In addition, clinical research shows that the herb red clover is a rich source of essential body nutrients like calcium, thiamine, niacin, potassium, and vitamin C. Red clover is beneficial for women suffering from PMS or from symptoms of menopause such as hot flushes, vaginal dryness and night sweating, which are all indicators of lowered estrogen levels in the bloodstream.

These flowers are handpicked from red clover plants in the Himalayas. Prepare a red clover tisane to enjoy its pleasant and soothing flavor while gaining rich health benefits. This natural herb with its anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and immunity-building effects plays a major role in combating many women health issues including stress, mood swings, PMS and menopause-period symptoms like hot flashes, night sweating and heightened anxiety, depression, etc.

Its active ingredients steroidal alkaloids and steroidal lactones are important fertility hormone precursors and stimulate blood flow to reproductive organs. Ashwagandha is proven through research to multi-task in helping the following women-specific health conditions Increase arousal and sex drive Help in countering menopause symptoms like anxiety, decreased libido, etc.

Nettle Leaf: Nettle leaf offers tremendous health benefits for both men and women. Research shows its immensely potent effect in the treatment of allergies, urinary problems, and skin ailments.

The leaves, root, and stems of this plant offer powerful diuretic and antioxidant properties. Some of the best-known uses of nettle leaf in supporting female health include: Regular consumption of nettle leaf tea aided effective resolution of urinary tract infections that are quite common among women.

Nettle leaf is very beneficial in maintaining the general health of the urinary system. Elevated creatinine levels are often indicative of kidney disease. Nettle leaf, especially Nettle leaf tea, helps control creatinine levels in the bloodstream. In pregnant and lactating mothers, nettle leaf provides a rich source of Vitamin K and helps in increasing milk production.

Research shows that eight of every 10 women suffer from anemia. Nettle leaf, being a rich source of iron, helps in maintaining the hemoglobin count in the bloodstream.

The anti-oxidizing properties of nettle leaf are useful in the treatment of PCOS and PMS through the stabilization of hormonal imbalances. Chamomile is an effective treatment for stress, sleep apnea or insomnia and similar conditions.

It offers a natural herbal remedy to women suffering from PMS and irregular menstrual cycles by regulating the menstrual cycle. Its anti-spasmodic quality helps in relieving menstrual cramps. Chamomile can alleviate stress-related health disorders and offer a stress-free and healthy life.

This herb has a sweet, grassy flavor and can be consumed as a tea or tisane concoction just before bedtime for deep and relaxing sleep. Shatavari: Herbalists have traditionally used Shatavari to maintain good female health for ages.

This herb has a balancing effect on the fertility hormones in women and helps maintain physical activeness and improve sex drive. Research has shown its effectiveness in managing fertility in women, in alleviating symptoms of PMS and in the repair of damaged vaginal tissues as well.

This natural herb is dried and ground into a powder and traditionally consumed with lukewarm milk at bedtime for best effect.

Treatment and management of stress and its manifest disorders like PMS are essential for good living. The Premier Course on Herbal Medicine. YES, I NEED THIS. It's time we learn about the root of disease. Millions of women suffer from endometriosis, fibroids, PMS, and menopausal problems.

Chronic disease rates are increasing in women at a rapid rate, with women now as likely or more likely to have heart attacks than men! More and more medications are known to have harmful side effects — and most of the drugs on the market have not even been tested on women.

Something needs to be done! Be part of the solution. JOIN NOW. My mission is to help women flourish. My 5 favorite herbs for women. Learn More. Watch a free sample lesson video. Enjoy this video on organizing a client plan from Unit 1 of Herbal Medicine for Women.

Watch Now. Read a free sample lesson. Enjoy this lesson on Transformational Healing from Unit 1 of Herbal Medicine for Women. Read Now. Download HMW curriculum. Get a head start and see the lessons provided in this 4 unit course.

Download Now. Women need safe, natural, affordable alternatives to current medical treatments for common health problems. This course will help you to:. Take back your health; take responsibility for your own wellness. Recognize, listen to, and trust your body knowledge and help others learn to do the same.

Let go of fear created by a disease-based medical model and embrace a woman-centered approach to healing. Learn to bring functional medicine and nutrition into your practice. Deepen your connection to the Earth and learn how natural rhythms influence health. Enhance your professional clinical practice.

Clarify your personal path practitioner, teacher, writer, medicine-maker, entrepreneur Deepen your awareness and understanding of the psychoemotional and spiritual influences on health. I Want to Join! A Apply integrative and functional medicine techniques to enhance client success and grow your business.

H Help yourself, the women in your life, and your clients or patients ACHIEVE OPTIMAL WELLNESS. Core Course Topics. Health Conditions Faced by Women From Menarche Through Menopause. Materia Medica, Herbal Formulation, and Prescribing For Women's Health. Each clinical lesson provides you with multi-media in-depth discussions of the condition being reviewed: the role of lifestyle, mind-body approaches, and nutrition in prevention and treatment the signs and symptoms of the condition, pathophysiology the pros and cons of conventional treatments, risk factors and when to seek medical care and extensive, detailed case reviews that teach you how Aviva approaches botanical strategies for treatment with guidance that will allows you to learn how to do this successfully and effectively.

Yes, I Need This! What Students Receive. You will receive the highest quality, beautifully presented materials, personal instruction, and regular communication with Aviva and other students.

All Students Receive 4 Print-Ready PDF Coursebooks 50 lessons. Foundations in Botanical Medicine for Women. Herbs for Gynecologic and Menstrual Health. Herbs for Childbearing Women.

Herbs for the Wisdom Years. Multi-media and on-line resources. Botanica: The Herbal Medicine for Women Newsletter archives of all past editions Video to accompany lessons including case reviews, detailed explanations of complex topics such as PCOS and hormonal feedback loops, herb walks, medicine making and formulating.

This is a huge cost savings with access to thousands of dollars worth of conference lectures! Read More. Continuing Education Credit. Oregon Board of Naturopathic Examiners, Provider PDP-HMW - up to hours — 30 of which can be used for OB California Acupuncture Board, up to 50 Category 1 credits.

Provider Commission on Dietetic Registration: up to credits In addition, some professional associations may accept earned credits toward recertification even though Herbal Medicine for Women is not specifically approved by them as a provider of continuing education. Interestingly, the Latin name for Fenugreek Trigonella foenum-graecum means "Greek hay" because the plant was a nutritious addition to cattle feed due to its high nutrient content.

People have enjoyed using Fenugreek seeds in traditional medicine and cuisine for centuries. The seeds have a distinct smell, often described as having a faintly sweet aroma, like maple syrup.

This unique smell has made Fenugreek seeds a popular ingredient in maple-flavored foods, such as baked goods and syrups. The seeds contain soluble fiber that may help support healthy cholesterol absorption in the bloodstream.

One of the most well-known uses of Fenugreek is to support the optimal production of breast milk in nursing mothers. This is due to compounds in the seeds that support milk production , including phytoestrogens and galactagogues. While this is the traditional use of Fenugreek, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider before using it to support lactation.

Maca Lepidium meyenii is a knobby root vegetable that resembles a turnip, a relative of this native Peruvian plant.

This hardy adaptogenic herb grows best in the harsh environment of the high Andes, where the Inca warriors used it as a caffeine-free performance enhancer. Traditional medicine has used maca root for centuries, particularly in the Andean region, to soothe various health issues.

Recent research has shown that it may support natural fertility by helping to maintain normal reproductive hormone levels. REF In women, Maca may support healthy levels of luteinizing hormone LH , follicle-stimulating hormone FSH , and estrogen , which are important for healthy reproductive function.

It has a delicious, somewhat nutty taste, and Maca Powder , the powdered form of this herb, can be added to smoothies, juice, or oatmeal, making it a convenient way to add its nutritional benefits to your diet.

In addition, there are also Maca root pills. Red Clover Trifolium pratense is a highly versatile and nutritious herb that has long supported women's health.

REF It is an excellent choice for supporting women's health during menopause. It is a rich source of naturally occurring phytoestrogens that help support healthy estrogen levels in women to support uterine and ovarian health.

REF Red Clover also encourages detoxification, promotes healthy skin, and supports the body's lymphatic functions. Native to North America, Red Clover has since spread across Europe and into the Far East and has a rich history of use in Russian and Chinese herbalism. Red Clover's highly nutritious properties continue to make it a popular food for grazing livestock.

Its wide range of benefits makes it a valuable addition to any natural health routine. Supports female hormone production and balance, especially during the transitions of life. Vitex Vitex agnus-castus is also called Chaste Tree.

Its Latin name means "chaste lamb," and in ancient times, its leaves were strewn at the feet of clergy to keep them as the plant's name implies! Healthy hormone levels are necessary for physical and emotional well-being.

This herb's berries promote a healthy mind and body throughout the menstrual cycle and during the transition into menopause. Raspberry Leaf Rubus idaeus is a perennial shrub that grows natively in Europe and Asia.

This herb is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C and E, calcium, and magnesium, which are essential for healthy reproductive function. Raspberry Leaf is also known for its ability to support a strong and toned uterus, which may help women during childbirth.

REF Midwives often recommend Raspberry Leaf to support normal labor and delivery, minimzie the need for interventions during childbirth, and support a healthy recovery after giving birth. REF Controlled trials are needed to verify these claims further. Raspberry Leaf has a slightly sweet and earthy flavor, and it can be brewed as tea or added to smoothies.

It is also available in supplement form, including capsules and tinctures. Supports healthy stress response, hormone balance, and reproductive health in females. Ashwagandha Withania somnifera is a versatile herb used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Its adaptogenic properties make it a popular choice among those looking to support their body's natural stress response.

Ashwagandha may help support healthy thyroid function by balancing TSH levels and improving T4 levels. REF Additionally, it may help support a healthy immune system by promoting healthy levels of white blood cells.

One of the most notable benefits of Ashwagandha is its ability to support healthy cortisol levels. REF Cortisol is a hormone that plays a key role in the body's stress response, and when cortisol levels are chronically high, it can lead to negative health effects.

And if we were to empower women to take back some of the healing skills they held traditionally, they would surely hand this knowledge on to their children.

Medical herbalists are the only non-medical practitioners legally allowed to diagnose. A consultation is usually an hour long and involves taking a full medical history, including diet and lifestyle. This enables the practitioner to identify issues that contribute to the illness and to prescribe a combination of herbs, usually in the form of alcohol extracts or teas specifically made up for that person.

Advice on diet and lifestyle factors would be offered too, so the person understands what they can do to support the body to function better. In my practice I see a wide range of conditions, but significantly more women than men, and many have health problems specific to women.

My consultations, rather than focusing on a herbal prescription in the short term, are always geared towards helping people understand how to incorporate into their daily lives what their body needs in the long term.

You can find your local qualified herbalist through the National Institute of Medical Herbalists or the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy. Many herbalists run short courses, walks and workshops for people who want to know more.

Mainstream information about herbs tends to focus on specific herbs for particular ailments. However, I learned from a system of medicine called endobiogenics that when a disease arises, it does so because the body lacks what it needs to function in a balanced way.

It could be something environmental, emotional, nutritional or something that was missing during a normal developmental phase. Though the body may be able to adapt in the short term, subsequently as tissues become over-stimulated or congested, and excess hormones or wastes accumulate or nutrients essential for normal functioning and repair are depleted, a disease state may develop.

As endobiogenics sees it, allopathic medication interrupts this functional adaptation, and unless the original problem is addressed the body will find another adaptive route. This may manifest as a side-effect of the drug prescribed.

Although everyone is unique in the way their body adapts, certain patterns can be grouped together. These are largely the kinds of pattern described in traditional systems of healing, for instance Chinese and humoral galenic medicine, and ayurveda.

Medicinal plants work in three main ways to restore balance to a system that is going through this process of functionally adapting:. Medicinal herbs are generally very safe and well tolerated. There are some exceptions where interactions are an issue.

For instance, some herbs heighten the effect of an biochemical pathway involving cytochrome P, an enzyme that accelerates the breakdown and elimination of some medications.

Herbs with this action can theoretically reduce the effectiveness of prescription medications, such as the contraceptive pill or anti-coagulants. But on the whole herbs are safe, affordable and easy enough to wildcraft and grow.

It is important to be sure of correct identification of course; a good medicinal or botanical plant guide is essential and any herb you buy should come from a reputable supplier. But many common medicinal plants do grow in the British countryside or can be easily cultivated even in a small garden or outside area.

They can be used fresh or collected and preserved by juicing and freezing, drying for infusions, in alcohol for tinctures, with sugar or honey for syrups, and macerated in vinegars or in oil. I have found that many common female health problems can be helped with a few herbs and some dietary changes.

In my experience, with a little knowledge medication may be avoided, reduced or withdrawn by using simple herbs for self-treatment at home. I explain to my patients that the most powerful agent of self-care is a nourishing diet. If the body has all the building blocks it requires it will be better able to adapt to whatever life throws at it.

The level of wheat consumption is very high in modern western diets. I believe this impacts on gut health and hormone levels and that the effect accumulates. So I encourage my patients not to rely on wheat as a staple part of their diet, and over time I guide them toward making sourdough breads and pre-soaking organic grains and legumes so the nutrients become more bio-available.

These selective estrogen receptor modulators or SERMS are very similar in chemical structure to endogenous oestrogens but much weaker in action. So in conditions where there is oestrogen dominance usually because of poor elimination , eg premenstrual syndrome, they compete for receptor sites and exert a weak effect.

In conditions with low oestrogen levels, eg menopause, they provide some oestrogenic effect when there would otherwise be none. Many studies have tried to clarify whether SERMs increase the risk of developing oestrogen-sensitive breast cancers.

Typically their conclusions are mixed, because cancers are still poorly understood and their aetiology is so multifactorial. Yet many phyto-oestrogen-rich foods are a frequently consumed staple in many indigenous diets where as far as I have been able to discover rates of breast or other oestrogen-dominant cancers are not unexpectedly high.

This suggests to me that a plant-based diet high in nuts, seeds and appropriately prepared legumes is more supportive to health than one relying heavily on pre-prepared and refined foods contaminated with chemicals.

Excess oestrogen is known to play a part in the development of breast cancers and fibroids. There is increasing concern about the effects of exogenous environment oestrogens such as bisphenols from plastics.

Brassicas broccoli, cabbage, kale, cauliflower etc are known to promote the conjugation of oestrogen, thereby enabling elimination of any excess Zeligs, Their inclusion in the daily diet may help sustain health.

Some women suffer debilitating symptoms that may significantly effect daily life. Hot sweats and flushes are a frequent cause of distress, disturbed sleep and poor concentration. Sage can be very effective for reducing sweats because of its drying action.

It was traditionally considered to be oestrogenic. It has also been shown to improve memory. It can be used fresh or dried or as a tincture up to three times a day. If used as an infusion it is best taken cold. Heavy menstruation is frequently medicated with the contraceptive pill.

Causes include anaemia which causes heavy periods and is a complication of them , thyroid problems, fibroids, peri-menopause and endometriosis. Less commonly it may be caused by cancers or as a side-effect from anticoagulant medications.

In herbal medicine oestrogen dominance is thought to cause a thicker endometrial layer to form during the cycle possibly because the liver is not breaking down and eliminating oestrogen efficiently from the body.

I recommend daily brassicas in the diet to boost elimination. The herb ladies mantle is an astringent herb traditionally thought to be progestrogenic. Its toning action is used to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. Nettles are styptic and rich in many vitamins and minerals including vitamin C and iron.

Roses are cooling, astringent and mildly bitter so may reduce bleeding and pelvic congestion, and promote liver function. I use them to help women create healthy boundaries and better self-care when they are overstretched emotionally.

These three herbs make a pleasant-tasting herbal infusion. They grow prolifically and can be easily harvested in large amounts, for drying and storing for daily use throughout the year.

Premenstrual syndrome is an umbrella term used to cover many symptoms including breast tenderness, bloating, mood swings and food cravings. From a herbalist perspective it too is usually due to poor elimination of oestrogens and exposure to exogenous environmental oestrogens.

Again a diet rich in phyto-oestrogens and brassicas is beneficial. Including bitter herbs in the diet will also promote liver function and help offload oestrogen. If breast tenderness is an issue, dandelion root can be gently roasted and drunk as a pleasant tasting coffee substitute that supports the liver and kidneys and has diuretic effects that reduce bloating.

Caffeine aggravates breast tenderness. All the bitter salad leaves and citrus fruits like lemon zest and grapefruit can have a positive effect on liver function. Congestive dysmenorrhea occurs in the days leading up to menstruation and stops when bleeding commences. Congestive pain is due to poor pelvic blood flow which may have its roots in other system imbalances.

A simple approach is to treat the liver using bitter foods, as above, and to promote the flow of blood through the pelvis using warming aromatic spices like cinnamon and ginger.

A common meadow herb called yarrow contains antiinflammatory compounds and is used to open up the circulation and regulate blood flow. Spasmodic dysmenorrhea is felt when bleeding starts. It involves an imbalance in prostaglandins and can often be rectified within one cycle simply by the addition of good quality omega 3 fats to the diet.

Tinned sardines and mackerel are a cheap and sustainable source of these fats and can be added to the diet three times a week. Cramps can occur when the body needs more magnesium. Magnesium is required in large amounts to metabolise a high carbohydrate diet, but phytates in grains bind to magnesium and impair its absorption www.

Magnesium is present in high levels in cocoa: a good excuse to indulge in some pre-menstrual, highquality, dark chocolate! Raspberry leaf is a gentle uterine tonic that can be drunk as a pleasant-tasting tea three times a day in the two weeks leading up to menstruation to ease cramps.

Add a little fresh grated ginger or a pinch of cayenne powder for its warming anti-spasmodic effects. Feverfew is another herb containing compounds that regulate inflammatory prostaglandins. It is an easy plant to grow in the garden or a pot and best taken as a fresh leaf each day, rolled up and swallowed down with plenty of water like a little pill.

Some people are sensitive to it and get little blisters in their mouth if they chew it so swallowing whole is best, or make a tincture of the whole flowering herb: macerate in vodka, chop the herb finely, press into a jar and cover with the alcohol. Leave to soak for two weeks then press and bottle.

Take a teaspoon in a little water, twice a day. This herb is also excellent for preventing hormonal headaches and migraines. Cystitis causes misery for many women. It can be simply treated at home. It is essential to cut out drinks like fruit juices. Even the standard cranberry juice is full of sugar that feed the bacteria.

A cranberry extract supplement can be useful however, as it prevents the bacteria adhering to the bladder wall. Cut out carbonated drinks, tea and coffee and drink plenty of fresh water.

Make a large pot of herbal tea blending together thyme either fresh or dried for its anti-bacterial properties, couch grass roots for their soothing, anti-inflammatory qualities and goldenrod herb for its bitter tonic and diuretic effects. Drink this freely throughout the day.

A litre would be a good therapeutic quantity, made with 10g of herbs. Place the barley, water, cinnamon stick and some grated ginger into a pan and simmer for 20 minutes. If you have organic unwaxed lemons you can simmer the peel for the final five minutes which intensifies the taste.

After cooling, strain the mixture and finally add fresh lemon juice for extra flavour. Store in a cool place and drink between one and three cups daily, diluted to your taste if necessary. Stress, anxiety and mental load.

The modern world puts an enormous expectation on women to work and manage home and family life, often with little support. The pressures of family life are greater than ever and women usually bear the emotional load for everyone.

Since busyness is a modern disease, it is essential to put aside personal time to rest and recharge. Be part of the solution.

JOIN NOW. My mission is to help women flourish. My 5 favorite herbs for women. Learn More. Watch a free sample lesson video. Enjoy this video on organizing a client plan from Unit 1 of Herbal Medicine for Women. Watch Now. Read a free sample lesson. Enjoy this lesson on Transformational Healing from Unit 1 of Herbal Medicine for Women.

Read Now. Download HMW curriculum. Get a head start and see the lessons provided in this 4 unit course. Download Now. Women need safe, natural, affordable alternatives to current medical treatments for common health problems. This course will help you to:. Take back your health; take responsibility for your own wellness.

Recognize, listen to, and trust your body knowledge and help others learn to do the same. Let go of fear created by a disease-based medical model and embrace a woman-centered approach to healing. Learn to bring functional medicine and nutrition into your practice.

Deepen your connection to the Earth and learn how natural rhythms influence health. Enhance your professional clinical practice. Clarify your personal path practitioner, teacher, writer, medicine-maker, entrepreneur Deepen your awareness and understanding of the psychoemotional and spiritual influences on health.

I Want to Join! A Apply integrative and functional medicine techniques to enhance client success and grow your business. H Help yourself, the women in your life, and your clients or patients ACHIEVE OPTIMAL WELLNESS. Core Course Topics. Health Conditions Faced by Women From Menarche Through Menopause.

Materia Medica, Herbal Formulation, and Prescribing For Women's Health. Each clinical lesson provides you with multi-media in-depth discussions of the condition being reviewed: the role of lifestyle, mind-body approaches, and nutrition in prevention and treatment the signs and symptoms of the condition, pathophysiology the pros and cons of conventional treatments, risk factors and when to seek medical care and extensive, detailed case reviews that teach you how Aviva approaches botanical strategies for treatment with guidance that will allows you to learn how to do this successfully and effectively.

Yes, I Need This! What Students Receive. You will receive the highest quality, beautifully presented materials, personal instruction, and regular communication with Aviva and other students.

All Students Receive 4 Print-Ready PDF Coursebooks 50 lessons. Foundations in Botanical Medicine for Women. Herbs for Gynecologic and Menstrual Health. Herbs for Childbearing Women. Herbs for the Wisdom Years. Multi-media and on-line resources.

Botanica: The Herbal Medicine for Women Newsletter archives of all past editions Video to accompany lessons including case reviews, detailed explanations of complex topics such as PCOS and hormonal feedback loops, herb walks, medicine making and formulating.

This is a huge cost savings with access to thousands of dollars worth of conference lectures! Read More. Continuing Education Credit. Oregon Board of Naturopathic Examiners, Provider PDP-HMW - up to hours — 30 of which can be used for OB California Acupuncture Board, up to 50 Category 1 credits.

Provider Commission on Dietetic Registration: up to credits In addition, some professional associations may accept earned credits toward recertification even though Herbal Medicine for Women is not specifically approved by them as a provider of continuing education.

Great Discounts. Ongoing email interaction with Aviva Unlimited access to the HMW private Facebook page Lifetime access to all of the archives available to students, including newly posted audio and video materials.

Payment Plan. Study Groups. What Students Are Saying. I am loving the content of the course …! I can already see my skills are changing and improving… My own vision and focus for my path is becoming more clear and focused.

When I signed up I had no idea how comprehensive this course would be — it has added so much to my comprehension and confidence. This course has reinforced my inner passion for herbs and greatly expanded my knowledge about them. I absolutely love it! It speaks directly to my heart and this way of being.

Gratitude for your generosity, information, energy, and passion. l Thyroid Revolution mastermind. I found the information actionable and I loved your content.

I could not believe how three hours flew by. I could've done another three hours. I look forward to many more workshops with you. This course is SO much more than herbs for women. The wealth of information and your virtual support gives me confidence in my own ability to become a competent provider for my community.

All that to say, I am blessed — and blissed — to be a part of this group of wise women! Although I am an easily distracted person who has often times requires one-on-one interaction with an instructor, I have had no regret with going outside of my comfort zone and taking this course.

Quite honestly, the course is superior to anything I have seen. I also think that for those who desire to be practitioners for all ages and genders would be able to provide much better care with this program under their belt.

I am enrolled in this course and am loving everything in it. I am homeschooling mom of 6 and an herbalist who works from home. It is totally doable even with our busy lives.

It is at your own pace, but the recommended time for completion is 18 months or more, I believe. I find myself re-reading each lesson multiple times to really solidify what I am learning.

I would suggest setting a time that is your study time and honoring that habit. That way you are able to fit it in. I have been out of my groove of study time and am reimplementing it this week!

You will love it! I have to tell you that being able to participate in this phase of this course for which I signed up YEARS ago. It is an absolute soul salve.