Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Definition: I would like to begin this article with a basic definition of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and a short description of this malady. According to the Mayo Clinic website, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a hormonal disorder that is common among women of reproductive age. The ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid and fail to release eggs regularly. Women with PCOS may have either infrequent or lengthy menstrual periods and may have excessive levels of the male hormone adrogen.

How Common is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?

The U.S. Department of Heath and Human Services estimates that approximately 1 out of every 20 women will develop PCOS during their childbearing years.

Symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome:

A combination of several of the following symptoms may be an indication of the development of full-blown PCOS.

•  Pelvic pain. This pain may occur with periods and be accompanied by heavy bleeding. The pain may occur or continue even between the bleeding parts of the cycle.
•  Adult acne. Problems tend to show up in the more “hormonally sensitive” areas. These areas include the back, upper neck, cheeks, jawline, and the lower third of the face.
• Type 2 diabetes or signs of pre-diabetes.
• Infertility issues. PCOS, diagnosed or not yet discovered, is a preeminent cause of infertility. PCOS causes over-production of the more male hormone androgen and too little production of progesterone. These two hormones are necessary for ovulation to occur regularly and as it should.
• Unnatural hair growth. Significant hair growth on the upper lip, side of the face, or on the chest is an early warning sign of the sort of hormonal imbalance that contributes to PCOS.
• Weight gain or obesity that is difficult to manage.
• Fatigue, low energy, and difficulty sleeping.
• Hair loss. Thinning of the hair on the head as middle age approaches.
• Mood swings, depression anxiety.
• Headaches that appear to be hormonally related because they occur during the same parts of the menstrual cycle.
• Sleep disorders, including sleep apnea.

Complications of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome:

The Mayo Clinic site states that while they don’t know the exact cause of PCOS, early diagnosis and treatment, along with weight loss,  may reduce long-term complications.  These complications include such things as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Other complications listed as possible with this syndrome include:

• Infertility.
• Gestational diabetes or pregnancy induced high blood pressure.
• Miscarriage or premature birth.
• Liver inflammation caused by fat accumulation in the liver (fatty liver).
• High blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels with a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular disease.  These are all metabolic issues.
• Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes.
• Depression, anxiety, and eating disorder.
• Abnormal uterine bleeding.
• Cancer of the uterine lining (endometrial cancer).

Now that I (and Mayo Clinic) have your attention about the seriousness of this syndrome, let’s discuss possible causes. We will do this from both a mainstream medical perspective and from some alternative points of view. We do this so that we can begin to identify preventative measures and find possible solutions.  (A syndrome is a condition for which a specific cause has not yet been identified.  A syndrome usually has many contributing factors and a variety of symptoms).

Causes of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome:

While the precise cause of PCOS is unknown, there are commonalities in patients who suffer from PCOS. The list of causes to me is a bit frustrating.  They do not tell me the possible causes of the causes that they list.

Examples Taken  from the Mayo Clinic Site:

• Out of balance hormones. Hormones being out-of-whack are always listed first and foremost as the cause of PCOS. Question: What is the cause of the hormonal imbalances? Also, this is a question with a variety of answers and solutions to those issues.
• Excess insulin and/or insulin resistance as a contributing factor to the ovaries producing too much androgen. Question: What causes the insulin issues and what can be done about them? Working with blood sugar issues and with the pancreas will require some effort but the results will be well worth it.  (Perhaps there are answers to this question elsewhere on the various sites).
• Low-grade inflammation. This term is used to describe white blood cells’ production of substances to fight infection. So my question is, can the location and treatment of low-grade, systemic infection reduce or eliminate this inflammation?  Will this reduce the over-production of adrogen production in the ovaries? Also it can! Herbs and essential oils can be of great assistance in this effort.
• Heredity. If one in 20 women suffer from PCOS, it is probably in almost every woman’s hereditary line somewhere.
• Obesity. The Mayo clinic  states that obesity is associated with PCOS.  Obesity can worsen complications of this disorder. This is true, although we all may know someone suffering from this disorder who is very tiny or even underweight.

Ideas Proposed by Alternative and Eastern Medical Philosophies:

• A generally toxic system. A fatty liver is listed by Mayo as a complication of PCOS.  The clogging of the liver by an improper diet, the consumption drugs and chemicals, and the general toxicity of the environment in which we live is a major contributor to PCOS.

The liver performs a very long list of functions. The breaking down of hormones when the need for them is past is one very important one. Also important is the manufacture of carnitine. Carnitine is essential to the metabolism of fat. Fat accumulates in the liver first and then in the cells of the rest of the body. Fatty liver was once seen only in alcoholics.  Today’s lifestyle seems to be a recipe for liver disaster. In the United States it is estimated that  20% of the population have serious amounts of fat in their livers. This condition can, and too often does these days, occur even in children.

Weight is always mentioned as a cause of, or at least a contributing factor to, PCOS.  It is also considered to be a complication of PCOS.  The liver can reach a point where it has stored all of the fat that it can.  When clogged like this, the liver can no longer protect the cells of the body from fat accumulation. The cells and tissues are the next logical storage place for fat that the body is unable to burn. Weight then becomes both a cause and result of PCOS. A liver cleanse program, mild and well managed, is a very good idea. There is an excellent program in the book, Butterfly Miracles with Herbal Remedies. Please follow the entire program, not just the cleansing of the liver part to avoid discomfort.

The liver is also responsible for the production of about one third of the lymph fluid in the body. To little lymph fluid obviously means that the flow of the lymph will be compromised.

• An acidic condition (pH) in the body creates a perfect environment for the growth of infections.  This leads to the sort of low-grade inflammatory conditions discussed above. Controlling the pH in the body is best done by attention to diet. Essential oils can also, because of their effect on free radicals, help one to maintain proper pH balance.  This effect of essential oils is present, mostly, because they are concentrated plant material.  Essential oils, being plant based, are absorbed readily into the body.

• Lymphatic congestion. This is, in my opinion, is a very large factor!

Lymph fluid goes deep into the body tissues. Lymph fluid surrounds and bathes each cell, going where even blood does not penetrate. The movement of the lymph fluid provides continuous cleansing on a deep, cellular level. If the lymph is overburdened, waste stores in the connective tissues of organs and joints. The lymph system is an important part of immune function. Lymph fluid also carries nutrients to the cells.

In Eastern cultures and in Ayurvedic medical protocols the lymphatic system is looked at and treated first for many things.  This would include problems with menstruation, menopause, and nearly everything considered by Western Medicine to be hormone related. Let’s consider, for a moment, that many of these issues—including PCOS—may not be hormonal at all.  Perhaps the out-of-balance hormones are the result of clogged lymph and are not the original issue at all.

The lymph channels are the largest circulatory system in the body. They are designed to drain waste from all parts of the body. This waste drainage is critically important for good health. When congestion occurs in the lymph system, it takes a toll on all of the organ systems.

According to Ayurvedic medicine, when women menstruate, much of the reproductive waste is removed through the lymph.   This is an important companion system to menstrual bleeding. If the lymph is congested, the menstrual cycle may become painful, irregular, overly heavy, or go missing altogether. Congestion in the lymph can bring about typical PMS-associated symptoms.  Some of these include breast swelling or tenderness, temporary breakouts of acne, diarrhea or constipation, and bloating. Water retention, headaches, and an increased tendency to colds, sinus issues, and other respiratory issues may also be lymph related.

The lymph system is meant to carry off normal waste products from the ovaries after the egg is ejected.  Lack of lymph drainage makes a very logical primary cause of the cysts that form in the ovaries with PCOS.

Any treatment of PCOS, to be effective, must include clearing of and support for the lymphatic system.  Support for the endocrine (hormonal) system would also be necessary, although secondary to lymph support.

Solutions and Suggestions

Step One: Coping with Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections and the resulting inflammation are likely contributors to lymphatic congestion.  Lymphatic congestion may be the primary cause of many of the symptoms and risks associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Herbals for Fighting Infections: 

 IF (a standard). RC (my favorite infection fighting formula because it also cleans the blood).  BAC (bacterial infections.) CR (particularly effective because it contains Blue Vervain, Black Cohosh, Cayenne and Lobelia).  FN (For persistent fungal infections).  SS (A staph fighter).  Super C (Formerly called Super Cold and Lymph).  Yarrow/Usnea combination (Usnea fights infection and Yarrow dries up moist conditions such as cysts).  Anything containing Goldenseal or Oregon Grape.  Oregon Grape is just as effective as Goldenseal but does not disturb blood sugar levels in diabetics.  Shepherd’s Purse (Dries up excess fluids and fights infection). Cayenne to fight both infection and to improve both circulation and lymph drainage.  Garlic because it is nature’s best anti-biotic.

Essential Oils for Fighting Infections:

ALL essential oils are infection fighting to some degree. The best way to combat infections is to make essential oils a part of your life. Essential oils also make you more resistant to infections.  Some especially potent infection fighting essential oils include: ^LeAboutFace (contains 3 types of Frankincense).  ^LeBeloved (Emotional and infection fighting). ^LeCandila (Candida albicans infections).  ^LeDeliverance (The really big guns). ^LeMelaPlus (Skin and fungal infections).  ^LeMariah (Especially for flu strains where bacteria may be lingering in the body)  ^LeNoMore (Affinity for fungal infections). ^LeSimplicity (Herpes and other really nasty infections). ^LeSpiceC (Milder, more pleasant version of the great ^LeDeliverance).  ^LeStephanie (Anti-biotic resistant bacterial stains).  Oils made from spices (such as Cinnamon and Cloves) are particularly effective.  Resins oils (Including  Myrrh, Frankincense, and Opoponax) are particularly adept at immune system support.

Step Two:  Cleanse the Liver and Support  the Kidneys.

More information on supporting the kidneys and liver is available in the Butterfly Miracles with Herbal Remedies book. Continue kidney support after the cleanse is complete, especially if PCOS is present. The kidneys are important for so much more than just the removal of waste products from the body. The kidneys are responsible for maintaining electrolyte and fluid balance in the body. They also produce a series of hormones that regulate blood pressure, calcium metabolism, and the production of red blood cells.

Essential Oils for the Liver:

^LeAmbition (An oil that is truly effective for many body systems).  ^LeLivN (specific to the liver).  ^LeRevitalize (A gentle liver cleanse that rejuvenates the body mentally and physically).

Herbals  for the Kidneys:

Alfalfa, Buchu, Corn Silk, Dandelion, Chamomile, Cleavers, Ginger, Goldenrod, Horsetail, Hydrangea. Juniper Berries, Marshmallow, Mullein, Parsley Root, Squawvine, Stoneroot, Uva Urse, Plantain, Vitamins A, C, E, and B-Complex, Natural Salt, Cranberries.

There is a description of each of these herbs in the book Butterfly Miracles with Herbal Remedies. For information about these herbs as they relate to kidneys, the best place to look is in the chapter on “Diuretics, Nephritic, Antilithic and Lithotriptic Herbs”

Essential Oils for the Kidneys:

^LeAcknowledge (Toxic liver, unhappy kidneys, sluggish mind). ^LeEndoRelief (Support for the endocrine system, lymphatic drainage, and to establish emotional boundaries). ^LeEnergy (Fights infections and balances hormones as well as supporting the kidneys). ^LeLetting Go (An amazing combination for letting go of many things including the fear specific to kidney issues). ^LeReflections (Contains the very best diuretic essential oils and oils for the kidneys). ^LeRevitalize (Liver cleanse and kidney support). ^LeVitality (Considered a cardiovascular oil, it is also a great lymphatic oil). Clary Sage, Dill, Geranium, Grapefruit,  Juniper Berry, Lemon, Lemongrass, Myrtle, Parsley, Patchouli, Pine, Ravensara,  and Tarragon, are specific to kidneys.

The heart and the kidneys are very closely related. Stress in one system will, usually quite quickly, create stress in the other system. Support of the kidneys with PCOS is essential.  Otherwise there is risk of developing the heart problems that are associated with this syndrome. Problems in the kidneys are also implicated in osteoporosis and other bone disorders. Most conditions with “it is” (such as arthritis) are related to the kidneys.

Step Three: Eliminate Inflammation

This step results in both pain relief and healing from PCOS. The reduction of inflammation can only be completely accomplished when infections are no longer a problem.  Inflammation is often a by-product of infections.  It may also be the result of liver and kidney issues.  Eliminating hidden or known low-grade systemic infections will allow you to begin to eliminate inflammation in the body.   Cleansing the liver and supporting the kidneys will also help.

Herbals  for Inflammation:

AP (inflammation of any kind anywhere), BBL (For inflammation that is causing nerve problems and pain). BRON, LCON and PL (Inflammation that involves the lungs and respiratory system). CD and LB (Inflammation in the digestive and bowel system. Butcher’s Broom (cells and tissues). Marshmallow (Lungs and many other things). Mullein (For absolutely anything inflammatory). Bilberry (Cells and tissues). Fenugreek (Kidney and heart damage and blood sugar issues). White Willow Bark (Pain and cramping), Slippery Elm, (Inflamed bowels), Pokeroot (Any area that is infected and inflamed). Sarsaparilla (Elimination of endotoxins from the lower bowel that contribute to inflammatory conditions), Wild Yam and Black Cohosh (Inflammation in the reproductive tract in particular).

Essential Oils for Inflammation:

^LeAboutFace (Contains 3 types of Frankincense). ^LeCypernium (Circulatory, vein and capillary health). ^LeDeeper and ^LePaine (inflammation and pain relief, ^LePatches (Repair and healing of damaged tissues). ^LeSynopsis (Another universal – good for many systems and things).  ^LeTendaCare  and ^LeWarmDown (Muscles and respiratory). Anthopogon, the Chamomiles, Cypress, Helichrysum, Patchouli, and Spruce

Step Four: Lymphatic Drainage

Lymphatic drainage plays a huge part in polycystic ovarian syndrome.  The improvement of lymph will result in less inflammation.

Herbals  for Lymphatic Health:

LT—formerly Lymph Tonic (Lymph drainage). Super C (vitamin C is an excellent support to lymphatic tissues.) Yarrow/Usnea (Amazing how the same herbs accomplish many things.  These two herbs fight infection and help lymphatic drainage).  Echinacea (Immune system, endocrine and glandular systems, purifies the blood). Elder Berry and flower (Respiratory and cardiovascular systems). Thyme (Antibacterial and anti-fungal as well as lymph draining). Rosemary (Lymph drainage and circulatory). Garlic (Nature’s strongest antibiotic and lymphatic drainer). Elecampane (Expectorant herb.  Expectorants liquefy mucous. Moves lymph fluid along). Ginger (Acts as a carrier for other herbs). nettles (Diuretic, nutritive). Oregon grape (Endocrine system and lymphatic systems,  female reproductive issues). Parsley (One of the best kidney herbs). Plantain (Digestion, urinary tract, lymphatic system and strengthen the immune system). Poke Root (Lymphatic drainage), Red Clover (Nearly every organ system). Cramp Bark (Painful cramps in the abdominal area). Vitamins A, C, D, and B-complex are also essential.

Essential Oils for Lymphatic Health:

^LeAgeLess (Contains Frankincense). ^LeAutumn (Amazing emotionally and physically). ^LeCherish (One amazing emotional and physical blend.  ^LeCinnamonBear, ^LeHousewarming  and  ^LeDeliverance (Immune as well as lymphatic), ^LeEndoRelief (Drains the lymph while working with the entire endocrine system). ^LeFortitude (Moderates reactions to stress, improving overall health).  ^LeIntensity (Intense because it contains cinnamon and a bit of capsicum-cayenne). ^LeKey to My Heart (A versatile emotional and physical oil). ^LeLiteN (Energy, stamina, enthusiasm as well as support physically for struggling systems). ^LeReflections (Lymph with a strong emphasis on the urinary tract). ^LeRevitalize (A gentle liver and lymphatic cleanser that rejuvenates the body mentally and physically). ^LeSeasons  and ^LeSunbrust (Stimulates immune system),  ^LeSynopsis (Lymph drainage).  ^LeUnDone (Physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally, and psychologically grounding), ^LeVitality (Cardiovascular oil that supports all systems) Birch, Lemon

Other Suggestions for Lymphatic Health:

Exercise is essential because the lymph system has no pump. The motion of the muscles that moves lymph fluid along in the body. Deep breathing stimulates the flow of lymph fluid. Room temperature, or even hot water, sipped frequently throughout the day will re-hydrate the body and get lymph moving. Make use of clay baths and foot soaks. Gentle full-body massage is helps to push up to 75% of stagnant lymph back into circulation. Structural alignment, instead of misalignment, can prevent blockages of lymph flow from developing. Dry brushing of the skin is also helpful. Alternate hot and cold showers are also helpful (Brrr – not for me and contra-indicated for pregnancy and heart conditions.)

Step Five:  Balance and Support the Endocrine System.

Improvement of endocrine function will, naturally, balance hormones.  Many organs, including the heart and kidneys,  produce specific hormones. The organs of the endocrine system are primarily responsible for hormone production.

Following are some basic facts about various endocrine system organs as they relate to the symptoms of PCOS:

• The adrenals are important in the metabolism of carbohydrates and the regulation of blood sugar.  They play a role in the maintenance of electrolytes and water balance in the body.  They also help in the regulation of blood pressure.  (These are only a few of their many functions).
• The pituitary gland produces most of the hormones necessary to fertility, as well as those that induce ovulation, maintain pregnancy, and control lactation. The pituitary also produces estrogen for the prevention of the symptoms associated with menopause.  Certain urinary tract functions are also the responsibility of the pituitary.
• Besides its role in insulin and glucagon production, the pancreas produces enzymes essential to the functions of the small intestine.
• The thyroid produces hormones that control how quickly the body burns calories and uses energy.
• The hypothalamus produces hormones that communicate with the nervous system and the glandular system.

Side note: Hormones play a big role in so much of our lives.  It is a fallacy to believe that only women have hormones that go out of whack! In my experience, so much of what presents in men as temper, anxiety, midlife crisis, depression, and moodiness may have their roots in hormones.

Hormone Balancing Herbals:

Blue Cohosh  and Black Cohosh, Blessed Thistle, Calendula, the Chamomiles, Chaste Tree Berries, Cinnamon Bark, Cramp Bark, Damiana, Dandelion (Liver cleanse) Dong Quai, False Unicorn, Ginseng, Goldenseal, Licorice Root, Milk Thistle, Motherwort, Pulsatilla  (Unavailable in herbal form, use the homeopathic), Red Raspberry, Rosemary, Skullcap,  Uva Ursi, Vervain, Wild Yam, AD – adrenals, TY– thyroid, YW, MW and KNA

Hormone Balancing Essential Oils:

^LeAcknowledge (Also liver and nervous system). ^LeBalance (Hormone balance in older women and in men). ^LeCherish my favorite emotional blend. Also beneficial for hormone balance, urinary tract, lymphatic and respiratory systems as well as the immune and nervous systems). ^LeEndoRelief (Best endocrine blend). ^LeExpressions (Contains many of the highest frequency oils and oils specific to the female reproductive system). ^LeIntention (Citrus oils blended with vanilla-amazing).  ^LeSynopsis (Aids the digestive system in the uptake of nutrients vital to hormone balance). ^LeVitality (Stamina, strength, courage, endurance-all of which improve endocrine health and, thus, hormone balance).  ^LeWoman Wise (Also this is the premier essential oil blend for hormone balance during the childbearing years). Chaste Tree, Clary Sage, Jasmine, Melissa, Patchouli, Petitgrain, and Ylang Ylang  are noted for the balancing of hormones.

Essential Oils for Emotions:

^LeAngel (This is primarily a blend for the emotional and physical effects of childhood abuse). ^LeBaby Me (a very special combination for mothers and babies). ^LeBelieve (Help us love ourselves and others, freeing our energy for maintaining our physical health or healing). ^LeLetting Go (For the letting go of emotions that are holding us back and preventing our healing). ^LeMillenia (The realignment of physical, emotional and energetic structures). ^LeMygraine (Headaches often accompany hormone imbalances and this blend is often helpful). ^LeTranquility (For the emotional roller coaster ride that often accompanies hormone imbalances). ^LeUnity (A synergistic combination of 16 essential oils- something for every system, blended perfectly). ^LeWhispering Hope (A blend to bring courage in discouraging situations.  I love this one at nearly every stage of the childbearing years). Jasmine, Lavender, Yarrow

Endocrine Balancing Herbals:

Alfalfa, Astragalus, Bilberry, Dandelion, Echinacea, Ginseng, Goldenseal, Hawthorn, Kelp, Licorice Root, Milk Thistle, Mullein, Olive Leaf, Oregon Grape, Papaya, Safflower, Saw Palmetto, Uva Vrsi, Vitamin E, B-Complex, Manganese, Selenium, other trace minerals and amino acids.

Endocrine Balancing Essential Oils:

^LeBaby Me (Affinity for the endocrine system.  Increases skin elasticity-think stretch marks). ^LeBalance (for endocrine balance among older women, men, and  women with certain unusual hormone imbalances). ^LeBenediction (strengthens energy boundaries.  Helping us express ourselves without blaming or whining).  ^LeEndoRelief is the best for rebuilding the endocrine system.  Use  with whatever other essential oils and remedies you choose.)  ^LeEnergy (Contains the best stimulating and tonifying essential oils). ^LeEternity (uptake of nutrients), ^LeGrace  (The grounding of Spruce and Sandalwood oils blended with the unique emotional aspects of Zanthoxylum). ^LeKindred Spirit (Coping with the stress that change brings to our lives). ^LeLivN (A mild liver cleanse.  The liver plays many important roles. The endocrine system and the hormones cannot be balanced if the liver is clogged).  Bergamot, Cilantro, Coriander (cramping), Cumin, Davana, Fenugreek, Helichrysum, Lemon, Myrtle, Ravensara, Rosemary, Spanish Sage, Spruce

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