Common symptoms of PCOS can vary but often include irregular menstrual cycles, such as infrequent or prolonged periods. Women with PCOS may also experience symptoms related to hormone imbalances, such as excessive hair growth (hirsutism) on the face and body, acne, and oily skin. Additionally, PCOS can be associated with weight gain or difficulty losing weight, as well as fertility issues or difficulty getting pregnant.
When it comes to managing PCOS naturally and holistically, there are several herbs and supplements that may be considered as part of a holistic and functional medicine approach. It’s important to note that individual responses to herbs and supplements can vary, and it’s always recommended to work with a qualified healthcare practitioner to determine the most appropriate herbs and supplements for your specific needs. Here are some commonly used herbs and supplements for PCOS management:
- Inositol: Inositol is a type of B-vitamin-like compound that has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce testosterone levels, regulate menstrual cycles, and promote ovulation in women with PCOS. It is available in different forms, such as myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol, and is one of the most effective and commonly supplements for PCOS management. The presence of both myo-inositol and d-chiro-inositol isomers in a myoinositol product is important for optimal management of PCOS symptoms, as these isomers work synergistically to improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, and support reproductive health.
- Berberine: Berberine is a plant compound with anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-regulating properties. It has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce testosterone levels, and regulate menstrual cycles in women with PCOS.
- N-acetyl cysteine (NAC): NAC is an antioxidant and a precursor to glutathione, a powerful antioxidant produced by the body. It has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, and reduce oxidative stress in women with PCOS.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a spice with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control in women with PCOS. It can be used as a spice in cooking or taken as a supplement.
- Vitex (Chaste tree berry): Vitex is an herb that has been traditionally used for hormonal imbalances in women, including PCOS. It is thought to help regulate menstrual cycles and balance hormones by acting on the pituitary gland.
- Saw palmetto: Saw palmetto is an herb that is commonly used for hormonal imbalances in men, but it may also be beneficial for women with PCOS. It has anti-androgenic properties, which means it may help reduce excess testosterone levels in women with PCOS. Saw palmetto may help reduce excessive hair growth (hirsutism) in women by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to its more potent form, dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats found in fish, flaxseeds, and chia seeds. They have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce inflammation, regulate menstrual cycles, and support hormonal balance in women with PCOS. It is important to consider the integrity of the product. Look for omega-3 supplements sourced from reputable manufacturers that use high-quality fish oil or algae-derived oil. Ensure the product undergoes rigorous testing for purity and is free from contaminants such as heavy metals and toxins. Check the levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the supplement. These are the active forms of omega-3 fatty acids responsible for the health benefits. Higher concentrations of EPA and DHA are generally preferred.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a role in many physiological processes, including blood sugar regulation, insulin sensitivity, and hormonal balance. Magnesium supplementation may be beneficial for women with PCOS who have low magnesium levels.
- Zinc: Zinc plays a crucial role in hormonal balance and fertility. It helps improve insulin sensitivity, regulate blood sugar levels, and reduce insulin resistance, which are common issues in women with PCOS. It also inhibits the conversion of testosterone to its more potent form, DHT, potentially reducing symptoms associated with excessive androgens like hirsutism. Additionally, zinc acts as an antioxidant, reducing oxidative stress and supporting ovarian function, which can contribute to hormonal balance and regular menstrual cycles in women with PCOS.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D deficiency is common in women with PCOS and is associated with insulin resistance and irregular menstrual cycles. Vitamin D supplementation can improve insulin sensitivity, help regulate menstrual cycles, and potentially reduce symptoms of PCOS. Additionally, adequate vitamin D levels may support overall reproductive health and improve the outcomes of fertility treatments in women with PCOS.
It’s important to note that while herbs and supplements can be helpful for managing PCOS, they should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, and the dosages should be tailored to the individual’s needs. They should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet, regular exercise, and other lifestyle modifications that are essential for managing PCOS. Additionally, herbs and supplements may interact with medications or have potential side effects, so it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any herbs or supplements you are considering taking.
Take a look at my fullscript formulary to find all of these herbs and supplements, where you can check out my PCOS and ovarian wellness protocol as well.*
Don’t know where to start in choosing which herb is right for you? Click here to book a wellness consultation call with me and get started on your wellness journey!
(This is not medical advice. This post is strictly for informational purposes.)
*Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself or for my friend and family, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.