By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Uterine Fibroids
Herbal decoctions for uterine fibroids are a natural and holistic approach to managing symptoms associated with these non-cancerous growths.
By steeping herbs in hot water, herbal decoctions release bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation, regulate hormonal imbalances, and improve circulation, all of which can alleviate symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and bloating.
Examples of helpful herbs include chamomile, red clover, and dong quai, which have been shown to reduce fibroid size and alleviate associated discomforts, improving overall quality of life for women suffering from uterine fibroids.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for uterine fibroids, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Urtica dioica
- 2. Angelica archangelica
- 3. Vitex agnus castus
- 4. Taxus baccata
- 5. Ginkgo biloba
- 6. Artemisia absinthium
- 7. Aloe vera
- 8. Silybum marianum
- 9. Taraxacum officinale
- 10. Cuminum cyminum
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for uterine fibroids?
- What ailments similar to uterine fibroids are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Urtica dioica
Stinging nettle decoctions helps with uterine fibroids because of its rich composition of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that target the root causes of fibroid growth.
The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation in the uterine lining, which can contribute to fibroid formation. Additionally, stinging nettle's ability to balance hormones and regulate estrogen levels helps to slow down or even halt fibroid growth.
By reducing symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pain, stinging nettle decoctions offer a natural and gentle approach to managing uterine fibroids.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica decoctions that help with uterine fibroids.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates in Urtica dioica decoctions may help alleviate uterine fibroids by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation.
- Flavonoids: This phenolic compound has been shown to have anti-estrogenic properties, which may help reduce the growth and proliferation of uterine fibroid cells by blocking estrogen receptor signaling.
- Saponins: These triterpenoid saponins in Urtica dioica may help inhibit the growth of uterine fibroids by inducing apoptosis (cell death) and preventing angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels that supply the tumor).
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids.
- Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are the most commonly used part for decoctions to treat uterine fibroids due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids due to their rich content of saponins, which help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are also used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids, as they contain bioactive compounds that help to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce fibroid growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for uterine fibroids.
- Gather 2-3 tablespoons of urtica dioica leaves and stems from a trusted source for medicinal use.
- Clean the urtica dioica leaves and stems by gently rinsing with cold water for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine the cleaned urtica dioica leaves and stems with 8 ounces of boiling water in a saucepan.
- Steep the urtica dioica mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid reaches your desired strength.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup for consumption.
2. Angelica archangelica
Angelica decoctions helps with uterine fibroids because it is believed to have a dual mechanism of action.
Firstly, it helps to reduce inflammation and relax smooth muscle tissue, thereby alleviating symptoms such as pain, cramping, and heavy bleeding associated with fibroids. Secondly, angelica's estrogen-regulating properties may help to slow down the growth of fibroid tumors and even induce shrinkage over time.
By addressing both the physical and hormonal aspects of uterine fibroids, angelica decoctions offer a natural and holistic approach to managing this condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica decoctions that help with uterine fibroids.
- Phenolic glycosides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the size and growth of uterine fibroids by inhibiting the proliferation of fibroid cells.
- Coumarins: Coumarins in Angelica archangelica have been shown to have anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help prevent the formation of blood clots and reduce the risk of complications associated with uterine fibroids.
- Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the growth and size of uterine fibroids by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting apoptosis (cell death) in fibroid cells.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids.
- Roots: They are used because of their rich content of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties that help alleviate fibroid symptoms.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation and promote overall uterine health.
- Stems: They are used because of their content of volatile oils, which have a relaxing effect on the uterine muscles and may help to reduce fibroid-related pain and discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for uterine fibroids.
- Harvest fresh angelica archangelica roots and stems in the morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife.
- Combine 10g of chopped angelica archangelica with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes or longer to extract the desired bioactive compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container for use.
3. Vitex agnus castus
Chaste tree decoctions helps with uterine fibroids because they contain phytoestrogens, which can help to regulate hormonal imbalances that contribute to their growth.
The decoctions also have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which may help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with uterine fibroids. Additionally, chaste tree has been traditionally used to support uterine health and balance the menstrual cycle, which can be disrupted by fibroids.
By promoting a healthy uterus and balancing hormones, chaste tree decoctions may help to alleviate symptoms and reduce the size of uterine fibroids over time.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vitex agnus castus decoctions that help with uterine fibroids.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, such as aucubin and agnuside, may help alleviate uterine fibroid symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating hormonal activity, which can contribute to fibroid growth.
- Phenylethanoid glycosides: Phenylethanoid glycosides, such as acteoside and isoacteoside, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the size and severity of uterine fibroids.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including kaempferol and isorhapontigenin, may help reduce fibroid growth by inhibiting the proliferation of fibroid cells and inducing apoptosis (cell death), ultimately leading to a reduction in fibroid size.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chaste tree used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of iridoids, which are believed to have a hormone-regulating effect that can help alleviate symptoms of uterine fibroids.
- Seeds: They are used because they contain a higher concentration of vitexin, a compound that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with uterine fibroids.
- Leaves: They are used as they are thought to have a balancing effect on the hormonal system, which can help in managing the symptoms of uterine fibroids.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chaste tree for uterine fibroids.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried vitex agnus castus roots and berries from a trusted supplier or grow your own.
- Weigh out 5-10 grams of the dried plant material for a single serving and place it in a heat-proof container.
- Combine the vitex agnus castus with 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes or longer if desired for a stronger decoction.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and discard the solids.
4. Taxus baccata
Yew decoctions helps with uterine fibroids because they contain compounds that have a natural ability to shrink and dissolve non-cancerous tumors, including uterine fibroids.
The anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties of yew help to reduce the size and symptoms associated with fibroids, such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain. Additionally, yew's antioxidant activity helps to protect the uterus from oxidative damage, which can contribute to the growth and development of fibroids.
As a result, herbal yew decoctions have been traditionally used to support women's reproductive health and alleviate symptoms related to uterine fibroids.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taxus baccata decoctions that help with uterine fibroids.
- Taxine alkaloids: These compounds may help reduce the size of uterine fibroids by inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis (cell death), thus alleviating symptoms.
- Taxol: As a potent inhibitor of microtubule dynamics, Taxol may prevent the growth of uterine fibroid cells by disrupting their mitotic activity, ultimately leading to reduced fibroid size and alleviated symptoms.
- Terpenoids: These compounds may possess anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with uterine fibroids, thereby improving overall quality of life.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yew used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of taxol, a compound that has been shown to have anti-tumor properties and may help alleviate symptoms of uterine fibroids.
- Buds: They are used because they contain taxol and other taxane compounds that may help reduce the growth and size of uterine fibroids.
- Fruits (acones): They are used due to their high content of taxol and other taxane compounds that may help alleviate symptoms and reduce the size of uterine fibroids.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yew for uterine fibroids.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh or dried yew leaves at a time when they are most abundant with essential oils.
- Dry the harvested yew leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Grind 1 teaspoon of dried yew leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Combine the powder with 1 cup of boiling water to make a decoction.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes then strain and discard the solids.
5. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with uterine fibroids because it contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help reduce the growth of these non-cancerous tumors.
The decoction's phytoestrogens also help regulate estrogen levels, which can contribute to fibroid development. Additionally, the decoction's ability to relax smooth muscle tissue may alleviate symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and cramping associated with uterine fibroids.
By promoting hormonal balance and reducing inflammation, maidenhair tree decoctions may provide a natural solution for women seeking relief from these common reproductive issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with uterine fibroids.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with uterine fibroids.
- Ginkgolide b: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative effects, which may help slow down the growth of uterine fibroids and alleviate symptoms.
- Kaempferol: A flavonoid that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of fibroid growth and recurrence.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids.
- Leaves: Known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce fibroid growth and alleviate symptoms.
- Seeds: Used for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help reduce fibroid size and alleviate associated pain.
- Barks: Utilized for their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help reduce inflammation and promote overall uterine health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for uterine fibroids.
- Harvest 5-10 ginkgo biloba leaves from a healthy plant and clean them thoroughly with water.
- Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 1-2 hours.
- Grind 1-2 teaspoons of dried ginkgo biloba leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
6. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood decoctions helps with uterine fibroids because it has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation and spasms in the uterus, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with fibroid tumors.
The antispasmodic properties of wormwood may also help relax the uterine muscles, reducing pressure on surrounding tissues and promoting a healthy hormonal balance.
Additionally, wormwood's antioxidant properties may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation within the body, creating a more conducive environment for natural healing and fibroid regression.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium decoctions that help with uterine fibroids.
- Thujone: Thujone, a sesquiterpene ketone, has been shown to possess anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic properties, which may help reduce the growth and blood supply of uterine fibroids.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound, has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with uterine fibroids.
- Artabsin: Artabsin, a sesquiterpene alcohol, has been reported to have anti-proliferative and anti-androgenic activities, which may help reduce the growth and symptoms of uterine fibroids by inhibiting the effects of androgens.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids.
- Leaves: Artemisia absinthium leaves contain thujone, a bioactive compound that has been traditionally used to relax smooth muscles, which may help alleviate fibroid symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Artemisia absinthium are rich in sesquiterpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, potentially aiding in fibroid pain management.
- Stems: Artemisia absinthium stems contain flavonoids, which may help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce fibroid-related symptoms like heavy bleeding.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for uterine fibroids.
- Gather 5-10 grams of dried artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers from a trusted source.
- Combine the gathered herb in a heat-resistant glass container with 250 milliliters of boiling water.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes in a cool dry place shielded from direct sunlight.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids.
- Allow the strained liquid to cool to room temperature before storing it in a sealed container.
7. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with uterine fibroids because it possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and estrogen-regulating properties.
The aloe vera gel soothes and calms the uterine lining, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with fibroid growth. Additionally, aloe's antioxidant activity helps to neutralize free radicals that can contribute to fibroid development.
By regulating estrogen levels, aloe decoctions may also help to slow down fibroid growth and reduce symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain, providing a natural alternative for women seeking relief from uterine fibroids.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with uterine fibroids.
- Anthraquinones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties, which can help reduce the size and growth of uterine fibroids by inhibiting cell growth and promoting apoptosis (cell death).
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the uterus from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially reducing the growth and symptoms of uterine fibroids.
- Glycoproteins: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic properties, which can help reduce inflammation and fibrosis (scarring) in the uterus, potentially alleviating symptoms of uterine fibroids.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids because they contain gel that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help alleviate fibroid symptoms.
- Barks: Aloe vera barks are used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, which can help reduce fibroid pain and inflammation.
- Roots: Aloe vera roots are used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids because they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce fibroid symptoms and promote overall health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for uterine fibroids.
- Cut 100-200 grams of fresh aloe vera leaves into small pieces to release their medicinal properties.
- Boil 500 ml of water in a saucepan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Add the aloe vera pieces to the boiling water and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Allow the decoction to cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
8. Silybum marianum
Milk thistle decoctions helps with uterine fibroids because it contains silymarin, a flavonoid complex that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
This can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the uterus, which may contribute to the growth of fibroids. Additionally, silymarin has been found to improve liver function and promote detoxification, which can help to remove estrogen mimics from the body, a common culprit in uterine fibroid growth.
By reducing inflammation and promoting detoxification, milk thistle decoctions may help to shrink or stabilize fibroid tumors over time.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Silybum marianum decoctions that help with uterine fibroids.
- Silymarin: It helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with uterine fibroids, potentially shrinking their size and alleviating symptoms.
- Flavonoids: They exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce fibroid growth and alleviate symptoms such as pain and heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Silibinin: It has been shown to inhibit the growth of uterine fibroids by inducing apoptosis (cell death) in fibroid cells and reducing the levels of fibrogenic growth factors.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of milk thistle used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids.
- Seeds: They are often used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and silymarin, which are believed to help reduce fibroid growth and alleviate symptoms.
- Leaves: The leaves are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce pain and discomfort associated with uterine fibroids.
- Flowers: The flowers are sometimes employed due to their ability to act as a diuretic and help reduce fluid retention, a common symptom of uterine fibroids.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic milk thistle for uterine fibroids.
- Gather 20g of dried silybum marianum flowers and roots for decoction.
- Combine the herbal material with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a bowl.
- Discard the solids and store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
9. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion decoctions helps with uterine fibroids because it has been traditionally used to reduce inflammation, promote detoxification, and regulate hormone imbalances.
The diuretic properties of dandelion root may help alleviate symptoms such as bloating and heavy bleeding associated with fibroids. Additionally, the plant's high levels of antioxidants and phytoestrogens may help to shrink fibroid tumors by reducing estrogen production and promoting a healthy balance in the body.
This natural approach can provide relief for women suffering from uterine fibroids without resorting to invasive surgical procedures or pharmaceuticals.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with uterine fibroids.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects, which can help reduce the size and alleviate symptoms of uterine fibroids.
- Taraxanthin: This xanthophyll has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the uterus from oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially reducing the growth and recurrence of fibroids.
- Kaempferol: This flavonoid has been found to have antiproliferative and antiangiogenic effects, which can help slow down the growth of fibroid cells and reduce blood supply to the tumors, potentially shrinking their size and alleviating symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are rich in saponins, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties that can help reduce the size of uterine fibroids.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with uterine fibroids.
- Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are a source of sesquiterpenes and other compounds that may help to reduce estrogen levels and alleviate symptoms associated with uterine fibroids.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for uterine fibroids.
- Harvest 1-2 bunches of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and roots from a clean environment to ensure purity.
- Chop 20-30 grams of the harvested taraxacum officinale roots and leaves into small pieces to release active compounds.
- Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale mixture with 1 liter of boiling water in a large pot to create decoction.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and let the decoction steep for 10-15 minutes to extract beneficial properties.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove solids and obtain a clear liquid.
10. Cuminum cyminum
Cumin decoctions helps with uterine fibroids because they have been traditionally used to ease menstrual cramps, reduce heavy bleeding, and promote overall female reproductive health.
The anti-inflammatory properties of cumin may help shrink the size of fibroids, while its antispasmodic properties may relieve pelvic pain and discomfort.
Additionally, cumin's ability to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity may help alleviate symptoms associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common underlying condition linked to uterine fibroid growth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cuminum cyminum decoctions that help with uterine fibroids.
- Cuminol: A phenolic compound found in Cuminum cyminum, cuminol has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with uterine fibroids.
- Cuminaldehyde: An aldehyde compound present in Cuminum cyminum, cuminaldehyde has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation that can contribute to the growth of uterine fibroids.
- Limonene: A terpene found in Cuminum cyminum, limonene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that can contribute to the development and growth of uterine fibroids.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of cumin used to make decoctions for uterine fibroids.
- Seeds: They contain essential oils and compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, helping to alleviate uterine fibroid symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Cuminum cyminum are believed to have a balancing effect on the menstrual cycle, reducing the size and frequency of uterine fibroids.
- Leaves: The leaves of the plant contain antioxidants and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and promote uterine health, potentially shrinking fibroids over time.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cumin for uterine fibroids.
- Collect 1 tablespoon of cuminum cyminum seeds and dry them in a well-ventilated area for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried seeds into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Combine the ground powder with 1 cup of water in a saucepan and heat it over low heat for 15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a separate container and discard the solids for 5 minutes.
- Store the decoction in a glass bottle in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for uterine fibroids?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with uterine fibroids is a blend of Red Clover, Blue Cohosh, and Dandelion root.
Red Clover contains isoflavones that help to reduce fibroid growth, while Blue Cohosh provides anti-inflammatory properties to alleviate symptoms. Dandelion root aids in detoxification and reducing fluid retention, which can exacerbate fibroid symptoms.
Drinking a decoction of equal parts Red Clover and Blue Cohosh, with a small amount of Dandelion root, may help to alleviate symptoms and promote overall uterine health.
What ailments similar to uterine fibroids are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to uterine fibroids that are treated with herbal decoctions are ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and adenomyosis.
These conditions cause similar symptoms such as heavy bleeding, cramps, and pelvic pain.
Herbal decoctions like dandelion root, red clover, and blue cohosh have been traditionally used to alleviate these symptoms by reducing inflammation, regulating hormone levels, and promoting uterine health.