11 Herbs for PCOS for Regular Periods and Increased Fertility 

Few things in life are as problematic as persistent, distressing PCOS symptoms.

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Polycystic ovary syndrome often comes with unpredictable periods, fertility problems, mood disorders, problem skin, and more. As if that’s not enough, this hormonal condition puts you at risk of serious health complications down the line, like heart disease and stroke. And let's not even get started on the frustration of dealing with the side-effects of prescription drugs.

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In short, life with PCOS frequently feels like a battle.

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But here's the thing: the right herbs for PCOS can transform your life, regulate your periods, and improve your overall health. That's right, there are ways to manage the symptoms of PCOS without relying on drugs.  

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There's tons of research to support herbs as a PCOS treatment. For example, a research review published in the Frontiers in Pharmacology journal found herbs could reduce male hormones, improve menstrual regularity, and lower insulin resistance among PCOS patients.

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In this article, I’ve rounded up the best herbs for PCOS and how they can potentially help manage its effects.

What herbs are best for PCOS?

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, and PCOS is no exception. Like PCOS teas, herbs for PCOS give you a natural way to regulate your periods, boost your mood, and even increase your fertility.  

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Some of the most popular herbs used to treat PCOS include chasteberry, ginseng, and licorice root. Chasteberry is known to help balance hormones, while ginseng and licorice root are used to reduce inflammation and improve overall health. 

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While most are generally well tolerated, they can have side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. For example, certain herbal remedies aren't safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

That’s why it’s always best to do your own research and reach out to your health professional before taking any herbal remedies.  

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a popular natural remedy for skin conditions, but it's also an effective PCOS treatment.

According to a 2020 research review published in the Biomolecular Concepts journal, Aloe vera can help regulate blood sugar levels, which is crucial for women with PCOS. Animal studies showed Aloe vera may help to improve insulin resistance and curb testosterone levels. 

Insulin resistance is the root of many distressing PCOS symptoms, including weight gain and infertility. So, by  improving insulin sensitivity, aloe vera may ease a ton of PCOS symptoms.

2. Chasteberry 

As a PCOS treatment, Chasteberry, also known as Vitex agnus-castus, has a lot going for it. Part of why it’s such a great herb for PCOS is its ability to influence your hormone levels. PCOS, after all, is a hormonal disorder.

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As Dr Sobia Khan, who specialises in functional medicine, tells Cleveland Clinic:

“(Chasteberry) helps with conditions where your estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall.”

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Evidence suggests that chasteberry may improve menstrual regularity and lower prolactin, per the Taiwanese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Researchers think Chasteberry is an effective fertility aid because it regulates prolactin - high prolactin levels when you're not pregnant can interfere with ovulation.

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Some research suggests Chasteberry may improve fertility, with one study showing PCOS patients who took a supplement containing chaste tree and other vitamins were more likely to conceive than women who took only a placebo.

3. White Peony

Commonly used in Chinese medicine, white peony balances hormones. More specifically, research shows white peony can regulate progesterone and testosterone levels.

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In addition, white peony is known to reduce menstrual pain and cramps. Furthermore, studies suggest that white peony can also improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. That's particularly important if you have PCOS: research shows PCOS may make you more likely to experience mental health issues.

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4. Licorice Root

Licorice root is an essential herb for PCOS, known for treating acne and infertility.

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This natural remedy has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat lung and kidney disease.

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When it comes to PCOS, research finds licorice may manage acne. There’s an established link between PCOS and acne, and it’s thought elevated levels of androgens worsen acne among PCOS patients.

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Indeed, other research shows licorice root may lower testosterone in women with PCOS. Additionally, it’s been shown to promote ovulation.

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Furthermore, it can help reduce inflammation, which can be especially beneficial for PCOS. PCOS is associated with chronic low grade inflammation.

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Finally, there's also some evidence for licorice root as an anti-stress herb, and I can personally attest to those benefits.

5. Nettle

Nettle is packed full of minerals that help with hormone balance and overall health, like iron, calcium, and magnesium. For example, magnesium is often credited with providing relief from PCOS acne and anxiety.

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And it has proven benefits for PCOS and women's health.

According to the 2021 BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies journal, nettle contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This research review also explores animal studies that show nettle may improve ovarian function in PCOS.

6. Fenugreek

Fenugreek seeds have long been used to regulate blood sugar levels. Maintaining blood sugar levels is critical when you have PCOS. While scientists are still investigating the relationship between PCOS and diabetes, PCOS may up your risk of developing diabetes. 

Research shows fenugreek contains compounds that can reduce insulin levels. A major bonus for women with PCOS who often struggle with insulin resistance. What's more, some evidence suggests fenugreek may regulate periods and improve fertility. 

7. Marjoram

Marjoram offers anti-inflammatory properties that can fight the chronic inflammation commonly associated with PCOS. 

By reducing inflammation, marjoram may contribute to improved menstrual regularity and overall well-being. 

According to the 2022 Heliyon journal, marjoram has been shown to regulate periods and insulin levels. It may also reduce ovary weight, meaning it might lower the number of ovarian cysts.

8. Shatavari

In Ayurvedic medicine, Shatavari is known as a powerful herb for women's health. Shatavari also acts as an adaptogen, meaning it can help the body deal with stress.

According to research, Shatavari can help with infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, and ovarian development. What makes Shatavari an effective PCOS treatment, is that it regulates estrogen and insulin levels. Shatavari is also known to reduce inflammation and improve the body's ability to absorb nutrients.

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Not only that, but Shatavari may increase the hormone responsible for follicle development, leading to better egg production. 

9. Evening Primrose

Evening primrose contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid that supports hormone production and helps reduce inflammation.

According to research, evening primrose oil may reduce cysts in women with PCOS.

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10. Berberine 

Berberine is a compound found in several herbs, including goldenseal and Oregon grape. It may balance hormones in women with PCOS.

According to the Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Berberine can improve weight loss and insulin sensitivity. 

11. Ginseng

Studies have shown that ginseng may reduce ovarian cysts.

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Additionally, some studies suggest that ginseng may have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect. Inflammation and oxidative stress are often associated with PCOS.

Ease your PCOS symptoms naturally with herbal remedies 

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Living with PCOS comes with a ton of  unpleasant symptoms.  Luckily, supplementing herbs offer a natural way to balance hormones and reduce inflammation.

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