Hirsutism is excessive body hair in men and women on parts of the body where hair is normally absent or minimal. It may refer to a 'male' pattern of hair growth that may be a sign of a more serious medical condition, especially if it develops well after puberty. Cultural stigma against hirsutism can cause much psychological distress and social difficulty. Facial hirsutism often leads to the avoidance of social situations and to symptoms of anxiety and depression.Hirsutism is usually the result of ...

hirsutism

What-are-hormones?

What are hormones? 

What-are-hormones?_0_0

Hormones are chemicals that coordinate various functions in your body, carrying messages through the blood to organs, skin, muscles, and other tissues. These signals tell your body exactly what to do and when to do it. So far, scientists have identified over 50 hormones in the human body that regulate these processes in both men and women.

What-are-hormones?_0_1

Hormones and most of the tissues (mainly glands) that create and release them make up the endocrine system. Hormones control many different bodily processes, including:

What-are-hormones?_0_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Metabolism</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Homeostasis (constant internal balance), such as regulation of blood pressure and blood sugar, fluid balance (water) and electrolytes, and body temperature</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Growth and development</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reproductive function</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sleep-wake cycle</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Mood&nbsp;</li></ul>Characteristic of hormones is that their levels naturally vary at different stages of life, most noticeably during puberty and in women during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause. They can also be affected by lifestyle and certain medical conditions.

What-are-hormones?_0_3

What is important is to know what are the symptoms pointing to hormonal imbalance and which you should not ignore.&nbsp;

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-men-and-women

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance in men and women

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-men-and-women_1_0

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance can vary depending on which gland is affected and whether it is a man or a woman.

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-women

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance in women 

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-women_2_0

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-women_2_1

In women, symptoms of hormonal imbalance usually include: 1

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-women_2_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Mood swings - the female sex hormone estrogen has an effect on neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin (a chemical that boosts mood). Fluctuations in estrogen can cause premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or depressed mood during perimenopause (the phase before menstruation stops completely) and menopause.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reproductive problems hormonal imbalance is one of the leading causes of female infertility, and with changing hormone levels, a woman's fertility naturally declines after the age of 35. High levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can reduce a woman's chances of getting pregnant, while low levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulates the ovaries to release an egg and start producing progesterone, can also cause fertility problems.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Irregular menstrual cycle, pain in the abdomen or back during menstruation - if the irregular cycle is accompanied by other symptoms such as abdominal pain, frequent need to urinate, pain in the lower back, constipation or painful intercourse, then there may be fibroids. Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. An examination at a gynecologist can confirm or reject this diagnosis.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Low libido - weak or absent libido is especially common in women going through perimenopause or menopause due to falling estrogen and testosterone levels (although it is known as the male hormone, women also have testosterone).</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Insomnia During perimenopause and menopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, which promotes a full night's sleep. A decrease in estrogen levels can also contribute to night sweats, which disrupt sleep.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Unexplained weight gain or weight loss A number of hormone-related conditions can cause weight gain, including decreased thyroid function, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and menopause. 2</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bone fragility - A decrease in estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause in women can cause bone loss, respectively, an increased risk of bone fragility.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hirsutism or excessive body hair - this symptom is associated with increased levels of androgenic hormones such as androstenedione and others.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Skin problems Chronic acne in adults may be a sign of low estrogen and progesterone levels and high levels of androgenic hormones, and may also indicate polycystic ovary syndrome in ladies. Similarly, hormonal imbalance during pregnancy or menopause can cause itchy skin, while dry skin is a symptom of menopause or thyroid problems.</li></ul>

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-women_2_3

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-men

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance in men 

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-men_3_0

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-men_3_1

Hormonal imbalance symptoms in men can be the following and are usually due to reduced testosterone levels: 3

Symptoms-of-hormonal-imbalance-in-men_3_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Decrease in sexual desire.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Erectile dysfunction.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Loss of muscle mass.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Thinning hair and reduced growth.</li></ul>

Causes-of-hormonal-imbalance

Causes of hormonal imbalance 

Causes-of-hormonal-imbalance_4_0

Causes-of-hormonal-imbalance_4_1

There are several main causes of hormonal imbalance. First, medical conditions, as well as medications or treatments for these conditions, can affect your hormones.

Causes-of-hormonal-imbalance_4_2

For example, some treatments for breast cancer may reduce estrogen levels, while Cushing's syndrome or Addison's disease are characterized by too high or too low (respectively) levels of the hormone cortisol.&nbsp;

Causes-of-hormonal-imbalance_4_3

Other causes of hormonal imbalance may include type 1 and 2 diabetes, hypoglycemia, and thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. In women, conditions such as menopause or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause hormonal fluctuations. In men, hypogonadism can lead to low hormone levels. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.endocrine.org/~/media/endosociety/files/ep/rphr/57/rphr_vol_57_ch_12_hormonal_changes.pdf" target="_blank" data-ref="" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

Causes-of-hormonal-imbalance_4_4

Other causes include injury, trauma, or eating disorders. In fact, one of the most common causes of hormonal imbalance, however, is stress - which, unfortunately, is not unknown to anyone.

In case of symptoms of hormonal imbalance, it is important to seek medical attention to do the necessary tests. Then determine the mode of treatment and therapy, which may include hormone replacement therapy, medications, herbal and other means. We will talk about them in another article, looking at the possibilities of using herbs and natural remedies for hormonal imbalance.

Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance - What you need to know (part 1)

https://sanatio.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/86af1c85-7e4e-4c25-9057-ac035d3c9811_middle.jpg

Бетина Цветкова

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)

What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_0

Polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance in which the ovaries (the organs that produce and release eggs) are affected, creating an excess of male hormones. If you have PCOS, your ovaries produce abnormally high levels of hormones called androgens. This leads to an imbalance of reproductive hormones and disrupts the entire hormonal background in the body, leading to other health problems and disorders.&nbsp;

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_1

As a result, women with polycystic ovary syndrome often have an irregular menstrual cycle, miss monthly menstruation or have unpredictable ovulation. Small cysts can develop on the ovaries (fluid-filled bags) due to lack of ovulation (anovulation). However, although the name of the condition is 'achievable', you do not necessarily have cysts on your ovaries to develop PCOS. The condition can develop without them.

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_2

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_3

Some of the most important facts regarding polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that you need to know are:

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_4

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Many women suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome without being aware of it. A study shows that up to 70% of women suffering from this disease are not diagnosed. [&nbsp;<a href="https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/102/2/604/2972079" target="_blank" data-ref="Delayed Diagnosis and a Lack of Information Associated With Dissatisfaction in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;]&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A woman can develop PCOS at any time after puberty. Most women are diagnosed in their 20s or 30s when trying to get pregnant. Research shows that polycystic ovary syndrome is transmitted by inheritance. [&nbsp;<a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1385/ENDO:30:1:19?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=b5683b1b-1b01-46cc-ad97-682a72958184" target="_blank" data-ref="The role of genes and environment in the etiology of PCOS - Endocrine" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">You may have a higher chance of developing PCOS if you are overweight or obese, or if other people in your family have PCOS. [&nbsp;<a href="https://academic.oup.com/jes/article/3/8/1545/5518341" target="_blank" data-ref="Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Pathophysiology, Presentation, and Treatment With Emphasis on Adolescent Girls" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;]&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rotterdam criteria have been established, according to which "Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is determined by the presence of two out of three of the following criteria: oligoanovulation, hyperandrogenism and polycystic ovaries (&ge; 12 follicles with a diameter of 2-9 mm and/or ovarian volume 10 ml in at least one ovary)." [&nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ajum.12096" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;] together with ultrasound examination and other diagnostic methods, they can facilitate better and early diagnosis of PCOS, reducing health risks.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">About 70% of women with polycystic ovary syndrome have insulin resistance, which means that their cells cannot use insulin properly. [&nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0015028211028123" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;] Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. It helps the body use sugar from food to generate energy. When cells do not consume insulin properly<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3277302/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">, the body's need for it increases</a>. The pancreas produces more insulin to compensate for this. Excess insulin causes the ovaries to produce more androgens (male hormones).</li></ul>

The-most-popular-symptoms-of-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)

The most popular symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

The-most-popular-symptoms-of-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_1_0

Some women face symptoms around their first cycle. Others found they had ovarian cancer after gaining a lot of extra weight or having difficulty conceiving. Imbalance in the menstrual cycle can also be a signal that a woman suffers from PCOS.

The-most-popular-symptoms-of-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_1_1

The most common symptoms of this disease are:

The-most-popular-symptoms-of-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_1_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Irregular menstruation. The absence of ovulation interferes with the monthly discharge of the surface layer of the uterine mucosa (endometrium). Some women with polycystic have less than eight menstruations per year, and there are cases in which the menstrual cycle is completely absent. [ <a href="https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome" target="_blank" data-ref="Polycystic ovary syndrome | Office on Women's Health" rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;]&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Severe bleeding. The endometrium becomes more massive, therefore the menstruations are heavier than usual.&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">More than 70% of women with this disease have facial hair appearing at unusual areas of the body - back, abdomen, breasts. Excessive body hair in these areas is called hirsutism. [&nbsp;<a href="http://www.eurekaselect.com/article/77195" target="_blank" data-ref="Hirsutism in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Pathophysiology and Management" rel="noopener">[ref. 7]</a>&nbsp;]</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Acne. Male hormones (androgens) can make the skin oilier than usual and cause skin imperfections in areas such as the face, chest and upper back.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Weight gain. Up to 80 percent of women with PCOS are overweight or obese, as cited by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos?utm_source=redirect&amp;utm_medium=web&amp;utm_campaign=otn" target="_blank" data-ref="Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)" rel="noopener">[ref. 8]</a>&nbsp;]&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Male pattern&nbsp;baldness. Hair on the scalp becomes thinner and can fall out more.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Darkening of the skin. Dark spots on the skin can form in folds on the body, such as those of the neck, in the groin and under the chest.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Headache. Hormonal changes can cause headaches in some women.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Low-grade inflammation: Women with PCOS tend to have chronic low-legrade inflammation. The healthcare professional you are targeting can perform blood tests that measure levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cells to check for such inflammation in the body.</li></ul>

Herbal-treatments-for-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)

Herbal treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Herbal-treatments-for-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_2_0

According to a study conducted by Iranian and German scientists, published on June 3, 2019 [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2218-273X/9/6/215" target="_blank" data-ref="The Effectiveness of Herbal Mixture Supplements with and without Clomiphene Citrate in Comparison to Clomiphene Citrate on Serum Antioxidants and Glycemic Biomarkers in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Willing to Be Pregnant: A Randomized Clinical Trial" rel="noopener">[ref. 9]</a>&nbsp;], supplements from herbal mixtures, in combination with clomiphene citrate (CC), have a beneficial effect on serum antioxidant levels, as well as on glycaemic biomarkers in polycystic ovary syndrome, causing infertility, regulation of menstruation and successful conception.&nbsp;

Herbal-treatments-for-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_2_1

The herbs studied are:&nbsp;

Herbal-treatments-for-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_2_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Mint (Mentha spicata) [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14450" target="_blank" data-ref="Mentha" rel="noopener">[ref. 10]</a>&nbsp;]&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ginger (Zingiber officinale) [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Zingiber_officinale_ginger_Monograph_12946242" target="_blank" data-ref="Zingiber officinale (ginger). Monograph. | Билкови и природни лекарства" rel="noopener">[ref. 11]</a>&nbsp;]&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/15249" target="_blank" data-ref="Cinnamomum zeylanicum" rel="noopener">[ref. 12]</a>&nbsp;]&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814612011533?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" data-ref="Role of Essential Oil of Mentha Spicata (Spearmint) in Addressing Reverse Hormonal and Folliculogenesis Disturbances in a Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in a Rat Model - PubMed" rel="noopener">) [</a>&nbsp;[ref. 13]&nbsp;</li></ul>Next, we will take a brief overview of the main health-friendly properties of each of these herbs.

Beneficial-properties-of-herbs-in-PCOS-and-other-health-conditions

Beneficial properties of herbs in PCOS and other health conditions

Mint-(Mentha-spicata)

Mint (Mentha spicata) 

Mint-(Mentha-spicata)_3_0

Mentha spicata (mint) of the Lamiaceae family, a widespread plant in the temperate belt has anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and anticancer effect [&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29399556/" target="_blank" data-ref="Preventive and Protective Properties of Zingiber officinale (Ginger) in Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetic Complications, and Associated Lipid and Other Metabolic Disorders: A Brief Review" rel="noopener">[ref. 14]</a>&nbsp;. Some studies confirm that mint contains various volatile compounds such as p-cimen, isopiperitone, mentone and &beta;-linalool and various phenolic phytocompositions, which are not only considered an antioxidant source, but also reduce glucose levels and oxidative stress.

Mint-(Mentha-spicata)_3_1

Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale)

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale)_3_0

The main components of Zingiber officinale Roscoe - a representative of the Zingiberaceae family, are zingiberene, campen and p-cinaol, which show antioxidant, anticancer, anti-clotting and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, ginger significantly reduces serum fasting blood sugar levels and insulin levels, contributes to blood pressure control and supports intestinal health. In vitro and in vivo studies confirm that ginger increases levels of SOD (superoxide dismutase), CAT (catalase) and GPX (glutathione peroxidase), as well as increases the antioxidant capacity in the blood. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2012/516870/" target="_blank" data-ref="Preventive and Protective Properties of Zingiber officinale (Ginger) in Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetic Complications, and Associated Lipid and Other Metabolic Disorders: A Brief Review" rel="noopener">[ref. 15]</a>&nbsp;]

Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale)_3_1

Ceylon-cinnamon-(Cinnamomum-zeylanicum)

Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) 

Ceylon-cinnamon-(Cinnamomum-zeylanicum)_3_0

Cinnamomum zeylanicum nees (Cinnamon) from the Lauraceae family is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties [&nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0278691507000889" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 16]</a>&nbsp;]. Cinnamon extract can be used as an antioxidant due to its phenolic content, especially cynamaldehyde, which improves the level of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase, and reduces the concentration of MDA (malonal dialdehyde), as well as increases the possibility of becoming pregnant. In addition, it significantly reduces insulin and blood sugar, which is obviously key in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Ceylon-cinnamon-(Cinnamomum-zeylanicum)_3_1

Sweet-Orange-(Citrus-sinensis)

Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)

Sweet-Orange-(Citrus-sinensis)_3_0

Citrus Sinensis (L.) Osbeck of the Rutaceae family contains mainly hesperidine, polymetoxylated flavonoids and terpenoids (&nbsp; citric and linalool). These phenolic bioactive compounds show significant cytoprotective effects (protecting cells) against oxidative stress created by free radicals. In addition, hesperidine in C. sinensis increases levels of antioxidants, including superoxide dismutase and catalase, and reduces the level of malonal dialdehyde.&nbsp;

Sweet-Orange-(Citrus-sinensis)_3_1

According to the results of a team of scientists who conducted a randomized blind study on the effectiveness of herbal extracts in PCOS, the herbal mixture of four components - mint, ginger, Ceylon cinnamon and sweet orange, demonstrated powerful antioxidant activity. It is due to the total content of phenols and flavonoids. As the study shows, supplements from herbal mixtures, together with clomiphene citrate, can have a beneficial effect on serum antioxidant levels, as well as on glycaemic biomarkers of infertility in PCOS, regulating menstruation and increasing the chance of becoming pregnant. Ginger with a wide range of antioxidants and polyphenol compounds such as β-carotene, ascorbic acid, terpenoids, alkaloids, and polyphenols such as flavonoids, flavon glycosides, is considered the richest source of phytochemical antioxidants. Phenolic phytochemicals of mint significantly improve antioxidant protection. The bark of C. sinensis is also very rich in phenolic compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can be consumed as natural antioxidants. These natural remedies can help with a variety of health problems, including overweight, impaired immunity, high blood pressure and obesity, as well as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Effectiveness of herbal supplements in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

https://sanatio.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/bf526fdd-d624-4050-a04a-4e722c5c6b3a_middle.jpg

Effectiveness of herbal supplements in polycystic ovary syndrome 

About-Spearmint-(Mentha-spicata)

About Spearmint (Mentha spicata)

About-Spearmint-(Mentha-spicata)_0_0

About-Spearmint-(Mentha-spicata)_0_1

Spearmint&nbsp;(Mentha spicata) or sweet mint is an aromatic herb of the Mint family (Lamiaceae), widely used for culinary purposes. It is best grown in a pot as it blooms abundantly. This type of mint (M. spicata) differs from other species in its smooth and almost stationary leaves. [ref.1]&nbsp;

About-Spearmint-(Mentha-spicata)_0_2

Scientifically studied the content and some properties of the jogger, for example, it has pharmacological actions against fever, cough, infections and inflammation in the body. [ref.2] Based on the total content of compounds, the mint has a high kempferol content and derivatives of ivercetin, L-carvon, citric and over 40 other compounds.&nbsp;

About-Spearmint-(Mentha-spicata)_0_3

The mint and other representatives of Lamiaceae have been used for centuries in several holistic medical systems, including Ayurveda, Unani and Chinese traditional medicine. Ayurveda strongly advocates the effectiveness of mint tea to alleviate gastrointestinal problems, soothe stomach aches and colic in infants and treat irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal cramps and flatulence.

Amazing-health-benefits-of-jogger-tea

Amazing health benefits of jogger tea

Amazing-health-benefits-of-jogger-tea_1_0

Mint tea has a light and refreshing taste. It is less intense than other types of mint tea, as it contains less ionol and a little more lemon. Mint tea is also lighter for peristalsis, usually made&nbsp; from dried leaves or fresh leaves torn from the plant and soaked in hot water. Unlike other known types of tea, which may contain caffeine, there is no oxidation process here and no caffeine is contained.

Useful-for-digestive-disorders

Useful for digestive disorders

Useful-for-digestive-disorders_1_0

Useful-for-digestive-disorders_1_1

Mint is traditionally used to relieve symptoms of indigestion, nausea, vomiting and flatulence. It has been proven that the compound (-)-carvon, which is found naturally in mint plants, including in the jogger, strongly inhibits muscle contractions in the digestive tract. This is one of the mechanisms by which this herb helps relieve digestive disorders. [ref.3]

High-in-antioxidants

High in antioxidants

High-in-antioxidants_1_0

Antioxidants are natural chemical compounds found in plants that help protect and repair damage caused by free radicals. Mint contains a large number of antioxidant compounds, including rosemary acid, flavons and flavanones such as citric and thnithyl, which contribute to the antioxidant protection of the body. [ref.4]

Influence-on-hormonal-imbalance

Influence on hormonal imbalance

Influence-on-hormonal-imbalance_1_0

For women with hormonal imbalance, mint tea can provide some relief. Studies in women have shown that jogging can reduce male hormones such as testosterone, while increasing the female hormones needed for ovulation, such as luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol. [ref.5]

Reducing-facial-hair-in-women

Reducing facial hair in women

Reducing-facial-hair-in-women_1_0

Drinking mint tea can help reduce hirsutism (excessive hair androgen-dependent areas in women) or the growth of dark, coarse hairs on the face, chest and abdomen in women.

Can-improve-memory

Can improve memory

Can-improve-memory_1_0

There is some evidence that mint can help improve memory. A limited number of studies have shown that mice that received mint extract had improved learning and memory. How well it works in humans should be established in the additional studies, since we came across only one such. In a more recent study, older people with impaired memory who received daily supplements containing 900 mg. had a 15% improvement in working memory. [ref.6]

Can-improve-memory_1_1

Fights-bacterial-infections

Fights bacterial infections 

Fights-bacterial-infections_1_0

Mint is a popular air freshener in toothpastes, mouth fresheners and chewing gum. In addition, it has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that can help destroy bacteria in the mouth. Mint essential oil has been found to be effective against several types of harmful bacteria, including E. coli and Listeria.

How-to-make-mint-tea

How to make mint tea

How-to-make-mint-tea_2_0

Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, all vitamins of group B and iron, potassium, calcium, mint tea has great nutritional value, low calories and a pleasant aroma. Here's how to prepare it:

How-to-make-mint-tea_2_1

<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Choose your type of tea – either fresh leaves, from loose leaves or a mixture of mint tea.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Place your tea in the park and add it to your cup (if making fresh tea from leaves about 5-7 leaves per glass of water is enough)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Prepare the water in a saucepan or kettle&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pour your tea with the water and leave to steam for 5-8 minutes depending on whether you like light and delicate to taste or stronger.</li></ol>

Healthy, naturally sweet and decaf, mint tea is a real pleasure for the mind and soul, and sweet mint essential oil has a sweet body-invigorating aroma. Tea is great for balancing hormones, treating digestive problems, reducing pain and stress, and essential oil - for refreshing and giving energy.

Mint (Mentha spicata) - amazing benefits of tea and essential oil of sweet mint

https://sanatio.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/255e7300-cb13-42d1-bfe8-7f37a9865951_middle.jpg

Mint (Mentha spicata) - amazing benefits of tea and essential oil 

_-1_0

Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

_-1_1

_-1_2

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that in 2012, 116 million women (3.4%) worldwide suffered from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Worldwide, estimates of the prevalence of PCOS are highly variable, ranging from 2.2% to 26%. [<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1110569016301510#b0005" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref. 1</a>] It is estimated that in the United States alone, between 5% and 10% of women of childbearing potential have this problem. [<a href="https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref. 2</a>]

_-1_3

Women with polycystic ovaries have hormonal imbalances and metabolic problems that can affect their health. The condition is common in women of childbearing potential and may include symptoms such as irregular menstruation, acne, thinning hair and weight gain.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common health problem caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones.

Polycystic ovary syndrome can cause omission or irregular menstruation, which can lead to:

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Infertility (inability to get pregnant) - PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility in women, but with proper medical intervention, a woman can still become pregnant - sometimes even without intervention.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Development of cysts (small fluid-filled bags) in the ovaries.</li>
</ul>

Usually, a woman understands that she suffers from the syndrome when she visits her gynecologist after unsuccessful attempts to becomepregnant.

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_5

How do cysts form? If this happens, the body may not be able to synthesize the hormone progesterone, which is needed to maintain a regular cycle, as well as to hold the pregnancy.

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_6

In addition, women with PCOS produce an excess of the female sex hormone estrogen. Although this does not contribute to the observed symptoms, in the long run this may prove to be a major risk factor for the development of uterinecancer. [<a href="https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/fertility-blog/2020/march/five-myths-about-pcos" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref. 4</a>]

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_7

Some of the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome include:

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_8

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Irregular menstrual cycle. Women with the syndrome may miss their menstruation sporadically or have fewer menstrual cycles (less than eight per year). Or menstruation may occur every 21 days or more often. In some women with PCOS, menstruation completely stops.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Too much hair on the face, chin or male type of hair. This is called hirsutism. Hirsutism affects up to 70% of women with venous ovaries.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Acne on the face, chest and upper back.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Thinning of hair or hair loss; male baldness.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Weight gain or difficulty losing weight.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Darkening of the skin ,especially on thefolds of the neck, in the groin and under the chest.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Skin formationssimilar to warts. They are soft, with the color of the skin and appear in the armpits or neck area.</li>
</ul>

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_9

The exact cause of the development of ovarian cancer is unknown. Most experts believe that several factors, including genetics, play a role:

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_10

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">High levels of androgens. Androgens are sometimes called "male hormones", although each woman's body normally synthesizes small amounts of them. Androgens control the development of male traits. Women with PCOS have more androgens than normal.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">High levels of insulin. Insulin is a hormone As a result, the levels of this hormone in the blood become higher than normal. Many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, especially those who are overweight or obese, unhealthy eating habits, insufficient physical activity or have a family history of diabetes (usually type 2 <a href="/p/vsichko_za_diabiet_tip_2_na_iedno_miasto_9b1be4d6_84a7_42c6_8e37_de3bd6480ba1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a> diabetes).</li>
</ul>

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_11

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_12

How is the diagnosis made? In order to be diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, it is necessary to exclude other causes of the patient's symptoms. The doctor will be interested in her medical history to date and will do a physical examination, as well as various studies:

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_13

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Physical examination. The doctor will ask about the body mass index (BM) and waist size, whether there is excess hair, acne or discolouration of the skin on the face, chest or back.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Pelvic examination. The doctor may look for visible signs of increased levels of male hormones (e.g. enlarged clitoris) and check if the ovaries are enlarged or swollen.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Ultrasound of the pelvis (sonogram). This test uses ultrasound waves to examine the ovaries for cysts and to check the endometrium (lining of the uterus).</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Blood tests. Blood tests check the levels of androgenic hormones. The doctor will also order a test for hormones associated with other common health problems that can be confused with polycystic ovary syndrome, such as thyroid disease.</li>
</ul>

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_14

If we are overweightor obese , the first and most important step is to make efforts to lose weight. Healthy eating habits and regular physical activity can help alleviate symptoms associated withpolycystic ovary syndrome.

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_15

Weight loss can help lower blood sugar levels,improve the way the body uses insulin, and normalize hormonelevels. Even 10% body weight loss can regulate the menstrual cycle and improve the chances of getting pregnant.

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_16

What-is-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-(PCOS)_0_17

The relationship between weight and PCOS is related to the body's inability to use insulin correctly , which can lead to weightgain.

What-is-insulin-resistance

What is insulin resistance

What-is-insulin-resistance_1_0

Insulin is a hormone It helps glucose in the blood to enter the cells of muscle and fat tissue and of the liver, where it is used for energy. Glucose comes from the food we eat. The liver also produces glucose when needed, for example, when we are starving. When the blood sugar level rises after a meal, the pancreas releases insulin into theblood.

What-is-insulin-resistance_1_1

With insulin resistance, cells do not react normally to insulin and cannot easily absorb glucose from theblood.

What-is-insulin-resistance_1_2

If this does not happen, a prediabetic condition occurs. In this case, blood sugar levels are higher thannormal, but not high enough to diagnose diabetes.

What-is-insulin-resistance_1_3

What-is-insulin-resistance_1_4

Prediabetes are usually found in people who already have some insulin resistance or whose beta cells in the pancreas do not produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar within normal limits. Without enough insulin, additional glucose remains in the blood instead of entering the cells and being used for energy. Over time, type <a href="/p/vsichko_za_diabiet_tip_2_na_iedno_miasto_9b1be4d6_84a7_42c6_8e37_de3bd6480ba1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">2 diabetes may develop.</a>

What-is-insulin-resistance_1_5

Researchers still do not fully understand the causes of insulin resistance and prediabetes, but believe that excess weight and lack of physical activity are also major factors in this case.

What-is-insulin-resistance_1_6

It is believed that obesity - especially too much fat in the abdomen and around organscalled visceral fat - is a major cause of insulin resistance. Waist circumference above 100 cm in men and over 89 cm in women is often associated with the onset of insulin resistance. This is true even if the body mass index (BM) falls within normal limits. [<a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetes/prediabetes-insulin-resistance" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref. 5</a>]

What-is-insulin-resistance_1_7

Fat does not only serve to store energy. Research has shown that belly fat synthesizes hormones and other substances that can contribute to the onset of chronic or long-term inflammation in the body.

What-is-insulin-resistance_1_8

In turn, insufficient physical activity is also associated with insulin resistance and prediabetes. As already mentioned, regular physical activity leads to changes in the body that make it more able to maintain the balance of glucose levels in the blood.

hirsutism

Effectiveness of herbal supplements in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Mint (Mentha spicata) - amazing benefits of tea and essential oil of sweet mint

The relationship between polycystic ovary syndrome, insulin resistance and infertility