Hormonal imbalance occurs when there is too much or too little of certain hormones, which are chemicals controlling important functions like growth, mood, metabolism, sleep and reproduction.
Certain teas can help support hormonal balance by addressing factors contributing to imbalances, such as stress, sleep, metabolism, inflammation, and insulin resistance.
Chamomile Tea
When you are stressed, a hormone called cortisol is secreted by the adrenal gland (located at the top of your kidneys). This hormone is often called the "stress hormone"
In healthy people, the level of cortisol is high in the morning, gradually decreases throughout the day and is lowest at night.
This pattern is called a steep cortisol slope, and it’s a sign of a well-regulated stress system
When you are under chronic stress or anxiety, the level of cortisol may be low in the morning and high in the evening. This pattern can disrupt the cortisol slope, affecting sleep, energy, mood, and immune function.
The apigenin in chamomile tea helps normalise the cortisol slope, especially if you are under anxiety or chronic stress.
Green Tea
The ovaries stop producing estrogen and have much less estrogen in the body, which is produced by other parts of the body when a woman is in her menopause stage
Too much estrogen in postmenopausal women can increase the risk of certain cancers which are sensitive to hormones.
The natural plant compounds in green tea, known as polyphenols, especially catechins, may help lower estrogen levels and support postmenopausal women.
Hibiscus Tea
The liver filters and breaks down hormones such as estrogen, progesterone and androgen. After the body uses these hormones, it has to be secreted through urine.
When your liver isn't functioning properly, it may not efficiently clear out hormones, which can lead to a buildup of hormone byproducts, especially estrogen. Excess estrogen in your body can cause symptoms such as PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) and heavy, painful periods.
The anthocyanins and flavonoids in hibiscus tea help the liver function properly and clear hormones, thereby reducing heavy and painful periods.
Spearmint Tea
The testosterone hormone is normally higher in men compared to women; they have smaller amounts.
When women have too much of this testosterone hormone, it causes sebum production (extra oil) in the skin, leading to acne and unwanted hair growth on the face, chest and stomach, which is called hirsutism.
The natural compounds in spearmint tea, known as flavonoids and polyphenols, help reduce testosterone levels, reducing acne and hirsutism in women with PCOS and related conditions.
Steps to Note While Drinking Teas for Hormonal Imbalance
Conclusion
Certain teas like spearmint, green tea, hibiscus, and red raspberry leaf contain natural compounds that support hormonal balance by modulating the hormone levels.
Regularly drinking these teas can help ease the symptoms of PMS, PCOS and promote regular cycles and improve overall wellness.
These teas are not a substitute for hormonal balance. They may help regulate hormones. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor before consuming them.
FAQs
1. Does drinking tea help cure the hormonal balance?
No, drinking tea is not a cure for hormonal balance. It can be a helpful natural support for managing symptoms, but it should not replace medical treatments prescribed by your healthcare provider.
2. How long does it take to see the results from drinking spearmint tea?
Some women notice improvements in symptoms like hirsutism or acne within five days, while others may need to drink the tea consistently for several weeks to a month to see significant changes in hormone levels.
3. Are there any side effects or risks?
Some herbal teas can cause side effects and may interact with medicines.
Also, some individuals may experience digestive changes. So, it is best to consult your doctor.
4. Who should avoid drinking hormonal balance tea?
Avoid drinking hormonal balance tea if you are allergic to specific herbs. Pregnant and breastfeeding women.