-IBIS-1.7.6-
tx
reproductive system
Endometriosis
Integrative Therapies
Home Care
Endometriosis occurs when cells from the uterus lining attach to other places such as the fallopian tubes and the ovaries. During menstruation, these cells tend to accumulate since they cannot pass out of the body with the rest of the menstrual flow. This can cause severe pain in the pelvic area during menstruation and sexual intercourse, and an unusually heavy menstrual flow, irregular periods, and infertility.
Regular gynecological checkups (at least once per year or more) are recommended. Many times, there is a history of sexual abuse. Seek counseling if you suspect that this may be a factor.
THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS ARE USED FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS AND CAN BE TAKEN UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:
1. Beta-carotene 150,000 Units per day. Women who become pregnant should not take more than 15,000 Units per day.
2. Vitamin C 1,000 milligrams, 4 to 5 times per day. Reduce the dose if diarrhea occurs.
3. Vitamin E 800 Units per day.
4. Linseed or Flaxseed oil 2 to 3 tablespoons per day.
5. Natural Progesterone oil 1/4 teaspoon per day.
REGARDING THE PROPER DIET FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS:
Eliminate dairy products from the diet. This includes milk, yogurt, sour cream, ice cream, and cheese.
Eliminate or reduce the consumption of meat. Replace protein from meat with protein from fish and beans. Use only meat that is certified as hormone and additive free.
Maintain an overall healthy diet Use fresh foods as close to the natural state as possible, avoiding prepackaged and processed foods. Eat daily servings of leafy green vegetables, whole grains (such as brown rice and rolled oats), fresh fruit, and proteins with a minimum of animal fat. Avoid sugars (such as pastries and candy) and refined carbohydrates (such as white bread and white rice). Drink at least 8 cups of fluids daily. For more information listen to our program on healthy diet (number 343).
Reduce the use of fats such as butter, margarine, vegetable oils, and mayonnaise. Nuts and nut butters also have a high fat content and need to be limited.
Decrease or eliminate consumption of caffeine, found mostly in coffee, black tea, chocolate, and some over-the-counter medications.
HERBS USED FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS:
Dandelion Root, Wild Yam, and Angelica These can be used as a tea. Measure 1 tea-spoon of each herb per 2 cups of water. Simmer for 5 minutes then steep for 20 minutes. Drink 3 cups per day. They can also be used as a tincture, which is a liquid herbal extract 20 drops of each 3 times per day in a little water.
For heavy periods and heavy bleeding Shepards Purse and Cramp Bark for the 2 weeks preceding the period. These can be taken as a tea or a tincture, prepared the same as the previously mentioned herbs and taken in the same dosage.
PHYSICAL THERAPY MEASURES FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Castor oil packs Moisten a thin cotton cloth with castor oil and place on the lower abdomen. Cover with a plastic bag and then a dry cloth. Leave in place and rest for an hour. A heating pad or hot water bottle can be put on top to heighten the effect.
Acupuncture can be helpful in controlling pain. You may want to look for a licensed acupuncturist in your area.
HOMEOPATHY
Sabina 6C: For uterine bleeding or heavy menstrual periods. Dissolve 3 pellets under the tongue 3 times a day between meals while symptoms are present.
Note: A wide range of homeopathic medicines can be helpful for individuals with this condition. Consultation with a health care professional trained in homeopathic prescribing will usually be the best way to select the correct medicine.
Clinic
Footnotes
BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.