Unfortunately, the endocrine disrupting chemicals which are found to impede the function of our endocrine systems are found everywhere, from the water we drink to the cosmetic products we put on our bodies.
Hormone balance is of utmost importance since hormones are what the body uses as communication system to manage bodily organs and processes. Toxic and environmental burden has the most significant effect on five hormones: insulin, estrogen, thyroid hormone, cortisol, and dihydrotestosterone.
5 Hormone Imbalances
1. Insulin
Insulin keeps the sugar levels in check and too much of it can cause insulin resistance, which leads to poor metabolism and imbalance of other hormones. Given that insulin is one of the key hormones, the fact that its imbalance compromises other hormones doesn’t come as surprise.
2. Estrogen
Estrogen is primary female sex hormone. Too much estrogen leads to symptoms like infertility, irregular periods, breast tenderness, and bloating. It has been scientifically shown that toxic burden slows down the metabolism of estrogen.
3. Thyroid
Thyroid hormone is responsible for different vital functions, from controlling growth to controlling the rate at which the body burns fuel. Lack of thyroid hormone leads to fatigue, bowel irregularity, weight gain, and brittle nails and hair.
4. Cortisol
Cortisone, known as the stress hormone, causes uncomfortable symptoms when there is too much or too little. For instance, overproduction leads to weight gain, fatigue, and increase in blood sugar levels while lack of cortisol leads to poor immunity, cravings, and inability to exercise.
5. Dihydrotestosterone
This hormone is the most powerful form of testosterone and when in excess it may lead to acne, prostate enlargement, baldness, and male-patterned hair growth in women.
How Stinging Nettle Can Help You Balance Hormones
Many studies done on Stinging Nettle and its hormone-balancing properties show that its works as moderate aromatase and reductase inhibitor. In other words, it slows down the enzymes which turn testosterone into estrogen and dihydrotestosterone, supporting PCOS, amenorrhea, prostate enlargement, and acne.
Although further research needs to be done on the topic, Stinging Nettle is also believed to improve insulin resistance, relieve water retention, lower blood sugar, stimulate hair growth, and relieve other symptoms of hormone imbalances.
The Hormone-Balancing Drink
Ingredients:
- 1 liter water
- Dried loose nettle leaves
- Large glass container with lid
Instructions:
- Bring the water to boil in a large pot
- Pour the boiled water over half cup of dried nettle leaves in glass container
- Cover the container and let it infuse for 4-10 hours, preferably overnight
- Drink liter of the tea during the day. Feel free to reheat it or mix it with milk, almond, or honey
source: http://naturalmedicinehouse.com
