Natural treatments are increasingly valued for their ability to put the welfare of their patients first, with a range of safe therapies available for healing a wide range of illnesses, disease and conditions. The medical world is also increasingly adopting many of these treatments as a complement to existing medical options, where they provide patients essential relief from pain and aid in recovery.
What is Endometriosis?
This condition is experienced by women of child bearing age, and is characterised by pain, swelling, bleeding and possible infertility. This is caused by the movement of the cells that make up the inner lining of the uterus, which migrate to other areas of the body and begin to grow there. While there is no definitive cause for this, triggers are thought to include a hormone imbalance – specifically an excess of oestrogen – as well as genetic factors and allergies. Typical medical approaches to the condition include surgery, pain relief medication and hormone treatment.
Natural Treatments for Endometriosis
The following natural treatments offer relief from the symptoms of this condition, and include:
- Acupuncture: Acupuncture is an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which is based on keeping the energy flow throughout the body flowing; and is considered the key to a balanced and healthy individual. In treating endometriosis TCM targets blood flow in the body, which acupuncture has been shown to be effective at promoting. It also is effective in stimulating the production of ‘feel good’, pain relieving hormones such as endorphins. Consult a trained acupuncturist for their advice on a course of acupuncture your endometriosis.See acupuncture and endometriosis for more information.
- Aromatherapy: Aromatherapy uses a range of plant based essential oils to effect recovery and healing. Many of these, such as lavender and rose oils are well known as aids to relax and help with pain relief. Used as a massage or balm aromatherapy can be beneficial in treating the pain and cramping associated with endometriosis, though this should be done under the supervision of a trained aromatherapist.See aromatherapy and endometriosis for more information.
- Herbal Medicine: Herbal medicine uses plant-based remedies and extracts to effect healing and relief from the symptoms of disease and conditions. Herbs such as evening primrose oil and ginger have been used for many years to provide relief from cramping, which is one of the primary symptoms of endometriosis. Other herbs that may be prescribed by a herbalist for the condition act to reduce bleeding and balance hormone levels. See herbal medicine and endometriosis for more information.
- Homeopathy: Homeopathy uses progressively reduced dilution of plant and mineral extracts to stimulate the natural healing ability of the body. Remedies are prescribed after careful consideration of the patients symptoms and are intended to simulate the ‘like for like’ principle that is central to this. See homeopathy and endometriosis for more information.
- Massage: Massage is an ancient therapy utilised for the relief of muscular tension and healing of damaged tissue. It has also been shown to stimulate circulation and enhance the overall wellbeing of recipients; and is therefore valued as an important tool for recovery after an ailment or illness. Massage for endometriosis is centred on pain relief and encouraging circulation in the abdominal area. See massage and endometriosis for more information.
- Nutrition: Nutritional advice from a nutritionist or dietitian is crucial in maintaining your health and vitality, especially in the face of an existing condition or illness. This primarily centres on getting a balanced diet, with the right mix of vitamins and minerals; but can also be tailored for specific conditions. In the case of endometriosis, omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to calm uterine contractions; while wholegrain foods and green vegetables such as broccoli can aid in reducing oestrogen levels in the body. See nutrition and endometriosis for more information.
- Osteopathy: Osteopathy uses a range of manipulation and stretching techniques to realign elements of the body. This is intended to ensure that there are no impediments, and all aspects of the body are able to function to their optimum. Osteopathy is used for a wide range of conditions, and is especially popular for resolving musco-skeletal ailments such as back and neck pain. For endometriosis osteopathic treatment will focus on releasing any pelvic congestion and relieving uterine contractions.See osteopathy and endormetriosis for more information.
- TCM: TCM uses a range of techniques in its holistic approach to health and healing. This includes use of herbal medicine, acupuncture and massage; amongst others. The herbal remedy and massage elements will attempt to improve blood flow; while acupuncture stimulates the endocrine system to produce essential pain relieving hormones. See TCM and endometriosis for more information.
Locate a natural therapy in your area on the pages of this site.
Originally published on Sep 30, 2010
