Which natural endocrine health supplements address the most common hormone-related problems?
Hormone dysfunction can often cause endocrine disorders or a variety of symptoms. Here is Supersmart’s list of the most common of these problems and the natural ways of either treating them or of complementing primary treatments.
Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland, situated below the Adam’s apple, produces insufficient hormones. Prevalence increases with age, with around 10% of over-60s affected. Most people with hypothyroidism need hormone replacement therapy but alternative approaches (selenium, iodine, tiratricol) are also useful, especially for those with borderline conditions.
Other issues that hormone balance supplements can help relieve
Menopause: Part of the natural ageing process, the menopause results in decreased oestrogen levels, characterised by symptoms such as hot flushes, vaginal dryness and weight gain, as well as over-production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Several natural products have demonstrated benefits in this area including chasteberry extract, commiphora mukul, withania somnifera, and asparagus racemosus.
Male sexual dysfunction: This may be related to androgen deficiency – a hormonal problem involving decreased production of the androgen hormones (part of the testosterone family) essential for stimulating desire, excitement and erections. In ageing, this may also be linked to aromatisation - the conversion of testosterone into oestrogen by the enzyme aromatase. Natural products including Tribulus Terrestris, Tongkat Ali and Maca appear to raise testosterone levels, increase libido and promote spermatogenesis, while ginseng may improve erectile dysfunction.