Naturopathy and PCOS: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is now one of the most common hormonal issues affecting women. It can show up in many ways, like irregular periods, stubborn weight gain, acne, excess facial or body hair, and even trouble conceiving.
For many women, PCOS feels overwhelming because it takes a toll on both physical health and emotional well-being. While medical treatment from a gynaecologist is essential, more and more women are also exploring naturopathy and other holistic, natural approaches to support their recovery.
Naturopathy doesn’t claim to magically “cure” PCOS, but it focuses on easing symptoms, supporting hormone balance, and improving overall well-being.
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What is naturopathy?
Naturopathy is a system of healthcare that focuses on natural remedies and lifestyle changes to support the body’s healing and balance. When it comes to PCOS, naturopathy tries to understand what’s driving the condition beneath the surface; things like insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and hormonal imbalance.
A naturopathic approach to PCOS usually centres on:
- Diet and nutrition: Choosing foods that stabilise blood sugar and support hormone balance
- Herbal remedies and supplements: Using evidence-based herbs and nutrients to ease symptoms
- Stress management: Calming the nervous system to reduce hormone disruption
- Exercise and daily routines: Building lifestyle habits that support long-term health
How does naturopathy help with PCOS?
Balancing blood sugar:
Insulin resistance is a key driver of PCOS. When your cells stop responding properly to insulin, your blood sugar stays higher for longer, which can disrupt your hormones. A naturopathic plan usually focuses on keeping blood sugar stable with low–glycaemic index foods such as whole grains, lentils, vegetables, and some fruits. It may include herbs such as fenugreek to help support glucose control.
Supporting hormone balance:
Many women with PCOS have higher levels of androgens (male hormones), which can trigger symptoms like acne, excess facial or body hair, and scalp hair thinning. Many women may add flax seeds to their diet, drink spearmint tea, and use herbs such as chasteberry (Vitex) that are traditionally used to support more regular menstrual cycles.
Managing stress and sleep:
Stress hormones, especially cortisol, can worsen PCOS by disrupting blood sugar, ovulation, and overall hormonal balance. That’s why stress and sleep are a big part of naturopathic care. Helpful tools often include:
- Yoga, meditation, and simple deep-breathing exercises
- Spending time outdoors or in calming natural spaces
- Herbal support, such as ashwagandha, to help the body cope with stress
- Making good-quality sleep a daily priority
What are the herbs that can be used for PCOS?
In naturopathy, certain herbs are often used alongside diet and lifestyle changes to support women with PCOS. Common examples include:
- Spearmint tea: May help reduce excess facial or body hair in some women.
- Vitex (chasteberry): Traditionally used to support more regular menstrual cycles.
- Fenugreek: Can help improve insulin sensitivity and support blood sugar balance.
- Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may benefit overall hormonal health.
Benefits of a naturopathic approach to PCOS:
A naturopathic PCOS plan may help you experience:
- More regular and predictable periods
- Better day-to-day energy
- Clearer skin and fewer acne flare-ups
- Improved chances of conceiving
- Less bloating and more comfortable digestion
- Lower long-term risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease
Also Read | Can nature heal you? The role of sun, water & air in naturopathy
A sample naturopathic day for PCOS
- Morning: Start with warm water and lemon, then have a spoonful of soaked fenugreek seeds.
- Breakfast: A bowl of oats topped with flaxseeds, chia seeds, and a handful of berries.
- Mid-morning: A cup of spearmint tea with a small handful of walnuts.
- Lunch: Quinoa with lentils, sautéed spinach, and a fresh mixed salad.
- Afternoon: Green tea with cucumber sticks and hummus.
- Evening: Light yoga or a 20-minute brisk walk.
- Dinner: Grilled fish or tofu with steamed broccoli and brown rice.
- Bedtime: A calming herbal tea like chamomile, followed by a few minutes of deep breathing to unwind.
PCOS can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to control your whole life. Naturopathy offers a gentle, holistic approach to managing symptoms through food, herbs, movement, and stress care.