Childbearing Year

Herbal Allies for PCOS

Hello,

I'm writing on behalf of my sister who approx 2yrs ago was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. For the past 2 years she has had her normal cycle and there were no problems and now all of the sudden her cycle has just stopped. She has gone 3 months now without a period, been to her doctors and specialists and they cannot see why its just paused again. Is there anything Natural she can be taking to help balance her out and boost her cycle? She was on dosages of Progesterone but as she said she is not thinking this was ever her real diagnosis...

She doesnt have any symptoms of this syndrome except an abnormal mentrual cycle so we're basically looking for something that can keep her cycles regular. She is 27 and would like to start a family but with her body so out of whack she really needs some help here! She has not been on the pill for over 3 years hoping that would help since no birth control seemed to.

Thank you for your help.

Greetings,

One of the first things I would do is have your sister start with herbal infusions if she is not already doing so. http://www.susunweed.com/How_to_make_Infusions.htm

Make sure to include nettles, red clover, oatstraw and comfrey leaf. Another thing that works well in balancing women's cycles and our bodies in general is seaweed. This is something that is rarely included in our diet but would be very helpful for your sister to incorporate.

Slow acting Chasteberry (vitex) is highly recommended for regulating cycles. Use a dropperful in a glass of water, 3-4 times a day, and you will usually find that it brings results in a couple of months, but if you need to go beyond that it would be fine as long term is safe. Essential Fatty Acids are essential. Eat fatty fish, full-fat organic dairy, or cod liver oil. Acupuncture has proven very effective for menstrual issues and another tincture I like is blessed thistle.

You can also speak with Susun during her Free hotline Tuesday evenings between 7:30-9:30 pm eastern time or by appointment for a moderate fee (15min/$30 or 30min/$50). For a free consultation, call 845-246-8081 on Tuesday evenings May through October, 7:30-9:30pm EST. For a private phone consultation, go to: www.herbalmedicinehealing.com/store/ You might also go to the Wise Woman Forum to ask your question in case a member can offer you help: www.susunweed.com/wisewomanforum.htm. Hopefully these can give your sister some starting points and just let us know if you need any further assistance.

Blessings,

Kim
Wise Woman Team
www.wisewomanweb.com
www.wisewomanbookshop.com
www.wisewomanuniversity.org

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Join the health hotline teleseminar on Monday and Thursday evenings 8pm EST, through the winter months. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

 

 

Wild Yam: Prevents or Enhances Conception?

Hi there,

I hope you can clear up some confusion i'm having about taking wild yam. I am 39 and trying to conceive for the first time. 

This is what Susun had said about the Wild Yam on the Healing Wise site:

Wild yam can help you ovulate when taken daily for the first two weeks of your
cycle. It can help you hold a conception when taken for the last two weeks of the
cycle. It can prevent conception if taken daily.

Take wild yam to increase fertility from the first day of your period until ovulation.
When taken every day it is considered a contraceptive.

This made perfect sense until I found the opposite info in the New Menopausal Years by Susun. On page 174 under Wild Yam it says: "Wild Yam can be used to prevent pregnancy (3 cups tea daily) or to increase fertility (dropperful of tincture 1-3 times a day), for the last two weeks of menstrual cycle.

So which is it? Do I take wild yam for the first two weeks or the last two weeks to increase fertility? I'm confused. Not to mention numerous other sources said to take it AFTER ovulation (the last two weeks), that if taken before ovulation it can actually prevent ovulation!

My issue is that i'm not ovulating, but still have a menstrual cycle. And when I do ovulate it's all over the place, right after my period, in the middle of the cycle. It has a mind of its own, so I have no idea when to take the wild yam, and even if did know, with the seemingly contradiction in advice, I still wouldn't be sure when to take it.

I've always trusted Susun's advice. I have all her books and she is the first herbal mind I go to when i need great info on herbs, but seeing opposite advice has left me confused. I'm sure, I'm just not understanding it correctly, so please help to clear up.

Thanks! Hope to hear from you soon.

 

 

Hi,

It can be confusing! Wild Yam is one of those herbs that has a wide range of effects, depending on when you take it and the form it is taken in. Hence the reason it can be used both as a contraceptive and yet at the same time promote fertility. Also, it seems that the substances within wild yam needs to go through the digestive process to cause change, one reason why topical use is showing to be of no use.

It can cause different results in hormones to different people due to your own gut flora (I would make sure to incorporate organic full-fat yogurt in diet if not doing so) ...SO... after all is said and done, to increase fertility in normal situations, consensus is to take small doses (a cup of tea or 10-20 drops of tincture) daily during the first half of the cycle from onset of menses until mid-period. Only use either tea or tincture.

 

FROM SUSUN: "In either case, the effect seems to be triggered by the large amount of hormone-like substances found in this root. When taken daily, these substances may be converted into progesterone, thus decreasing the possibility of conception. When taken for the two weeks preceding ovulation, these substances may be converted into LH and FSH, hormones which are needed to make the egg ready to be fertilized."

 

If you haven't already, I would investigate some other ways of increasing your fertility as well. Number one for Susun is to be drinking red clover blossom infusions. Only use infusions as the teas and capsules have been ineffective for this use.

Instructions for making red clover infusion.

You will need a quart canning jar, an ounce of herb by weight, and a kettle big enough to boil at least a quart of water. Put the dried herb into the jar. It will fill it about 1/3 full. Pour the boiling water over the dried herb, filling the jar. Cover tightly and steep four hours or overnight. Strain out the herbal material. Drink the remaining liquid at room temperature, over ice, or heated up. Be sure to use dried clover blossoms; fresh ones don't infuse well. The usual dose is one to four cups of infusion daily for 12-18 months.

Another wonderful ally for fertility issues is vitex (chasteberry). This herb is slow-acting but powerful and long-term use is not a problem. http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Vitex_RedMoonHerbs.htm

 You can also speak with Susun during her Free hotline Tuesday evenings between 7:30-9:30 pm eastern time or by appointment for a moderate fee (15min/$30 or 30min/$50).  For a free consultation, call 845-246-8081 on Tuesday evenings May through October, 7:30-9:30pm EST. For a private phone consultation, go to: www.herbalmedicinehealing.com/store/

Just let us know if you need any further assistance.

Blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team
www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Join the health hotline teleseminar on Monday and Thursday evenings 8pm EST, through the winter months. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

Herbal Birth Control

Aloha 'To Whom It May Concern:'

Please advise me to my current problem...

First let me start off by saying THANKS for your website. I am learning so much!

Second, I have major anxiety related problems & need some advice. My number one anxiety (shortness of breath, raised temperature, gastrointestinal problems, etc) cause is pregnancy. BUT, because of experience I refuse Western birth control. Can you please recommend a thorough plan with herbal birth control? I would like to have an 'after sex' herb/concoction, a before menstrual, whatever else daily/weekly will help. Please advise me.

Much appreciated in advance.

Hello,

Susun offers some advice on herbal birth control here: http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Herbal_Birth_Control.htm

http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/march04/childbearing.htm

Another site we recommend with good info is here: http://sisterzeus.com/herbalcontraception.html

Of course, you must remember that no birth control is 100% effective, including the Pill, condoms, etc. If I were you, no matter what method you use, you need to address your fear. Drink nourishing herbal infusions on a daily basis, especially Oatstraw which helps with anxiety and nettles to support your adrenals. You may want to look into some of Bach's flower remedies as well - many to choose from, depending on how your anxiety is affecting you. Motherwort and skullcap tinctures are also beneficial in calming our minds and bodies. Meditate on your feelings, eat well, sleep well, take care of yourself first and foremost. Fear takes up a tremendous amount of energy - try to find ways to transform your fear into action. I would also check out these articles:

 http://www.susunweed.com/An_Article_Fear_AW1.htm

http://www.susunweed.com/An_Article_Instant-Calm.htm

http://susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/August10/wisewoman.htm

Just let us know if you need any further assistance.

blessings,

Kim

Wise Woman Team

www.wisewomanweb.com

www.wisewomanbookshop.com

www.wisewomanuniversity.org

You can get your health questions answered by Susun in one of two ways. Join the health hotline teleseminar on Monday and Thursday evenings 8pm EST, through the winter months. Or you may register for a private telephone consultation. You can also join the free women's health forum where hundreds of wise woman can help you. Sign up for the free herbal healing ezine, filled with wise woman wit and wisdom. Visit the Wise Woman Bookshop for online university, gift shop, bookshop, digital downloads, and more. Go to www.susunweed.com for a complete list of offerings including radio show and free videos.

 

 

Weight Gain and Hormones

Q: hi susun and justine!

thank you for all your efforts and love. i love both of you dearly.

i am writing to you about me this time. i have gained forty-three pounds in three years especially around my mid area and arms, very, very thick.

i am 38 yrs. old. a friend has told me that i need magnolia oil. she said this will fight the access chromium that is being released into my system caused by stress and worry. is this true?

she said so many women suffer from this but so many do not understand why. could you help me understand this better or point me into the right direction within one of your articles.

i have never been able to conceive either. i was also wondering if perhaps something with my hormones are off. my husband and i have tried to have a baby for years, and have been unsuccessful. i excitedly say that we are now in the process of adoption.

please note, i drink sooooooooooooooooo much red clover.

   

A: Hello, thank you for writing.  I will share your kind words with Susun and Justine.  I personally have not heard of chromium, weight and stress.

Have you had a chance to read this article by Susun on weight?  If you believe hormones have a play in your concern, it may be wonderful if you are drinking Red Clover blossom infusions, though it may be you are drinking too much.

Another wonderful nourisher of healthy hormone function is Vitex. You can read about this here, even though cessation of menses is not your concern, some of what is mentioned may still relate.  Do you also drink other nourishing herbal infusions?

Please let us know if we can help further.  Congratulations on your adoption.

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

Milk Thistle, Dandelion Root, and Contraceptives

Q: could you tell me if dandelion root will cause me to have breakthrough bleeding on pill. i have been taking contraceptive pill constantly without 7 day break for 6 months.  (had to on drs advice as suffer from very heavyperiods) Been having breakthrough bleeding for last 3 weeks.     want to know if dandelion root would cause bleeding as know that it is good to take if on pill. Only thing is just read on net that it can cause period to start.  taking milk thistle as well for the last 4 months.

      

could you tell me what I should take so that i don;t have any bleeding would it be best to leave dandelion root alone.

      

what do you suggest. ( dont want to start dandelion root if going to make me bleed) whole point they put me on pill.

      

A: Hello, thank you for writing.  I know dandelion root to be very supportive of our overall health.  And believe the pill, especially used with no break, to be quite harmful.  So if the dandelion is causing bleeding to happen I consider this health.  Though I do not know if this is the culprit.  It is natural for us women to bleed in cycles between menarche and menopause, when not pregnant or heavily breastfeeding.

Perhaps there are other options you would like to explore.  If this is what you choose I support you.  I do hear you write you "had to" - I invite you to know you do not have to, though of course are welcome to choose to.

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

      

      

Q: Hi Karen

Thanks ever so much getting back to me.

I think i didnt put my question clearly enough as you know been on pill 6 months without break but for last 3 weeks had breakthrough bleeding (quite bad yesterday) .

have also been on Milk thistle for 4 months. I havent tried dandelion root yet

1) Can dandelion root when taken on pill cause breakthrough bleeding

2) Can Milk thisle cause breakthrough bleeding  IS THIS SAFE TO TAKE WITH CONTRACEPTIVE PILL can this cause the bleeding. (v important question) helps my emotions

please get back to me

      

 

      

A: Hello,

I do not know if Dandelion root when taken on the pill can cause breakthrough bleeding.

I do not know if Milk Thistle when taken while taking the pill can cause break through bleeding.  I do not know any contraindications for the common form of this herb, milk thistle seed extract, with the pill.

Please do write any time.  I believe I did understand your original question, yet did not reply clearly.  And I added further thoughts you did not ask for.  I hope this response is clearer.  I am happy to help any way I am able, and am sorry I do not have a more definitive answer for you.

Blessings,
Karen Joy

Conception After 40 and Seizure Disorder

Q: Dear Susun,

I have seen your article regarding childbirth after forty and plan to follow your advice. I thought I'd ask you a few questions specific to my situation to see if you have any other advice. 

I have recently had a yearning to have another child--I have two, five years old and almost 3. had no problem getting pregnant with them, though an earlier pregnancy was ectopic (they believe, never could find the baby on ultrasound--gave me methotrexate to expel any tissue remaining). I will be 44 in Dec but still feel very healthy and fit. My biggest vice of the past couple years has been 2 or 3 cups of coffee a day and I have for the past 6 months been working out vigorously. If I were indeed to start trying again, I would focus on doing all I can nutritionally to conceive a healthy child and would prob cut back a bit on the exercise. I will also take the herbs you recommend.

I have a seizure disorder and take one of the safest meds out there--lamotrigine. Both of my children are healthy and bright and I breastfed both--still am breastfeeding the almost 3 yr old once a day or so.

Question finally is, anything else you think I should take given my health issue (very well controlled--2 grand mal seizures with first pregnancy early on but forgot to take my meds, none with second and only one since bc of med lowering and other extenuating circumstances. I guess I am scared that I am "tempting fate" bc I already have 2 healthy children and worry my age will make another pregnancy more high risk somehow, though I look and feel young! My husband and myself would find a baby with challenges difficult to say the least, although I feel bad saying that. Any words of wisdom or advice for additional herbs to take? 

Thank you,

A: Any of us at any age take that risk. If you are wishing a child I encourage you to consider what is too much to handle, are they things that can be tested for early in  conception, and if you found specific issues what would you two choose at that point? Besides what Susun writes in the article I do not have further herbal suggestions to change your percentage risk. I imagine this is a hard decision, I wish I could help more.

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

Q: I am 44 and in good health and am trying to get pregnant--have tried for only 3 mos. My naturopath who I trust and think is a great doctor--after talking with me today at my visit, "prescribed" 1 tsp of phytoest diluted in water 2 times daily on day 1-14 of menstrual cycle and 1 tsp twice daily of phyto progest on day 15-28 of cycle along with prenatal vitamins, omega 3's, lunaception and something called pregnenolone, to help me conceive. Was wondering if those supplements (specifically the phytoest and phytoprogest by Wise Woman Herbals which is what he sold to me) IN YOUR OPINION make sense for someone looking to get pregnant at 44. I have no known issues with fertility and have a 3 and a five year old currently, although periods seem lighter than before (when younger) and I have some spotting before it starts which I don't recall Also my premenstrual symptoms-sore breasts, irritability, etc. seem to have gotten "lighter" for lack of better word. Cycles are usually somewhere between 28 and 33 days I know you can't diagnose, treat, etc. My children took 3 (1st) and 1 mos (2nd) respectively to conceive so I'm now over that timeline but I am older!!

as I said, I do trust him very much but just remembered I had emailed you and thought I'd ask.......... any info would be helpful

Thanks

A: Hello again!

First, I am curious about the pregnenolone, after reading here:

Due to its antagonistic effects on the GABA receptor in the central nervous system, pregnenolone therapy may be contraindicated in people with a history of seizures. Pregnenolone may inhibit drugs used to increase GABA activity (i.e., neurontin); these drugs are frequently used in the treatment of epilepsy and depression.

I do not see any harm at first glance with the herbs listed in the Wise Woman Herbal product, HOWEVER myself feel odd about using things that are so vague, besides I like one herb at a time. I do not see online if these are tinctures, oils, etc. and how the are used. I myself like to know what plant, how and when harvested, exactly how prepared, etc. before even deciding if safe or not. Those products are as foreign to me as a bottle of vitamin tablets.

So you ask me if it all makes sense for someone looking to get pregnant. It makes sense understanding how some think about it, yes. To me and my approach to health, no. Especially as I see nothing "wrong" needing "fixing" as it sounds you are wonderfully fertile and healthy, just older. And even if I did feel you needed assistance this would not be at all the route I would go.

HOWEVER, part of helping one along one's path is following intuition, whether it makes sense or not. It feels good sometimes to trust someone and add things to our life, whether they make sense or not. I hear you trust this person. That means a lot in my opinion :)

I am not sure if this helps or not. I am glad you asked, and am happy to share my opinion any time. As well I am very happy to support you on the path you choose for yourself, whether or not it is the one I would choose for myself. We are all unique. Besides I will be curious to hear how you are doing.

love and blessings,
Karen Joy

 

Mixing Fertility Tinctures

Q: Hi Susun & Karen Joy,

Thank you for a wonderful website!

I've suffered 2 miscarriages in the past year, and my fertility specialist is pretty positive this is due to my endometriosis which is causing me to produce unhealthy eggs. I've begun a vegeterian diet in the past 3 weeks. I am going by Fern Reiss's "The Infertility Diet: Get Pregnant & Prevent Miscarriage", as I don't seem to be conceiving as quickly as I was before the last miscarriage, 6 mos. ago.

I've just ordered tinctures of the following herbs: nettle, rasberry leaf, false unicorn root, wild yam root, & burdock. I currently drink nettle tea every other day. I think if I can detox my liver, heal,subdue, or prevent further endometriosis, and get my total body into better health, I will successfully conceive and carry a pregnancy. I'm not sure what the dosage amounts of each tincture should be, if they should be taken together or if there are contraindications, and what other details I should know about taking these tincures. I chose these herbs because they're traditional medicine to my family's southeastern native tribes. Unfortunately, no one left in my family has much natural medicine advice.

My husband suggested these are likely to agree with my body based on genetic memory.

I welcome any advice you can give on how I should administer, and what more I can do to learn about herbalogy.

Thanks!!

 

A: Hello, so wonderful you care so deeply for your health, and being proactive about what you can do. I love your idea of finding the plants that might be more familiar to your family history, and those you mention are wonderful women's herbs. I can speak best about the herbs I am most familiar with, as well as the approach to health I most prefer - the Wise Woman Tradition.

I hear your concern, and hear you have endometriosis. My approach then at this point would be to support your health, nourish it so it works most optimally. Like you then I would look toward overall reproductive health and your liver health. And like you I love both Burdock, as well as Dandelion for liver health, though would not see it as detox, or see your liver as toxic, but moreso needing some care so it does its job wonderfully. For this I love tincture of the dandelion root, 15-25 drops in water 3 times a day, usually with meals. It does not need to be with food; I do it this way because it has the added benefit of helping with digestion. You can do the same with Burdock root tincture :)

You mention Nettle and Red Raspberry leaf. I do not use these as tinctures. I feel the value is best found in them prepared as infusions. This is a strong tea - I know you mention drinking Nettle tea so I do not know which you are preparing. I prepare infusions by putting an ounce of the dried leaves in a quart jar, filling with boiling water, capping and letting sit 4-8 hours before straining and drinking. While pregnant I love alternating these each day. Prior to pregnancy I favor more Red Clover blossom infusions.

I have heard wonderful things about False Unicorn root and Wild Yam. In Susun Weed's Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year, she recommends False Unicorn root be taken as a tincture, 5-15 drops per day, prior to pregnancy. Or the infusion can be taken in sips, up to a half a cup per day. To improve fertility, Susun recommends:
"If wild yam is taken in small doses (a cup of tea or 10-20 drops of the tincture daily from onset of menses until mid-period) it increases fertility!"

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Dear Karen Joy,

Hoping you can help me ascertain what's going on with my body since taking the tinctures & teas. Can you let me know what you think about this result? Thanks!

I've been on a vegeterian diet for over a month, off of meat & dairy products for 3 weeks, and I took wild yam root, false unicorn, & raspberry leaf tinctures & nettle tea for 2 weeks this month before & during my period. My period was abnormally long (10 days) and since it's stopped I'm still having an unusual discharge, not blood, but not normal cervical mucus. I'm very concerned to know if this could be resulting from a detox or from something else. I need to know what's causing this discoloration (and it appears to be very small amount of clotting) a week after my period has finished. Since I observe religious laws that prohibit me from having marital relations until my period is a completely over, I am wondering if this is still part of a period or if it's something else. Do you have any idea?

Thank you so much for your wise counsel.
Blessings

 

A: I see you wrote this 5 days ago. How are you today? Is there still discharge that you are concerned about? I can not answer for sure what it is, though know myself that dramatic changes in diet can affect us. I do not consider this a detox however.

love and blessings,
Karen Joy

 

Q: Hi Karen Joy,

Somehow I missed this email from you; I'm so sorry I didnt see it and reply sooner! I did take your advice about limiting the number of herbs I take on at once. Since last cycle I just stuck with the false unicorn root tincture, since all the literature I read says that is a sure-fire way to help endo. I also started adding some Vitex tincture, according to a 'Tayler Tonic' recipe I found online. So this month my usual 27 day period switched to 31 days. But today is my 9th day of menstruation and its just as heavy as ever! I'm concerned. I just don't know what this means. I've rarely had a period longer than 7 days, esp. this heavy. Any idea what may be happening? I'm trying to continue my basically vegeterian and lactose-free diet as well. I read that a whole foods diet (and avoiding fat, fried food, caffeine & alcohol) will help ease the stress I put on my liver and the liver can help eliminate some of the endo! I don't know if that's true but it sounds good.

Would love to know what you think about if these extra long periods are health or not.

Thanks so very much,

 

A: It is great to hear from you. It is hard to know what is causing the change in what is familiar in your cycles. You have made lots of changes - the ones I know about being the use of Vitex tincture, False Unicorn root tincture, no more dairy, no more meat. Last cycle too you were working with some herbs that were new to you. Your last cycle lasted 10 days, so perhaps this did as well? So this change could be related to one or several of the above changes, other changes we are less aware of at the moment, or something else entirely, just coincidental. I can not answer this. The bleeding itself likely will not harm you, it is the cause we need to know to know of risk. When we do bleed excessively we can lose more iron, and the resulting anemia can itself allow us to bleed more. Your amount of bleeding I doubt will have yet affected this, but to be sure I would myself increase iron rich foods in your diet. You have eliminated a great source of this - red meat.

It seems originally your concern was that you had not conceived in a few months so you made changes to your diet and herbs and now are having abnormal cycles where they were once fine. Is this true? It takes time after a miscarriage for us to adjust. This may have been the only hindrance and no change was needed.

Also, lots of people have their own ideas about what is healthy for a person or not -lifestyle, foods, herbs. I can offer mine but some would contradict what you read elsewhere. It is you who have to find this out for yourself, what is best for you. One person's ideas (even my own :)) can not be right for everyone.

My feeling about endo and liver and immune health, is that the more vibrant a body is, more vital, more resilient, the better it is able to process what is normal and natural in life. Stressed livers and immune systems have a harder time and may leave one more prone to endo. However, and this is important, this does not mean that one with endo has a weaker immune system or liver health than one without!! There are many other unseen factors I am sure, due to our genes and environments we lived in. I just mean the stronger our immunity and the stronger our liver and the more vital our hormone health the better we are.

That said then I would want to nourish our liver and our immune system. If one were weak we want to encourage the person to get stronger by working and by feeding her foods that she can build with. If our liver, whose job it is to process out what is not needed in our body, is stressed, I would favor feeding the liver rather than trying to keep it from working. I do this with liver nourishing foods and herbs. To keep your herb protocol simple still I would then focus on bitter foods - greens that are bitter, dandelion is a wonderful one! Same with our immune system, I would focus on nourishing it with good foods. For healthy hormone function I am of the strong belief we most need healthy fats - to me this comes from uncooked extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, raw but soaked or sprouted nuts and seeds, and organic free ranging meats and dairy products.

I know, just another set of ideas for you to choose from. I trust in time you finding what is best for you. It would be my guess the changing cycles are more likely to be a result of your changing diet and herbs. I had distressing changes when I went vegan. However, there are some things that can cause changes in our cycle that can be harmful if they continue - fibroids or endo in some places, uterine polyp, uterine cancer. I would not guess these for you, but must acknowledge I can not know with out tests that only a doctor can do. It is up to you if you feel those tests are necessary right now. Any moment in life we may be walking with a life threatening condition. We must choose when and how often we wish to rule those possibilities out, to the best of our ability.

Please continue to write as you wish. I do have many opinions, but most wish to support you to find what you feel is best for you. I will be curious to hear how you are doing. I will wonder, and would love to hear back.

love and blessings,
Karen Joy

Myomectomy, Fibroids, Fertility, and Migraines

Q: Hi

Please would you advise me, I am 45 years old, married 1 year and longing to be pregnant, tried the red clover treatment, but suffered severe migraines, am I too late? or is there something else I could try??

thanks

A.

 

A: A., when you say you tried the "Red Clover treatment" what specifically do you mean you did, how much and for how long. Do you feel the migraines are from the Red Clover? How are your migraines now? Are you still bleeding? Regularly? I know when we want something so bad and time seems to be ticking away we nearly grab all we can and whatever can work the quickest the better. Although it may be scary I encourage you to choose now the pace and experience of life you want now and for the coming years, no matter what is to come. Some help can be done with diligent focused work, and takes time and patience. I understand though the need to decide and get started now. Knowing what more exactly you have already tried and how your health is, especially your reproductive health, will help me know what to suggest further. Have you read Fertility After Forty?

Have you ever been pregnant? Do you think you have problems with fertility? Are you aware of your most fertile days to time with your husband?

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Dear Karen Joy

thanks for your reply. I am unable to obtain Red Clover Tea, but I took capsules ( 2 capsules x 2 times a day) but coming up to my period time, I would take bad migraines, when I stopped taking the Red Clover, the migraines lessened, my cycle seems to still be regular, but I did have surgery for fibroids approx 4 years ago. No I have never been pregnant, but I think I'm getting the hang of knowing my most fertile times!!! ( a bit naive unfortunately !!!)

thanks again

A.

 

A: Hello A., taking a capsule with tiny bit of dried herb of unknown quality is far different from drinking the infusions regularly. This would still be my first choice for you, unless of course the headaches return and are caused by the infusions. I have never heard of this though. I would hope you drink the infusions for at least 6 months before reevaluating if you would like to add anything else to your routine. The dried blossoms can be gotten from many mail order sources and I believe may be more economical than the capsule bottle.

What surgery did you have for fibroids? Perhaps this has caused scarring. Where were the fibroids and was there some complication with them that helped you decide on surgery? The Red Clover infusion, not tea, can help heal scarring. If there are more fibroids now, Vitex tincture can help shrink these, as well as help with conception. This is mentioned (Chaste Tree) in the article listed above.

The Fertility Awareness Method can help you even better know your cycles. Many have gotten pregnant with this alone. You can learn about it at www.gardenoffertility.com as well as other places :)

 

Blessings,
Karen Joy

 

Q: Thanks Karen Joy,

I had a Myomectomy, as the Fibroid wouldnt stop bleeding, I'm not exactly sure where it was but the Surgeon couldnt tell me if he would have to perform a Hysterectomy (dont' think thats spelt right) or not until he had performed the operation, I am taking Vitex capsules 2 capsules 400 mg x 2 times a day.

thanks again.

A.

 

A: I have rarely heard of this being offered. It is nice that a doctor, when suggesting surgery would offer this option rather than just hysterectomy. With any surgery of course there is risk of scarring, but I believe this can be healed. Vitex is a wonderful herb. Just as with the Red Clover, though, I feel the tincture is far more helpful, not sure if the capsules will help at all. I presently take Vitex tincture and love it!

love and blessings,
Karen Joy

Holding a Pregnancy

Q: Hi Susun,

I am a 39 year old devasted mother who has just this weekend suffered my third miscarriage. I am a mother of a beautiful, healthy 3 year old son, and I thank God that at least I was able to conceive my son. All my miscarriages have been around 10 weeks, and for the first two the fetus did not make it through at 6 weeks, but I carried until the tenth week.

I have decided to take matters in my own hands as the doctors at emergency has basically said that I really cannot do anything about my miscarriages, and will have to suffer more losses than gains, and that my eggs are probably damaged. I cannot except that, and the next pregnancy I am going to try all that I can to produce a healthy sibling for my son.

I have read your website and have come up with this plan. I would really really appreciate any advise you can give me, as all the healthcare givers have really been discouraging to me.

I am Susun brokenhearted and I really need some hope right about now.

This son is my first son, he was a healthy normal pregnancy. I have been breastfeeding him from the get go, and am doing so right now at 3 1/2 years of age until he self weans. I have done some research and will continue to breastfeed him throughout my next pregnancy if he so wishes.

I am healthy, except since birth I have had very heavy bleeding and super painful menses, and very very painful mettleshmertz. I am constantly constipated, and this is extremely painful during moontime, and ovulation. I have talked to my physician who told me to take the laxative Prodiem for the rest of my life, which in fact I am doing right now. I was shocked that it was constipation as I have a movement everyday. I include lots of fibre in my diet still, drink lots of water and have gone through colon irrigation, but really I have noticed its during moontime its the worst especially painful in my lower right hand side. I also have a uterine fibroid growing outside my uterus at the side, and my doctor doesn't feel we need to do anything about this.

I am telling you all this because I don't know if this has a link to my miscarriages at all.

After this third miscarriage my intuition is telling me that really I was supposed to have this baby, and maybe it was the level of my hormones. Can extended breastfeeding have anything to do with this?

Also prior to this miscarriage I had gone to a Chinese doctor who had prescribed herbs and performed acupuncture for this pregnancy to stay.....obviously did not work.

After reading your website, I have come to the conclusion that I need to include the following in my diet:

(1) Vitex -
Firstly to shrink my fibroids. Is taking this for a long period harmful to my son? If it produces progesterone will I be able to conceive? Is this what I need to up my hormones or should I also take Wild Yam closer to conception? Am I able to take this in a herbal pill form? How much?

(2) Wheat Germ Oil -
For the Vitamin E content as I am aging. Is taking this everyday the right thing to do? I am taking Udos oil also. Is this okay for my son? How much?

(3) Red Rasperry Leaf
Should I be taking this for post miscarriage? Should I keep on taking this until my next pregnancy in November and throughout? Is this going to affect my son? How much?

(4) Wild Yam -
This on top of Vitex? - I read only during ovulation until the next menses, is this now until November? - Is this bad for my son? - How much?

(5) Stinging Nettle -
Should I start now and continue to my next pregnancy? - Is this going to affect my son? - How much?

(6) Is there anything I can take beside Prodiem to help cleanse my colon and safe enough for breastfeeding and pregnancy?

(7) Should I be taking anything else for getting ready for a healthy pregnany and then during, which will not be bad for my son.

Honestly what a long list of questions, and I am sorry to burden you with such a terribly long list. I am compelled to ask you these questions though and hope you will be able to advise me.

I thank you again for your time Susun, and God Bless You.

Love
A.

 

A: Hello A., I hear your sadness AND your determination to have a successful pregnancy and birth. I also hear you have really been reading at the websites, and have many informed questions.

I am a student of Susun's and help with her correspondence. I can comment on some of your questions below:

After reading your website, I have come to the conclusion that I need to include the following in my diet:

(1) Vitex -
Firstly to shrink my fibroids. Is taking this for a long period harmful to my son? If it produces progesterone will I be able to conceive? Is this what I need to up my hormones or should I also take Wild Yam closer to conception? Am I able to take this in a herbal pill form? How much?

This sounds excellent; what I would have first recommended. You may have already read about this in this article by Susun about Fibroids. You will also see mention of the benefits of Vitex tincture in this article on Fertility After Forty - which answers your other questions about this herb as well.

Another important herbal ally for women over forty who desire a child is chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castii). It has been used in Africa and parts of Europe for several thousand years to discourage the male libido. In women, the effects seem to be the opposite! It may also be a fertility enhancer. Most importantly, chaste tree is a strengthening tonic for the pituitary gland, the master control gland for the endocrine system. Daily use of the tincture of the berries (1 dropperful/1 ml 2-3 times daily) had been shown to increase progesterone--the hormone of pregnancy--and luteinizing hormone--which promotes conception. Because it can lower prolactin levels, chaste tree is best discontinued during the last trimester of pregnancy.

(2) Wheat Germ Oil -
For the Vitamin E content as I am aging. Is taking this everyday the right thing to do? I am taking Udos oil also. Is this okay for my son? How much?

(3) Red Rasperry Leaf
Should I be taking this for post miscarriage? Should I keep on taking this until my next pregnancy in November and throughout? Is this going to affect my son? How much?

Red Raspberry leaf infusions are wonderful uterine tonics, both post miscarriage and before and during pregnancy to help strengthen your uterus. Drinking them is like eating nourishing foods, in fact, many of us find that this infusion is one of the first favorites of our young ones. My son began drinking infusions with me before one year old! You can sweeten (or not) and ice this for a summer iced tea, or in winter I like to add honey and milk to this warmed infusion (but didn't give honey to my son before 9 months old -some say wait a year).

(4) Wild Yam -
This on top of Vitex? - I read only during ovulation until the next menses, is this now until November? - Is this bad for my son? - How much?

(5) Stinging Nettle -
Should I start now and continue to my next pregnancy? - Is this going to affect my son - How much?

Nettle infusions, another wonderful infusion, so nourishing for people of all ages. Like above, drinking this is like eating healthful foods. I highly recommend it though pregnancy as well, even daily, especially in the last trimester for its vitamin K's blood-clotting assistance.

(6) Is there anything I can take beside Prodiem to help cleanse my colon and safe enough for breastfeeding and pregnancy?

I personally do not have any reason to believe that a colon ever needs to be cleansed. I hear you are concerned about constipation, and I do understand this. I find for myself and family that eating less refined products, drinking more infusions, like those mentioned above, and increasing cooked greens, all really help keep things flowing smoothly. I have also noticed that we each have our own rhythm, and rarely are our bowel movements daily, except when ill in the stomach.

(7) Should I be taking anything else for getting ready for a healthy pregnany and then during, which will not be bad for my son.

Comfrey leaf infusions might be very helpful! From the article "Fertility After Forty" mentioned above:

The single most important herb for pregnant women over forty is comfrey (Symphytum uplandica hybrids). The leaves of the mature plant contain an abundance of constituents beneficial to mother and babe, including generous amounts of minerals, alantoin, proteins, and many vitamins. The minerals in comfrey help insure healthy nervous system growth; the fetus's developing brain uses the proteins. And the alantoin helps the mother's tissues become stretchy and elastic... Regular use of the leaf infusion, at least a quart a week, promotes a safe delivery by:
~ strengthening uterine muscles and preparing them to work easily and well.
~ strengthening perineal tissues so they become resistant to tearing.
~ strengthening uterine ligaments so the uterus does not prolapse
~ strengthening the bladder and increasing resistance to bacterial infection.
~ strengthening the vagina and helping to promote an environment hostile to infection. ~ providing easily assimilated minerals to prevent eclampsia and other complications.
~ helping the bones of the pelvis flex and open during birth.
~ increasing iron in the blood and thus forestalling post-partum hemorrhage.

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Hi Karen Joy,

Its me again. I had a conversation with Susun and it was great talking to her, but I got so nervous and my brain turned off that I forgot to ask her for clarification so I am hoping you can help me out.

I would like to take Vitex (for a twofold reason, one to up my hormone level and two to shrink the fibroids) BUT I read in one of Susun's articles that too much progesterone (ie. in the Wild Yam form can prevent me from getting pregnant), is this then true for taking Vitex from now until I get pregnant in November? Too much Vitex can stop me from getting pregnant?

I am now drinking my infusions daily, alternating weekly from Red Rasperry Leaf and Nettle. Is this the way to do it?

I haven't started drinking Comfrey Leafs as the lady at the health food store scared me with its controversy in that is known to promote liver cancer? Is this true? Yikes, please if you can advise me and tell me how safe it is really.

Also should I take Red Clover infusion also? I'm not having trouble getting pregnant my problem is staying pregnant, and if Red Clover is a fertility enhancer do I need to?

Also Susun was telling me something about a miscarriage prevention tonicor recipe that she had in one of her books but since I got nervous and dumb at the same time I forgot which book or is it on the website?

Thank you Karen Joy for sending me all the information that you have to date. You can't possibly know how much you have helped me through this rough time.

Love and Light
A.

 

A: Hello A., I am so glad you are feeling cared for, and you were able to talk with Susun!

About Vitex and progesterone, it is my understanding that ultimately what Vitex really does is help nourish the endocrine system so we can produce the hormones we most need in the amounts we need them. Since it has been recommended, and used for long periods of time, for those with trouble conceiving, I would not feel concern it could decrease your chance of getting pregnant; instead I understand the opposite.

So wonderful you are drinking such nourishing herbal infusions! I generally encourage people to drink one infusion of one herb at a time, which you are doing. As far as how often you alternate them, this is up to your preferences. I generally alternate each day or couple days, depending on how fast I finish my quart or 1/2 gallon jar of it. Alternating every week is completely fine too.

I know there is much controversy over the comfrey issue and lots of fear around it now. What I have learned from Susun is that the comfrey that is sold is usually a hybrid comfrey and the leaves are free of the alkaloid that is of concern, pyrrolizidine alkaloid. This is in the roots though, so this is why we only drink infusions of the leaves. There are a couple instances where people had liver problems from too much pyrrolizidine alkaloid, though none that we know are from drinking the infusions of the leaves. There was consequently a test of the leaves of various comfreys across the country finding little or none of it in them. The popularized proof of this danger, as I understand, came from injecting rats with pure alkaloid that came from a different source even, one that had more of the alkaloid in it (http://www.greentit.com/comfrey.shtm). This is vastly different from drinking an infusion of the leaves. Susun has been recommending and drinking these infusions for many years with no ill effect, and none ever reported from her many students around the world who have done the same for years. I totally understand the concern, and encourage you to research as long as you feel you need to, and do what feels right. Certainly don't make yourself drink something if you are concerned it may harm you. As well, trust yourself if you feel drawn to comfrey leaf infusions and trusting of their health benefits.

You don't need to drink any infusions, just whatever you are drawn to. The four mentioned are the four Susun most recommends for anyone regardless of situation for general nourishing. Then some are encouraged more than others and/or in greater quantities, depending on the specific situation. Red Clover blossom infusions have benefit for most anyone, though as you point out may not be as needed in your situation as Red Raspberry, Comfrey or Nettle leaves. If you don't feel so drawn to them, and prefer to stick to the two or three, then I support you in doing just that.

Susun does have a miscarriage prevention brew recipe in her Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year. I am on the road working until the end of next week. I will save your email and send this recipe when I return to my library of books :)

You are welcome to continue to ask as you have questions, here and/or at the forum!

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Hello Karen Joy,

So nice of you to reply to me even though you are so busy.

I have to say I SIMPLY LOVE THE INFUSIONS. THEY MAKE ME FEEL GOOD. To my surprise my little picky 3 year old loves his iced nettle and rasberry leaf infusions, and so does my hubby.

Looking through the website I have come to the understanding that nettle everyday is a super good thing, but rasberry leaf is tonifying and I would probably use it now until through my next pregnancy.

I am hoping you can suggest more great infusions for me to share with my family everyday besides nettle? Is Red Clover a great everyday forever infusion for all? Since my little guy is so picky I have the satisfaction knowing he is getting so nourished.

Should I keep on the rasperry with them for the next year or so?

Since I am lactating any other great infusions for me, or is nettle and raspberry the thing for me?

Also I have noticed my hormones are all over the place, are any of these infusions going to help me balance me back? Or are we back to Vitex with that?

Thank you for saving the email and taking the time to send me the miscarriage brew.

I have noticed some great books with Ash Tree and am saving my pennies to stock up my library.

Karen Joy you are an angel, and god bless you.

Love and Light
A.

 

A: Hello again A., I hadn't realized these two emails were both from you! So wonderful you all are enjoying the infusions! The top herbs most often recommended for regular infusions as Nettle leaf, Oatstraw, Red Clover blossoms, Comfrey leaf, Mullein leaf, Red Raspberry leaf, and Linden blossoms. Though they strengthen us through time, they are all nourishing herbs. We often, though, alternate them for variety. This may help to with your child too.

The nourishing infusions will nourish you deeply over time, no doubt affecting change in the healthy functioning all around, hormones included :)

And now finally that I am home, the promised...

... from Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year by Susun Weed...

Threatened Miscarriage Brew
1 Tbsp. dried Black Haw root bark -OR- cramp bark
3 Tbsp. dried Raspberry leaves
10 drops Wild Yam root tincture
10 drops False Unicorn root tincture
60 drops Lobelia herb tincture

Put the dried herbs in a quart jar or four cup teapot and fill vessel to the top with boiling water. Steep until cool enough to drink. Add Wild Yam and False Unicorn tinctures to one cupful of tea and drink. If contractions continue for more than 30 minutes, add 60 drops of Lobelia tincture to a second cup of tea. Drink a cup of tea every three hours, adding tinctures as needed, until miscarriage no longer threatens.

Black Haw (and Cramp bark) sedates the uterus and can stop contractions and pain; its astringent, antispasmodic and tonic actions are best extracted in water, but you may substitute a teaspoon of the tincture in each cup of brew. Raspberry leaves are also best used in a water base, providing calcium to ease the uterine muscles and astringency to slow bleeding.

Wild Yam root contains hormonal precursors which assist the body in creating the hormones needed to hold a pregnancy; it is also an antispasmodic. False Unicorn is the herbalist's standard for dealing with threatened miscarriage; it is reported to have been successful even when hemorrhage and regular contractions have begun.

Lobelia tincture can cause profound relaxation of the uterus and the whole body if the dose is large enough. If the 60 drops recommended here does not have a relaxing effect, increase the dose; the action of Lobelia varies widely according to the preparation used and the individual using it. Burning in the throat and a mild, but exceedingly brief, nausea accompany use of Lobelia.

Increase the effectiveness of this brew by resting in bed and taking 500 IU of vitamin E every six hours.

You are welcome to ask all that you want. I am happy to help!

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

Completing a Miscarriage

Q: Dear Susun,

I've spend quite a bit of time researching this on the web and many times your name has popped up onto my screen. I am hoping you are willing to confirm what I have read to be true about completing a miscarriage with herbs.

I miscarried at 7 weeks, and bled for aprox 25 days. About a month passed and I began what I thought to be a period and am still bleeding. I began researching and asking questions last week after my midwife suggested an ultrasound which showed some "leftover" material in my uterus (which is didelphic). They are recommending a D&C which I do not wish to have. I fear that it will further compromise my already small uterus and possibly cause further miscarriage.

I began inquiring with a doula and another midwife who recommended I look into using Black and Blue Cohosh 20 drops each/hour. I started the Black on Sat, and will get the blue today, as no stores near me carry it. After 24 hours of cohosh, last night I suddenly soaked a pad and passed 2 large clots followed by another clot within 30 minutes. I haven't soaked but one pad, so fear of hemorrhage is not seeming eminent. I've felt okay, no fever, very little dizziness, etc. in this entire experience. I take Juice plus, cell forte, Carlson's fish oil, and immune support with folic acid daily.

My question is: since only one incident of heavy bleeding and clotting occurred with the use of Black Cohosh, do you feel that I may have emptied all of the leftover material in my uterus? Do you feel I need to begin the Blue Cohosh at this point? Is there anything else I might look into using?

I hope you will have a few moments to answer my questions. I am trying desperately to handle this holistically and my husband is getting  impatient and worried (poor guy!). I look forward to getting and reading some of you books after reading of you. I'm kind of in an emergent situation now and am hoping for some immediate advice; I understand that I'm asking a lot and hope you feel comfortable with assisting.

With gratitude,
G.

 

A: Hello G., thank you for writing. I understand the urgency of your situation and imagine a lot has happened between now and when you wrote this. Please let us know how you are doing.

Susun does not have internet in her home to be able to correspond through email, but offers free Tuesday night phone consultations from spring through fall.

At our online forum we have a section called "Wise Woman Birth Control." I have heard of others there talking about needing to complete a miscarriage before. Even if you wish not to post, you may benefit from reading through past posts.

I personally do not feel experienced enough to tell you through email if you have gotten all you need to get out. I do however favor at least trying to do so at home before a D&C, this depending of course on the urgency of the situation. It sounds like you know the signs to be looking for. I strongly encourage you, if you aren't already, to be increasing your iron intake for a while. I would not wait until symptoms arise to start this.

I feel for you and your husband and imagine this has been quite a journey. Please do let us know how you are doing and if there is any other way we can help!

Blessings,
Karen Joy
[email protected]
www.wisewomanweb.com

 

Q: Dear Karen,

Thank you so much for getting back to me. I will look into the groups you mentioned to soak in more experiences and wisdom from those of us who have been there. This experience, as difficult as it has been, has also been a gift in it's own right. I've come to know so much more about myself and how to heal. I've noticed some signs of possible anemia, so I purchased lots of celery and spinach to juice for the next weeks. Looking forward to re-gaining my energy and balance.

I came across some Pennyroyal essential oils today and began using that. The gentleman who sold it to me suggested i begin only with 1 drop twice/day. I understand this is very strong, yet has been known to be the most effective herb to assist a miscarriage completion. I will look on the groups for info, but if you happen to know of any resources that I may look at, please forward them at your convenience. I'll also try to call Susun on Tuesday.

Again, thank you so very much for your encouragement and information.

Kindest regards,
G.

 

A: Hi G., I am glad you will make use of all those resources and that your are attending to your nutrition needs. In Susun's book Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year, she writes a little about "Completing a Miscarriage":

"To complete a miscarriage, 1) have an experienced and skilled assistant with you, 2) have herbs which control bleeding on hand, and 3) use 20 drops each of Blue and Black Cohosh tinctures every hour to empty the uterus. Do not exceed five doses.

"To control bleeding, use 10-20 drops of Shepherd's Purse tincture or Witch Hazel tincture (not drugstore variety) under the tongue as often as > needed."

If you wish to share I would love to hear how things are going for you! All my best wishes.

Blessings,
Karen Joy

 

 

Q: Dear Karen, Thank you so much for your genuine interest. It feels so good to be surrounded by the many wonderful women in my life...even those who I've never met face to face.

I'm okay, but things are not moving. I've been taking the black and blue cohosh about 4 times /day. I will try doing it hourly on Tuesday. I unfortunately will attend my grandmother's funeral tomorrow, so I would rather not be focused on herbs and my uterus tomorrow.

I'm doing a great deal of juicing to try to keep my health in tact. Spinach and celery will rebuild my iron, which I suspect is low.

I'll write you again later in the week, and again, please accept my deep gratitude for your interest and assistance.

Best, G.

 

A: I look forward to hearing from you later this week G. I am thinking of you today and hope things are well. My condolences on your loss of your grandmother. I wish I were more experienced on the effectiveness and safety of using herbs for completing a miscarriage. I do feel concern always, and set back to trust your wisdom. All I can do is pass on book knowledge on this, and of course offer my care.

love,
Karen Joy
[email protected]

 

Q: Hi Karen,
I wanted to let you know that all of the herbs worked and the last "spot" in my uterus is gone! I had agreed with my doctor a few weeks ago that if it didn't show clear that I would get the D&C to avoid calcification and infection, but obviously didn't need it. Thanks again for all of your support and guidance. I am greatly appreciative you.

Best, G.

 

A: Thank you SO much for the update Gwen. I am so happy to hear you are doing well.... All my best!!!

Blessings,
Karen Joy