Top 5 Herbs for Hormones
Herbs That Support Hormonal Balance – Through the Brain and Body
Written by Ashlee Green, Registered Clinical Nutritionist & Naturopath
Did you know our hormones don’t work in isolation?
They’re part of a complex feedback loop between the brain, glands, and organs - and herbs can help regulate this system not just by acting on the ovaries, but by calming the brain, supporting ovulation, and improving the way we respond to stress and hormonal shifts.
Here are five of the most researched and clinically effective herbs we use regularly in clinic to support hormone regulation, ovulatory function, and the brain-hormone connection:
Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus)
This is one of the most prescribed herbs in our clinic - and for good reason.
Chaste Tree acts primarily on the brain. It binds to dopamine receptors, helping to lower prolactin levels (which, when elevated, can worsen PMS symptoms, reduce libido, and interfere with ovulation). It also modulates the pituitary gland’s release of LH and FSH - critical hormones for triggering ovulation and healthy progesterone production.
By improving the communication between the brain and ovaries, Chaste Tree supports:
More regular ovulation
Higher progesterone
Relief from PMS symptoms, estrogen dominance, PCOS, and endometriosis
Dong Quai
Sometimes referred to as “female ginseng,” Dong Quai is a traditional Chinese herb known for its effects on circulation, uterine tone, and menstrual regulation.
It’s mildly estrogenic, making it helpful in symptoms related to both low estrogen and estrogen imbalances. It can support the brain’s sensitivity to estrogen signals, potentially easing:
Bloating
Mood swings
Headaches
Breast tenderness
Menstrual cramping
Hot flushes (particularly in perimenopause)
Dong Quai also improves pelvic circulation, which may help reduce clotting and pain.
Black Cohosh
Black Cohosh has been extensively studied for its effects on menopausal symptoms by interacting with estrogen receptors and neurotransmitter pathways that regulate body temperature, mood, and sleep.
It’s often used to support women experiencing:
Hot flushes and night sweats
Mood fluctuations
Sleep disturbances
Vaginal dryness
Postmenopausal bone loss
Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects also make it valuable for aging well through menopause.
Paeonia (White Peony)
Paeonia works on multiple levels to support hormonal health by calming inflammation and improving neurotransmitter balance.
Paeonia supports improved fertility, reduced menstrual pain, and fewer mood-related PMS symptoms, and night sweats.
It’s particularly helpful in situations of:
High testosterone (e.g. PCOS)
Low progesterone
Elevated estrogen or prolactin
Painful or irregular periods
Tribulus terrestris
Often associated with male reproductive health, Tribulus has some impressive benefits for female hormone support too.
It supports FSH levels - a hormone that initiates follicle development and ovulation. For this reason, it’s commonly used in women with PCOS or irregular cycles who aren’t ovulating regularly. it works to:
Enhance libido
Support fertility
Improve ovulation and ovarian response
Increase sperm quality and motility in men
While each herb has unique effects, most of them work by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis - essentially helping the brain and ovaries communicate more effectively.
A Note: While these herbs are powerful, they’re not always appropriate for every individual or phase of the cycle. Some are contraindicated in pregnancy, certain medical conditions, or when taking hormonal medications. Always seek practitioner guidance before starting herbal treatment.
