Natural medicines offer women some of the best alternatives to pressing health issues. These include treatment of PMS, menstrual irregularities, menopause, and female cancers. Many alternative philosophies believe that women are ruled by their blood. It is imperative that this vital fluid, blood, is healthy. What this means is that even though women may not be anemic or blood deficient according to a standard blood test, she may still be lacking in blood nutrients for her individual needs.

Proper nutrition is the best way for woman, or anyone, to build their body. The right balance of good fats, quality protein, minerals and good carbohydrates are important. A woman must work with her constitutional patterns, and be able to incorporate them with her lifestyle, genetic disposition, exercise patterns, and diet preferences. Many women eat well but they might not be eating the right energetic or types of foods for optimal benefits to their individuality. Ways to build the blood from food are: lean organic red meats, abundant sea, green and root vegetables, brewer’s yeast and eggs. Fats that are beneficial include flax seed oil, evening primrose oil, and fish liver oils. Carbohydrates including whole grains like barley, millet, basmati rice, and sweet potatoes or squash give your body energy. Fermented foods, Ginseng and iron building tonics from plants and herbs are also very powerful.

Pre –menstrual syndrome can be regulated by moving energy of the liver and strengthening the spleen and kidneys. Acupuncture, moxibustion, and homeopathy are also very beneficial. They have the potential to increase the spleens strength and assist the liver and its ability to maintain mental balance. Other treatments for menopausal women can be progesterone creams and many phytoestrogens (plants that mimic estrogen activity). Homeopathic and herbal remedies can be used without side effects and instead of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).

Sherri D’Alessio is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Nutritionist, and Homeopath at A Place for Health in Vero Beach. A Place for health offers a wide selection of natural and organic foods, body care products and many alternative healthcare treatments including acupuncture, massage, herbal medicine, and bio meridian testing. For more information call 772-567-6700.