By: Shelagh McNally for Fibroids1In the age of advanced technology and countless medical therapies, some view herbal remedies as whimsical solutions that are out of step with our modern world. But for some women suffering from uterine fibroids, ancient herbal solutions are offering relief.
Although between 10 and 20 percent of America women suffer from fibroids, they are actually not a modern malady. The first written description and treatment for fibroids can be found in the Chinese book, Ling Shu, dating back to 100 BC. For centuries, Chinese doctors have been using the herbs listed in Ling Shu to treat uterine fibroids. The underlying premise is that menstrual problems are linked to a liver imbalance, the organ responsible for a balanced circulation of blood. When the liver becomes blocked or sluggish, the result can be menstrual problems that include fibroids. The herbal remedy most often used is known as Xiao Yao Wan, Xiao Liu Pian or Xiao Liu Fang and may contain up to 14 different herbs, including rhubarb and ginseng. A 1992 study completed at the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (CATCM) and published in the Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of herbal treatment. Researchers Jiang Xinglei and Luo Xianchu tracked ultrasounds results of 30 women (ages 26 to 50) while they were being treated with the herbal formula Xiao Liu Pian. Each patient received a 0.3 gram herbal tablet three times a day for three months. At the end of the trial, 15 of the subjects had either substantial or total fibroid shrinkage, while an additional 13 had some degree of fibroid shrinkage. In 98 percent of the women, typical fibroid symptoms like excessive bleeding, abdominal pain and bloating virtually stopped.
The growing interest in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has prompted many American research facilities to initiate clinical studies. One of the leading researchers is The Rosenthal Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, based at Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine. Researchers there are currently compiling findings from Rosenthal’s three-year study, Herbal Therapies for Women’s Health. Its sister institute at Shanghai’s Fudan University is also conducting ongoing research.
It’s not just America noticing herbal remedies either. Recently, the British Pharmacopoeia Commission started developing new monographs for Chinese herbs to be included in their prescription base. And in early 2006, Germany granted the first traditional herbal medicinal product registration in the EU. More choices for women will be the result.
Like any herbal remedy, self-administration is not recommended. Consult with your doctor first and be sure to find a legitimate TCM practitioner. A registered acupuncturist will be able to help you. It is important to remember that while herbal remedies are often less expensive, they can take longer than prescription medicine to take effect.
