hormone-related disorders.
• Alkaloids: Paeonia lactiflora contains various alkaloids, including paeoniflorin, which has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to mitigate the negative effects of hormonal imbalance on the body.
• Saponins: Saponins in Paeonia lactiflora decoctions have been shown to possess anti-stress and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help regulate the body's response to hormonal fluctuations, thereby promoting a balanced hormonal state.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chinese peony used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance.

• Roots: Paeonia lactiflora roots are used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance due to their high concentration of miltirone, which has estrogen-modulating properties.
• Flowers: Paeonia lactiflora flowers are used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance due to their content of isoflavones, which can help regulate estrogen levels and alleviate symptoms of menopause.
• Leaves: Paeonia lactiflora leaves are used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance due to their ability to balance and regulate hormonal fluctuations, particularly for women experiencing menstrual irregularities.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chinese peony for hormonal imbalance.

1. Harvest paeonia lactiflora roots and clean them thoroughly by rinsing with cold water.
2. Cut the cleaned roots into small pieces weighing 9 to 12 grams per 250ml water.
3. Boil the root pieces in 250ml of water for 5 to 7 minutes or until the liquid reduces by half.
4. Filter the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

3. Vitex agnus castus

Chaste tree decoctions helps with hormonal imbalance because of its ability to regulate the pituitary gland's function, which in turn affects the production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.

The herbal remedy contains flavonoids and terpenes that interact with the body's hormone receptors, promoting a balance between the two primary female hormones.

This natural approach can help alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances, including menstrual irregularities, PMS, and menopausal discomfort, allowing for a more harmonious balance of bodily functions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitex agnus castus decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance.

• Iridoids: Iridoids, specifically agnuside and aucubin, have been found to influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which is involved in regulating hormone balance and menstrual cycles.
• Phenylethanoids: Phenylethanoids, including acteoside and isoacteoside, have been shown to have a positive effect on the luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels, helping to regulate ovulation and menstrual cycles.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including vitexin and isovitexin, have antioxidant properties that may help protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to hormonal imbalance and other health issues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chaste tree used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance.

• Flowers: Vitex agnus castus flowers are commonly used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance because they contain a high concentration of flavonoids and saponins, which have been shown to have a regulating effect on hormones.
• Leaves: Vitex agnus castus leaves are used in decoctions due to their ability to balance the endocrine system and alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
• Seeds: Vitex agnus castus seeds are used in decoctions for their saponin content, which has been found to help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms of PMS.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chaste tree for hormonal imbalance.

1. Gather 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried vitex agnus castus berries and 2 cups of boiling water.
2. Steep the vitex agnus castus berries in the boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
4. Discard the solids and transfer the liquid to a glass bottle for storage.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before consumption.

4. Leonurus sibiricus

Motherwort decoctions helps with hormonal imbalance because of its ability to regulate the body's endocrine system.

The herb contains flavonoids, which have a natural affinity for binding to estrogen receptors, helping to balance estrogen levels and reduce symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances such as PMS and menopause.

Additionally, motherwort has been shown to stimulate the pituitary gland, promoting the production of hormones necessary for proper reproductive function, resulting in improved overall hormonal harmony.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Leonurus sibiricus decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have a regulating effect on the endocrine system, helping to balance hormonal imbalances, particularly those related to the thyroid and adrenal glands.
• Flavonoids: As antioxidants, flavonoids help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to hormonal imbalances and other endocrine disorders.
• Rosmarinicine: This alkaloid has been shown to have a regulating effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, helping to balance cortisol levels and alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of motherwort used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance.

• Leaves: Used for their adaptogenic and anti-stress properties.
• Flowers: Used for their estrogen-regulating and balancing effects.
• Seeds: Used for their hormonal regulating and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic motherwort for hormonal imbalance.

1. Harvest 2-3 handfuls of dried or 20-30 grams of fresh leonurus sibiricus leaves and flowers.
2. Chop the harvested material into small pieces to increase its surface area.
3. Combine the chopped material with 1 liter of boiling water to make a decoction.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with hormonal imbalance because it contains compounds that have a regulatory effect on the body's hormonal systems.

Glycyrrhizin, a key component of licorice root, has been shown to stimulate the production of progesterone and cortisol, two hormones that are crucial for maintaining a healthy balance in women. Additionally, licorice decoctions can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to hormonal imbalances.

By promoting hormone regulation and reducing inflammation, licorice decoctions may help alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance such as mood swings, hot flashes, and insomnia.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance.

• Glycyrrhizin: A triterpenoid saponin, glycyrrhizin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to regulate cortisol levels and balance adrenal function, which in turn can alleviate hormonal imbalances.
• Liquiritin: A phenolic glycoside, liquiritin exhibits anti-androgenic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce cortisol levels, alleviate symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and promote overall hormonal balance.
• Isoliquiritigenin: A lignan, isoliquiritigenin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation associated with hormonal imbalances, and may also have a direct impact on the regulation of sex hormones.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance.

• Roots: Glycyrrhizin-rich roots: The main active compound glycyrrhizin, found in the roots, helps in balancing cortisol levels and addressing hormonal imbalances.
• Leaves: Amino acids and saponins in leaves: The leaves are rich in various amino acids and saponins that contribute to the hormonal-balancing properties of decoctions made from Glycyrrhiza glabra.
• Barks: Flavonoids and phenolic acids in barks: The barks of the plant contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to its ability to regulate hormonal imbalances.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for hormonal imbalance.

1. Gather 5-10 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra root and 1 liter of water for decoction.
2. Rinse the dried root in cold water to remove impurities and debris.
3. Combine the root with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer the decoction for 10-15 minutes to extract active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

6. Paederia foetida

Skunkvine decoctions helps with hormonal imbalance because it contains bioactive compounds that interact with the body's endocrine system.

The plant's phytochemicals, particularly flavonoids and alkaloids, exhibit estrogen-like properties, which can help regulate hormonal activity. By modulating the body's hormone production and metabolism, skunkvine decoctions may alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

Additionally, the decoction's ant-inflammatory and antioxidant effects may also contribute to its beneficial impact on hormonal balance and overall women's health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Paederia foetida decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance.

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Paederia foetida decoctions may help with hormonal imbalance by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, thus regulating the balance of hormones in the body.
• Saponins: Saponins found in Paederia foetida decoctions may help with hormonal imbalance by modulating the activity of certain enzymes involved in hormone regulation, thereby maintaining hormonal balance.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids present in Paederia foetida decoctions may help with hormonal imbalance by acting as antioxidants and modulating the expression of genes involved in hormone regulation, ultimately contributing to hormonal balance.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of skunkvine used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance.

• Leaves: Used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance due to their purported ability to regulate estrogen levels and alleviate symptoms associated with menopause.
• Roots: Utilized for their potential to normalize hormonal imbalances by promoting the production of thyroid hormones and regulating menstrual cycles.
• Rhyzomes: Employed for their supposed capacity to balance hormones by reducing inflammation and promoting the body's natural hormonal equilibrium.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic skunkvine for hormonal imbalance.

1. Gather 10-15 grams of dried paederia foetida roots and stems and wash them thoroughly with water.
2. Chop the cleaned paederia foetida roots and stems into small pieces to increase surface area.
3. Boil 1 liter of water in a saucepan for 5 minutes to achieve optimal temperature.
4. Steep the chopped paederia foetida in the boiling water for 10-15 minutes to release active compounds.
5. Strain the paederia foetida decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove solids.

7. Dioscorea villosa

Wild yam decoctions helps with hormonal imbalance because they contain diosgenin, a compound that converts to progesterone in the body.

This natural conversion process can help alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalances such as PMS, hot flashes, and mood swings. The decoction also contains other beneficial compounds like saponins and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

By regulating hormone levels and reducing inflammation, wild yam decoctions may promote overall health and well-being for individuals experiencing hormonal imbalance.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Dioscorea villosa decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance.

• Saponins: Saponins in Dioscorea villosa decoctions help with hormonal imbalance by acting as a natural estrogen regulator, supporting the balance of estrogen levels in the body.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids present in Dioscorea villosa decoctions help with hormonal imbalance by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to a balanced hormonal environment.
• Steroidal saponins: Steroidal saponins in Dioscorea villosa decoctions help with hormonal imbalance by regulating the production and secretion of hormones, particularly insulin and sex hormones, thus supporting the body's natural hormonal balance.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wild yam used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance.

• Roots: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of diosgenin, a steroidal saponin responsible for their medicinal properties.
• Seeds: They are also used due to their high content of diosgenin and other bioactive compounds, which contribute to the treatment of hormonal imbalances.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild yam for hormonal imbalance.

1. Harvest 100 to 200 grams of dioscorea villosa rhizomes from a clean source and thoroughly wash them.
2. Chop the harvested rhizomes into small pieces using a sharp knife or tool and weigh out 30 grams.
3. Combine the chopped rhizomes with 1 liter of water in a pot and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to a simmer and allow the decoction to steep for 30 to 60 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

8. Ruscus aculeatus

Dog holly decoctions helps with hormonal imbalance because of its unique ability to regulate and balance canine hormones.

The plant's bioactive compounds, including isoflavones and flavonoids, have been shown to mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, helping to restore natural hormone levels and alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, aggression, and urinary incontinence.

By supporting hormonal equilibrium, herbal dog holly decoctions can promote overall health and well-being in dogs, particularly those experiencing menopause-like symptoms or reproductive issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ruscus aculeatus decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance.

• Saponins: Saponins in Ruscus aculeatus decoctions help alleviate hormonal imbalance by inhibiting the production of androgens, which can contribute to conditions like hirsutism and acne.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Ruscus aculeatus decoctions exhibit antioxidant properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly in the context of menopause and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
• Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids found in Ruscus aculeatus decoctions have been shown to possess anti-androgenic and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help regulate hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of conditions like hirsutism and acne.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dog holly used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance.

• Leaves: They are used due to their estrogenic properties, which help balance hormonal levels in the body.
• Roots: They are used for their ability to regulate hormonal balance and reduce symptoms of menopause and other hormonal imbalances.
• Stems: They are used due to their saponin content, which helps to balance estrogen levels and alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dog holly for hormonal imbalance.

1. Harvest fresh ruscus aculeatus roots and leaves in the morning to ensure maximum potency.
2. Cut the harvested ruscus aculeatus roots and leaves into small pieces to increase surface area.
3. Combine 2 teaspoons of the cut ruscus aculeatus roots and leaves with 1 quart of cold water in a saucepan.
4. Boil the mixture over high heat for 10 to 15 minutes to release the active compounds.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.

9. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with hormonal imbalance because it is rich in phytoestrogens, which are plant-based compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body.

The decoction has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and mood swings, by helping to regulate hormonal levels.

Additionally, its adaptogenic properties allow it to support the body's natural balance, promoting overall well-being and hormonal harmony.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate hormonal imbalance by scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, which is known to contribute to hormonal imbalances.
• Terpenoids: Bilobalide has been shown to have a protective effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a key regulator of hormone production, thereby helping to maintain hormonal balance.
• Triterpenoids: Ginkgolides have been found to modulate the production and activity of various hormones, including insulin and thyroid hormones, thus helping to stabilize hormonal levels.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which helps balance hormones and alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance.
• Barks: The barks are used for their ginkgolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help regulate hormonal imbalances and promote overall well-being.
• Roots: The roots are used for their ginkgolides, which have antioxidant properties that can help stabilize hormonal fluctuations and promote hormonal balance.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for hormonal imbalance.

1. Gather 1 ounce of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and store them in a clean dry container.
2. Measure 250 milliliters of water and boil it in a saucepan over high heat.
3. Add the dried ginkgo biloba leaves to the boiling water and reduce heat to medium.
4. Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.

10. Taraxacum mongolicum

Mongolian dandelion decoctions helps with hormonal imbalance because it contains compounds that support the body's natural detoxification processes, specifically targeting estrogen metabolism.

The plant's rich antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which can contribute to hormonal imbalances. Additionally, Mongolian dandelion's ability to stimulate the liver and kidneys enhances their function in processing and excreting hormones, promoting a healthy balance of estrogen and other sex hormones in the body.

This natural approach helps regulate menstrual cycles, alleviate symptoms of menopause, and support overall reproductive health.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum mongolicum decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance.

• Flavonoids: They help with hormonal imbalance by exhibiting anti-estrogenic and anti-androgenic properties, thereby modulating the body's hormonal balance and alleviating symptoms associated with hormonal disorders.
• Terpenoids: They aid in hormonal balance by acting as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents, which can help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with hormonal imbalances.
• Phenylethanoid glycosides: They contribute to hormonal balance by exerting estrogen-modulating effects, potentially helping to alleviate symptoms of estrogen-related disorders such as menopausal hot flashes and irregular menstrual cycles.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mongolian dandelion used to make decoctions for hormonal imbalance.

• Roots: They are used for their potential to regulate hormones and alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds.
• Flowers: Taraxacum mongolicum flowers are used in decoctions to help stabilize hormones and alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance, such as mood swings and irregular menstrual cycles.
• Seeds: The seeds of Taraxacum mongolicum are used in decoctions to help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as PMS and irregular periods, due to their potential anti-inflammatory and estrogen-regulating properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mongolian dandelion for hormonal imbalance.

1. Harvest taraxacum mongolicum roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full growth.
2. Clean the roots thoroughly with water to remove any dirt and debris from the harvesting process.
3. Chop the roots into small pieces with a sharp knife to increase their surface area for infusion.
4. Combine 30 grams of chopped taraxacum mongolicum roots with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
5. Steep the mixture for 30-40 minutes to allow the active ingredients to infuse into the water.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for hormonal imbalance?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with hormonal imbalance is a blend of Ashwagandha, Maca, and Dong Quai.

Ashwagandha helps regulate cortisol levels and reduce stress, while Maca balances estrogen and testosterone levels. Dong Quai, rich in iron and antioxidants, supports adrenal function and promotes menstrual health.

This combination works synergistically to alleviate symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as mood swings, fatigue, and irregular periods, promoting overall hormonal balance and well-being.

What ailments similar to hormonal imbalance are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to hormonal imbalance that are treated with herbal decoctions are menopause symptoms, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), and thyroid disorders.

Herbal decoctions such as black cohosh, St. John's Wort, and dong quai help alleviate hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances associated with menopause.

Decoctions like chasteberry, dandelion, and bladderwrack may also help regulate ovulation, reduce acne, and improve thyroid function in individuals with PCOS or hypothyroidism.