The Hormone Helpers

   
 

CASE STUDY: Hormone Health

SUBMITTED BY: Katie AdvDip HSc Naturopathy

PATIENT: Female, 41 years old

INITIAL PRESENTATION

Female presenting with premenstrual anxiety and low mood. This is atypical for the client, who usually has high vitality and energy levels. She had noticed a change in mood starting to develop over the past two cycles, which she has linked to being extra busy and feeling as though she doesn’t get sufficient help around the house and in raising her two children. Her partner is supportive but also very busy.

Consistent menstrual periods are described throughout her menstrual history, with no notable changes to flow or frequency. The client has no knowledge of her mother’s cycle history, as she passed away when the client was young.

She commonly experiences aura migraines, often in association with her monthly cycle, but also sporadically, and breast tenderness is experienced in the week prior. The client commonly takes 2 Nurofen when she feels a migraine coming on to help prevent its development.

These symptoms are considered ‘normal’ for the client, however, feelings of apathy and low energy towards things she would usually enjoy had her feeling some concern.

Sleep disturbance has also been occurring, and she has been waking 1 to 4 times per night. The client puts this down to waking up thirsty, and the dog needing to go outside to the toilet. She has difficulty returning to sleep once she has woken. Her mind is racing. No night sweats.

Bowel movements are regular and pass easily, but flatulence, bloating, and belching are common.

The client has up to 4-5 coffees per day and enjoys passionflower and chamomile tea blends in the evenings before bed to help wind down. She occasionally drinks white wine, but usually only if they have company over. Stress levels are consistently high, and the client struggles to find time for herself.

No current medications and no known contraindications or allergies.

HERBAL TREATMENT

Hormone Blend (200mL)

St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) 60mL
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) 60mL
Asparagus (Asparagus racemosus) 60mL
Chaste tree (Vitex castus) 20mL

Total 200mL

Dosage

5mL x 3-4 times daily

ADDITIONAL TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

• Improve hydration to include 2 litres of fluids, including filtered water, herbal tea, soups/broth during the day to avoid thirst during the night. Ensure temperatures in the room are regulated as well.
• Limit coffee to 2 per day and avoid after 12pm. Enjoy the ritual.
• Recommended dietary support including higher intake of B vitamin-rich foods and proteins.
• Liver support - increased antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, with a focus on organic or spray-free/locally sourced foods where possible.
• Discussed stress management techniques and sleep hygiene, and the importance of time for self – not just taking a hot bath but prioritising her needs.
• Introduced magnesium supplementation and encouraged omega-3 intake.
• Kiwiherb Sound Asleep, take 10mL on waking during the night to support the return to sleep.
• Referral to an osteopath to assess alignment of the neck for migraines.

FOLLOW-UP

• 2 week check-in:

The client enjoyed her ‘potion’ and admitted to taking small swigs like a sailor. She believes it has helped her mood and she doesn’t feel low like she was. She is still frustrated about being busy and her work difficulties but feels as though she can manage daily life better.

The client said the taste was terrible, but she was happy to take it because she felt it was working. May add a concentrate to the mix next time if there is room in the formula.

She has been taking magnesium regularly and is trying to reduce coffee and increase water. This is happening slowly. The client did comment that she felt she was sleeping better and is trying to go to bed earlier. She enjoys reading, so I have encouraged her to read before bed rather than watch TV shows to reduce blue light exposure.

Previously a chef, the client is creative with food and has felt inspired to add more vegetables and some different meals to her weekly rotation and making some tweaks to her usual meals.

Client is yet to contact the osteopath, so have reiterated the importance of prioritising herself and investing time in her health.

Native Herbal Formula Alternative

Kawakawa (Macropipier excelsum) 1:2 30mL
Totara (Podocarpus totara) 1:2 20mL
Mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) glycetract 1:2 30mL
Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) 1:1 20mL

Total 100mL

Dosage

5mL x 3 times daily