Understanding Endometriosis: Nutritional Therapy and Herbal Medicine for Symptom Relief
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus, known as endometrium, starts growing outside the uterus. This can cause severe pelvic pain, menstrual irregularities and can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life. Medical treatments often include hormonal therapies and surgical interventions, but these can come with side effects and may not always be effective.
As a result, many women turn to complimentary therapies to manage their symptoms. Nutritional therapy and herbal medicine offer promising options for those seeking a more holistic approach to endometriosis management.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis affects an estimated 10% of women of reproductive age. The misplaced endometrial tissue continues to act as it normally would – thickening, breaking down and bleeding with each menstrual cycle. However, because this tissue has no way to exit the body, it becomes trapped, leading to inflammation, scar tissue formation and adhesions. The exact cause of endometriosis is still unknown, making it a challenging condition to treat. Conventional treatments aim to reduce symptoms and prevent disease progression but often fall short in providing long-term relief.
Although your medical history, a physical examination and imaging (ultrasound or MRI scans) can shed some light on the cause of your symptoms, the only reliable way to diagnose endometriosis is laparoscopy, is a surgical procedure in which a small camera is inserted into the abdomen through a small incision. This allows the healthcare provider to directly visualise the pelvic organs and check for the presence of endometrial implants, cysts (endometriomas) or scar tissue.
Stages of Endometriosis:
Stage I (minimal): there are small patches or implants of endometrial tissue on or near the pelvic organs.
Stage II (mild): there are many deep implants and/ or small cysts on the pelvic organs.
Stage III (moderate): there are many deep implants and cysts on the pelvic organs, and there may also be some scar tissue.
Stage IV (severe): there are extensive implants and scar tissue on the pelvic organs, and there may also be involvement of other organs in the abdominal cavity such as bowel or bladder.
Early diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis is important in order to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications, such as infertility.
The Role of Nutritional Therapy
Nutritional therapy focuses on the use of diet and supplements to support the body’s natural healing processes. For women with endometriosis, certain dietary modifications can help manage inflammation, balance hormones and alleviate pain.
Anti-inflammatory Diet
Incorporate Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in oily fish like salmon, herring, mackerel and sardines, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseed oil, omega-3s have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Increase Fiber Intake: Vegetables and fruit help regulate oestrogen levels by promoting its excretion through the digestive system.
Eat Brightly Coloured Foods: The bioactive compounds in berries and brightly coloured fruit and vegetables contain polyphenols (phenolic acids, flavonoids, such as anthocyanins, flavonols and tannins) as well as vitamin C, quercetin, rutin and other phytochemicals, help to reduce chronic pelvic inflammation characteristic of endometriosis.
Reduce Red Meat and Processed Foods: These can exacerbate inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis.
Balancing Hormones
Consume Phytoestrogens: Foods like flaxseeds and soy contain phytoestrogens that can help balance oestrogen levels. This is done through a mechanism called competitive inhibition. Phytoestrogens can weakly bind to oestrogen cell receptors, preventing much more potent endogenous oestrogens made in the body as well as xenoestrogens from plastics from binding to those receptors, providing protection from the effects of strong oestrogens.
Avoid Excessive Dairy and Sugar: Both can contribute to hormonal imbalances and induce the increase of inflammatory mediators and pro-inflammatory cytokines in various body tissues.
Essential Supplements
Magnesium: Helps reduce menstrual cramps and muscle tension.
Vitamin B6: Supports progesterone production and helps reduce oestrogen dominance.
Zinc: Important for immune function and hormone balance.
Milk Thistle: Supports the liver, which is responsible for the clearance of old hormones.
Broccoli sprouts: Broccoli sprouts play a crucial role in reducing oestrogen dominance linked to endometriosis. They are rich in the chemical glucoraphanin, which is changed to another compound called sulforaphane during digestion. Sulforaphane not only aids in detoxifying excess oestrogen but also enhances oestrogen receptors’ receptivity.
Probiotics: Laboratory and clinical studies demonstrate that there are indeed differences in the microbiome composition of those with and without endometriosis. A healthier and more diverse composition of gut and vaginal microbiomes are associated with better clinical outcomes in patients with endometriosis.
The Power of Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine has been used for centuries to treat various gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis. Many herbs have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and hormone-balancing properties.
Turmeric:
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis.
Ginger:
Known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, ginger can be consumed as a tea or supplement to help manage endometriosis symptoms.
Vitex (Chaste Tree Berry):
Vitex is known to balance hormones by promoting progesterone production and reducing oestrogen dominance. This can be particularly beneficial for women with endometriosis.
Ashwagandha:
An adaptogenic herb that helps the body manage stress and supports adrenal function, which can be beneficial for hormone balance and overall well-being.
Top Tips for Managing Endometriosis Holistically
Diet:
Follow an anti-inflammatory diet: Emphasize whole, unprocessed foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and phytoestrogens.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports overall health and can help reduce bloating. When you become dehydrated, your body responds by releasing hormones vasopressin and aldosterone, which result in water retention. Water retention causes bloating and worsens the symptoms of endometriosis.
Supplements:
Consider essential supplements: Magnesium, Vitamin B6, and Zinc can support hormone balance and reduce symptoms.
Consult a healthcare provider: Before starting any new supplement, ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
Sleep:
Prioritize quality sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support hormonal balance and reduce stress.
Create a bedtime routine: Establish a calming routine before bed, such as reading or taking a warm bath, to improve sleep quality.
Exercise:
Stay active: Regular exercise can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
Incorporate gentle activities: Yoga and Pilates can be particularly beneficial for reducing pelvic pain and improving flexibility.
Conclusion
Managing endometriosis can be challenging, but incorporating nutritional therapy and herbal medicine into your daily routine can offer significant relief from symptoms. An anti-inflammatory diet, targeted supplements, and the use of specific herbs can support hormonal balance, reduce inflammation and improve quality of life. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or starting new supplements or herbal treatments.
References
Bulun, S. E. (2009). Endometriosis. New England Journal of Medicine, 360(3), 268-279.
Missmer, S. A., & Cramer, D. W. (2003). The epidemiology of endometriosis. Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America, 30(1), 1-19.
Parazzini, F., Viganò, P., Candiani, M., & Fedele, L. (2017). Diet and endometriosis risk: a literature review and meta-analysis. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 35(2), 109-118.
Jerman, L. F., & Hey-Cunningham, A. J. (2015). The role of the lymphatic system in endometriosis: A comprehensive review of the literature. Biology of Reproduction, 92(3), 64-64.
Mitchell, C. M., et al. (2011). The effect of ginger supplementation on pain in women with primary dysmenorrhea. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 17(2), 139-142.
Endometriosis and the microbiome: a systematic review https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31454452/
Estrogen Receptors and Endometriosis https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7215544/
© Marina Townsley, ND
Master Herbalist AMH, Nutritional Therapist BANT