Herbal Medicine for Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids affect up to 70% of women by age 50, causing heavy periods, pelvic pain and pressure symptoms. Herbal medicine addresses the oestrogen dominance, impaired liver detoxification and inflammatory environment that drive fibroid growth — slowing progression and reducing symptoms.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are benign uterine tumours driven by oestrogen and progesterone. Key drivers include oestrogen dominance (excess oestrogen relative to progesterone), impaired hepatic oestrogen metabolism, gut dysbiosis (which recirculates oestrogens via the oestrobolome), insulin resistance, and chronic inflammation. Herbal medicine targets all of these mechanisms.
How Herbal Medicine Supports Fibroid Management
Oestrogen Metabolism
Liver-supporting and DIM-providing herbs improve the breakdown and elimination of excess oestrogen.
Anti-proliferative
Specific herbs inhibit oestrogen-driven fibroid cell proliferation.
Heavy Bleeding
Astringent herbs reduce the heavy menstrual bleeding caused by submucosal fibroids.
Inflammation Reduction
Anti-inflammatory herbs reduce the cytokine environment that promotes fibroid growth.
Key Herbs Used
- Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus) — Modulates LH and supports progesterone to counteract the oestrogen dominance driving fibroids.
- Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) — Supports hepatic oestrogen detoxification — essential for reducing circulating oestrogen.
- Shepherd’s Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) — Astringent haemostatic herb that reduces heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Green Tea Extract (Camellia sinensis) — EGCG in green tea has demonstrated anti-proliferative effects on fibroid cells in clinical trials.
What to Expect
Hormonal Assessment
A review of your cycle, fibroid size and location, oestrogen/progesterone levels and symptom severity.
Oestrogen Reduction Protocol
A comprehensive approach to reducing circulating oestrogen through liver, gut and dietary support.
Symptom Management
Herbs specifically targeting your heaviest symptoms — bleeding, pain or pressure.
Monitoring & Review
Regular symptom reviews; ultrasonography monitoring recommended every 6–12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can herbal medicine shrink fibroids?
Herbal medicine is unlikely to significantly shrink fibroids but can slow growth, reduce symptoms and delay or avoid surgery.
Can it reduce heavy periods from fibroids?
Yes — astringent and haemostatic herbs significantly reduce heavy menstrual bleeding.
How long does treatment take?
A minimum of 3–6 months is recommended for meaningful hormonal rebalancing.
Should I have surgery?
This depends on fibroid size, location and your symptoms. Herbal treatment is most appropriate for mild-to-moderate cases.
References
- Roshdy E et al. (2013). Treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids with green tea extract. International Journal of Women’s Health, 5, 477–486.
- Tinelli A et al. (2012). Uterine fibroids and diet. International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, 117(1), 14–16.
Manage Your Fibroids Naturally
Book a women’s health consultation with one of our specialist herbalists today.
Book a Free Discovery CallDisclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Herbal medicine should not replace treatment recommended by a qualified medical professional. Always consult your GP before making changes to your medication or treatment plan. The practitioners at Paean Therapy are registered with the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH).
