Dear Bob Liebert,

I have PCOS, excessive facial hair etc. Is there any herb that will decrease facial hair?

anonymous

Dear Friend,

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is accompanied by an abnormally high amount of androgen (or male-type) hormones, but also of estrogen; or at least estrogen that is not necessarily that high, but is unopposed for too much of the cycle with low progesterone levels. Not enough progesterone at the right times to stimulate complete ovulation, or later to shed the uterine lining at the menstrual period. Some herbs used for hormone balance include Chaste Berry, Saw Palmetto, Wild Yam, Helonias and Evening Primrose. Ginger extract or tea can be added to bring "warmth" and circulation to the female organs.

Insulin resistance is coming out as a possible cause of PCOS. Dandelion Root and Devil's Club would be good tonics to take for the pancreas and liver, along with a diet that would not worsen blood sugar problems or cause obesity, as weight gain can be a problem as well, which in turn causes more estrogen to be stored in the body.

You can buy these herbs and many more in the Formula and Single Herb sections of the Teeter Creek Herb website. Herbs that don't appear in the Formula or Single Herb lists can usually be requested in the "Message" section at the bottom of the order page.

The information expressed is the personal observations of Herbalist Bob Liebert based on his personal experience and his studies of folk and traditional herbalism. These observations are not meant to be a substitute for qualified medical diagnosis and treatment. Uses of many of the herbs have not been scientifically verified.