Herb Your Enthusiasm: Plant Medicine for Hormone Support Part 1

In this episode of the Hormone Heroines Podcast, the hosts provide a comprehensive overview of how herbal medicine can support hormonal health across every stage of a woman’s life—from PMS to perimenopause.

They begin by discussing the most common hormonal imbalance pattern: estrogen dominance with low progesterone, often seen in PMS. Liver-supportive herbs such as Dandelion, Burdock, and Milk Thistle help clear excess estrogen, while progesterone-supporting herbs like Vitex and Evening Primrose Oil help restore balance.

The conversation then shifts to PMDD, described as “PMS on steroids,” where mood instability and severe emotional symptoms require deeper nervous system support. Herbs like Valerian, Saffron, Rhodiola, and carefully monitored St. John’s Wort are discussed as adjunctive tools alongside medical care.

For PCOS, the focus turns to androgen reduction and insulin sensitivity. The hosts outline a biphasic herbal protocol aligned with the menstrual cycle, as well as key metabolic tools like Berberine and Inositol (40:1 ratio). Anti-androgen herbs such as Spearmint, Saw Palmetto, and White Peony are also reviewed.

In the postpartum and pregnancy segment, the hosts discuss the dramatic hormone drop after birth and the importance of safe, breastfeeding-compatible herbs like Shatavari. Nervines such as Lemon Balm, Skullcap, Lavender, and Catnip are highlighted for calming support, while Red Raspberry Leaf and Oats are noted as nutritive pregnancy allies.

Finally, for perimenopause, the focus shifts from curative protocols to symptom relief. Black Cohosh for hot flashes, Shatavari for libido, and uterine-supportive combinations like Cramp Bark and California Poppy are discussed.

The episode closes with an important reminder: herbs are powerful medicine. Proper dosing, professional supervision, and awareness of medication interactions are critical for safe and effective use.

Dr. Heidi Codino and Dr. Serena Russum are the founders and co-hosts of the Hormone Heroines Podcast, where they translate complex hormone science into practical, empowering guidance for women.

As clinicians deeply rooted in functional and integrative medicine, Drs. Heidi and Serena specialize in female hormone balance across the lifespan—from PMS and PCOS to postpartum recovery and perimenopause. Their approach blends evidence-informed medicine with real-world clinical experience, helping women move beyond symptom suppression and toward true root-cause healing.

Through candid conversations, expert interviews, and educational deep dives, they aim to demystify hormones, challenge outdated narratives about women’s health, and equip listeners with tools to advocate for their bodies confidently.

Hormone Heroines was created to remind women that their symptoms are not random, dramatic, or “just part of getting older”—they are signals worth understanding.

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