Natural Help for PCOS

#1: Saw Palmetto

Saw Palmetto may reduce elevated Androgens and Prolactin in women with PCOS. Saw Palmetto is indicated for benign prostatic hyperplasia, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and hormone imbalances (Estrogen or Testosterone).

Saw Palmetto contains fatty acids known collectively as liposterols shown to inhibit the 5 alpha-reductase enzyme, found in the adrenal glands that convert Testosterone into its most active form, dihydrotestosterone. Women with hirsutism and elevated Testosterone may have excessive 5 alpha-reductase enzyme activity. Thinning of the hair in woman may also be initiated and promoted when 5 alpha-reductase is up regulated. Saw palmetto has been shown to promote hair growth.

Elevated androgens are the hallmark of PCOS in women. Saw Palmetto has been shown to reduce the uptake of androgens, including dihydrotestosterone and Testosterone, into tissues by 40%. Prolactin is typically elevated in women with PCOS and a leading cause of amenorrhea and infertility. In women with PCOS, elevated Prolactin can suppress follicle maturation, ovulation, and contribute to ovarian cysts. Animal studies show Saw Palmetto to inhibit Prolactin receptors on ovarian cells. Dosage: 160 to 450 mg 2 times daily for an extract containing 45-95% fatty acids.

#2: Vitex

Vitex (Chaste Tree) can restrain Prolactin and Testosterone which are prevalent in PCOS and supplement normal menstrual cycles and ovulation. Vitex has a gentle but very effective action. It works to stimulate the hypothalamus-pituitary axis to secrete the right hormones at the right time in the right amounts. The timing of hormones released from the pituitary governs menstruation and fertility.

Vitex encourages the restoration of hormone balance and the regulation of the reproductive cycle. Most women with PCOS have too much Prolactin and too little Progesterone. The Progesterone deficit occurs in the 2nd half (luteal phase) of the cycle. This is called Luteal Phase Defect which can cause infertile or early miscarriage. Vitex can correct this imbalance and restore menstrual cycle.

Viex is most effective when taking very regularly in a single dose every morning. For PCOS, the suggested dose is 500-1000 mg per day. Be patient. It may take several months for the effect to become noticeable. Vitex is an exceptionally safe herb with few reported side effect. So..Vitex and Saw Palmetto are for you!