Uterine Fibroids: Causes, Medicinal Herbs and Herbal Preparations

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus, often causing painful and heavy menstrual periods, frequent urination, and abdominal discomfort.

They are typically caused by hormonal imbalances, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle factors such as obesity and stress. If left untreated, fibroids can lead to anemia, infertility, and even increase the risk of preterm labor. To alleviate symptoms, herbal remedies like red clover, chasteberry, and dandelion root can be used in the form of teas, tinctures, or capsules.

However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using medicinal herbs, as they may interact with other medications or exacerbate underlying conditions.

This article explains in detail what are the causes of uterine fibroids, what medicinal herbs to use to relieve this problem and how to prepare these herbs to get the best results.

What are the main causes of uterine fibroids?

The main causes of uterine fibroids are multifactorial, but research suggests that hormonal influences, genetics, and environmental factors play a significant role.

Estrogen and progesterone, specifically, are known to stimulate the growth of fibroids, with estrogen levels being a key factor in the development and maintenance of these tumors. Genetic predisposition also contributes to the risk of developing uterine fibroids, with studies indicating that women with a family history of fibroids are more likely to develop them. Additionally, factors such as obesity, a diet high in red meat and low in fiber, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals have been linked to an increased risk of uterine fibroids.

Furthermore, certain racial and ethnic groups, particularly African Americans, are more susceptible to developing uterine fibroids due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

• Heredity: Heredity is the most common cause of uterine fibroids, as women with a family history of fibroids are more likely to develop them due to genetic predisposition.
• Hormones: Hormonal imbalances, particularly an excess of estrogen and a deficiency of progesterone, can stimulate the growth of uterine fibroids, as these hormones play a crucial role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and uterine tissue growth.
• Obesity: Obesity is a significant risk factor for developing uterine fibroids, as excess body fat can lead to an increase in estrogen production, which can stimulate the growth of fibroids.
• Age: Uterine fibroids are more common in women over the age of 30, as the risk of developing fibroids increases with age due to the prolonged exposure to estrogen and the natural decline in progesterone levels.
• Ethnicity: African American women are more likely to develop uterine fibroids than women of other ethnicities, with a higher prevalence and severity of fibroids reported in this population.
• Nutrition: A diet high in red meat and low in fiber and fruits has been linked to an increased risk of developing uterine fibroids, as these dietary patterns can lead to an increase in estrogen production and a decrease in the body's ability to regulate estrogen levels.
• Stress: Chronic stress can lead to an increase in cortisol production, which can stimulate the growth of uterine fibroids by promoting the production of estrogen and inhibiting the production of progesterone.
• Environmental toxins: Exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides and heavy metals, has been linked to an increased risk of developing uterine fibroids, as these toxins can disrupt the body's hormonal balance and lead to an increase in estrogen production.
• Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle has been linked to an increased risk of developing uterine fibroids, as physical activity can help to regulate estrogen levels and reduce the risk of fibroid development.
• Nulliparity: Women who have never given birth are at a higher risk of developing uterine fibroids, as pregnancy and childbirth can help to reduce the risk of fibroid development by promoting the regression of fibroids and improving uterine tissue health.

What are the primary medicinal plants used for uterine fibroids?

The main medicinal herbs used for uterine fibroids are Vitex agnus-castus, Urtica dioica, Ginkgo biloba, Angelica sinensis, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Curcuma longa, Trifolium pratense, Silybum marianum, Paeonia lactiflora, Aloe barbadensis.

Vitex agnus-castus, also known as chaste tree, has been shown to regulate hormonal imbalances and reduce fibroid size by inhibiting estrogen production. Urtica dioica, or stinging nettle, has anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in antioxidants, which help to alleviate symptoms and reduce fibroid growth. Curcuma longa, or turmeric, contains curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, reducing fibroid inflammation and oxidative stress.

Additionally, Angelica sinensis, Paeonia lactiflora, Ginkgo biloba, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Trifolium pratense, Silybum marianum and Aloe barbadensis have been traditionally used to reduce inflammation, promote uterine health, and alleviate symptoms associated with uterine fibroids.

• Vitex agnus-castus: Vitex agnus-castus, also known as chaste tree, helps with uterine fibroids by regulating estrogen and progesterone levels, potentially reducing the growth of fibroids and alleviating symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Urtica dioica: Urtica dioica, or stinging nettle, may help with uterine fibroids by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to fibroid growth and symptoms like pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Ginkgo biloba: Ginkgo biloba does not have a direct link to treating uterine fibroids, but it may help with symptoms associated with fibroids, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation.
• Angelica sinensis: Angelica sinensis, or dong quai, may help with uterine fibroids by regulating estrogen and progesterone levels, improving blood flow to the uterus, and reducing inflammation, potentially alleviating symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
• Glycyrrhiza glabra: Glycyrrhiza glabra, or licorice root, may help with uterine fibroids by inhibiting the growth of fibroid cells and reducing inflammation, potentially alleviating symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
• Curcuma longa: Curcuma longa, or turmeric, contains curcumin, which may help with uterine fibroids by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially alleviating symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
• Trifolium pratense: Trifolium pratense, or red clover, contains isoflavones that may help with uterine fibroids by regulating estrogen levels and reducing inflammation, potentially alleviating symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
• Silybum marianum: Silybum marianum, or milk thistle, may help with uterine fibroids by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially alleviating symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
• Paeonia lactiflora: Paeonia lactiflora, or peony, may help with uterine fibroids by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially alleviating symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
• Aloe barbadensis: Aloe barbadensis, or aloe vera, may help with uterine fibroids by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially alleviating symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.

What are the main herbal preparations used for uterine fibroids?

The main herbal preparations used for uterine fibroids are Decoction, Tincture, Capsules, Cream, Suppository, Salve, Poultice, Gel, Elixir, Oil.

Decoction of herbs like Red Clover and Dong Quai is used to reduce bleeding and alleviate symptoms due to their high isoflavone and iron content. Tincture of herbs like Blue Cohosh and Wild Yam is used to relax the uterine muscles and reduce pain caused by fibroids due to their estrogenic and anti-inflammatory properties. Capsules of herbs like Chasteberry and Vitex Agnus-Castus are used to regulate hormonal imbalances and prevent fibroid growth by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins.

Various topical preparations like Cream, Suppository, Salve, Poultice, Gel, Elixir, and Oil of herbs like Calendula and Aloe Vera are used to soothe and reduce inflammation of the uterine area.

• Decoction: A decoction made from the root of Angelica sinensis may help alleviate uterine fibroids by reducing inflammation and promoting menstrual regularity.
• Tincture: A tincture of Vitex agnus-castus may help alleviate symptoms of uterine fibroids by regulating menstrual cycles and reducing fibroid-related discomfort.
• Capsules: Capsules containing the dried root of Tribulus terrestris may help alleviate uterine fibroids by reducing fibroid size and improving menstrual regularity.
• Cream: A topical cream made from the essential oils of Calendula officinalis and Chamomilla recutita may help alleviate uterine fibroid-related discomfort and inflammation.
• Suppository: A suppository made from the dried root of Althaea officinalis may help reduce inflammation and alleviate uterine fibroid-related discomfort by providing localized, direct application to the affected area.
• Salve: A salve made from the dried leaves of Plantago major may help reduce inflammation and alleviate uterine fibroid-related discomfort by providing topical application of anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Poultice: A poultice made from the dried root of Echinacea purpurea may help reduce inflammation and alleviate uterine fibroid-related discomfort by providing localized, direct application of anti-inflammatory compounds to the affected area.
• Gel: A gel made from the essential oils of Aloe barbadensis and Matricaria chamomilla may help reduce inflammation and alleviate uterine fibroid-related discomfort by providing topical application of anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Elixir: An elixir made from the flowers of Hibiscus sabdariffa may help alleviate uterine fibroids by reducing inflammation, promoting menstrual regularity, and improving overall uterine health.
• Oil: A massage oil made from the essential oils of Carum carvi and Foeniculum vulgare may help reduce inflammation and alleviate uterine fibroid-related discomfort by promoting relaxation and reducing menstrual cramping through the application of anti-inflammatory compounds.