PCOD (Polycystic ovary disease) and PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome) are common medical conditions affecting many women. These conditions are caused by hormonal imbalance in our bodies, which can be a result of both lifestyle and genetics.
As of now there seems to be no permanent cure, but it can be managed and controlled. And I know how living with PCOS and PCOD may feel like. It can be challenging and frustrating as it interferes with our daily lives and makes our period or menstrual cycle difficult.
There are lots of medications available to regulate hormones and manage PCOS and PCOD symptoms and condition, but most of these medications have side effects when used for an extended period and tend to be expensive. However, there is an old saying that sometimes all we need to heal ourselves can be found in nature and at homes, we just need to look for them. Fortunately, there are some natural remedies that can help control these conditions with no side effects.
Here are some of home remedies that has helped me to deal with it.
- Flaxseed — These tiny seeds contain Omega 3, which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to lower the level of androgen hormones in our bodies. One can try flaxseed smoothies, made by either blending with coconut milk or almond milk.
- Ceylon cinnamon — This spice is packed with antioxidants that help to control blood sugar levels in the body, which in turn can control the production of male hormones. To make cinnamon tea, boil some cinnamon sticks and squeeze little bit of lemon into it and sip it in the morning.
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Turmeric with black pepper — Turmeric contains curcumin which helps to control blood sugar levels. Pour some turmeric in water and boil it, add a small amount of black pepper to this boiling solution and drink it. Black pepper helps in better absorption of curcumin in the body.
- Vitamin D — Vitamin D decreases the inflammation in the body and is often deficient in women suffering from PCOD and PCOS. To boost your vitamin D intake, you can eat foods like salmon and eggs as well as drink plenty of plant-base milk.
- Ashwagandha — This herb is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, helps with PCOD and PCOS by lowering cortisol levels in the body and reducing stress. One can prepare an ashwagandha mixture by combining it with warm water.
- Fermented foods — Probiotics in these foods helps with digestion and body inflammation and can be found in foods like yogurt, kombucha and kimchi.
- Exercise — As PCOD and PCOS are associated with obesity, regular exercise helps control hormones, lower insulin resistance, and manage these conditions.
- Avoid using regular pads — Regular pads have dioxin and phthalates which mess up with our hormones and upset the endocrine system. One thing that can help with it, is switching to sanitary pads which are free from such chemicals.
While home remedies have their perks, but seeking a medical professional should always come first. Consult a healthcare provider for better understanding of the condition. These remedies are more of a self-indulgent and healthy approach.
