Dietitian & Nutrition

Herbs For Women Health

15 min reading time
If there is only one single way of ensuring that the health and physical well being of a community is maintained and well balanced, what would it be? The answer though simple is the most neglected and underrated domain when one is implementing health norms. Women’s health does not only consider her own self but the following generations as well.

1. Turmeric:

Let’s begin with the most basic ingredient in a lot of traditional Indian cuisine, Turmeric (Haldi) also known as golden spice truly holds by the name given to it. It has multiple health benefits even when administered in smaller amounts.
It has an active component named curcumin which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. They aid in weight loss, digestion and is a natural antioxidant, it helps fight against heart disease, metabolic syndrome, cancer and various degenerative conditions.
Apart from this, turmeric is also an emmenagogue (a substance that stimulates menstrual flow), it helps to expand the uterus which helps induce menstruation. Turmeric also helps overcome PCOS irregularities and also mothers who are breastfeeding are recommended to consume turmeric as it helps in healing post-delivery. It also helps improve symptoms of arthritis and depression.

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2. Ginger (Adrak):

For a long time now, ginger has been a part of alternative medicine and traditional herbal therapies. The main bioactive compound present in ginger is gingerol. Gingerol is a powerful antioxidant thereby reducing oxidative stress in the body which helps prevent many disease conditions. It has a dramatically positive effect on a diabetic’s HBA1c levels (an important test to note blood sugar levels) and is believed to lower the risk of heart diseases.
Ginger has anti-cancer properties and reduces levels of cholesterol. It also helps fight infections; especially respiratory infections. Ginger significantly helps to reduce menstrual pain when taken at the beginning of the period.
Pregnant women swear by ginger as it helps alleviate nausea and vomiting experienced as part of morning sickness in the early stages of pregnancy. However, it is recommended to women closer to delivery or those who have miscarriages avoid consuming ginger in large amounts.

3. Indian gooseberry (Amla):

Derived from a native tree in India and also called Indian gooseberry, amla is often enjoyed pickled or candied. But the most promising way of consuming amla to procure the various health benefits it has to offer is in its juice form. Amla juice is highly nutritious and a very rich source of vitamin C.
It helps prevent and reduce the duration of certain types of infections especially the common cold. It helps boost the body’s natural immune system.
Amla helps support your heart and digestive health along with aiding efficient liver and kidney function. Most commonly amla is used for maintaining and helping good hair growth and also reducing hair loss.
Studies reported that amla helps block enzymes responsible for hai loss eventually helping to retain and promoting hair growth. Amla promotes fertility, ensures regular periods, and increases sexual ability. It flushes out toxins and maintains hormonal balance.
It assists in overcoming unwanted effects of PCOS (irregular hair growth and obesity) and Menopause (hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, vaginal dryness). It enhances skin health.

4. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic plant, helps to adapt to various stressors in addition to the health benefits it provides. It helps boost brain function and cognitive health, lowers blood sugar, regulates cortisol hormone levels, and also helps fight symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Researchers state that ashwagandha helps improve thyroid health, especially in women as they are more susceptible to having thyroid problems.
They support weight loss, help increase sexual libido, minimize menopausal symptoms and promote general health and longevity. It is safe for most people and most widely consumed.

5. Peppermint (Pudhina)

Mint is a name commonly used for a dozen plants. They impart a cooling sensation and can be used in fresh and dry forms. Mint is highly nutritious specifically in Vitamin A and therefore helps to maintain eye health.
It is also a natural antioxidant and helps to reduce oxidative stress and free radical damage. Mint aids in improving digestive health and assists to combat issues like indigestion, gas, bloating, stomach pains, and irritable bowel syndrome.
It acts as a natural cleanser and eliminates toxins from the body along with purifying the blood. Mint water relieves period pain and menstrual cramps. It reduces androgen levels and hormonal acne in women suffering from PCOS.
Chewing mint leaves reduces nausea experienced during 1st trimester of pregnancy. It improves brain function and memory. There are numerous other herbs, each with its own benefits and potential to improve one’s health.
Incorporating these basic ingredients in our daily diet would surely be a beneficial, easy, and protective way to prevent and reduce any severe ailments.